By Steven Enatu
SOROTI CITY
The Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) has approved an ambitious 15M USD equivalent to 55.5 billion UGX architectural plan for the construction of Ere Iteso, a cultural center that will stand as a landmark in Teso.
Designed by Oubuntu Architectural Designs, the seven-storyed structure will house the offices of the Emorimor, cabinet ministers, a community hall, and a museum. This was done on Wednesday, 13th November, 2024 at ICU offices.
This milestone project according to Emmanuel Emechu, the architect with Oubuntu is inspired by traditional Teso arts, aims to create a legacy expected to last over 100 years if materials remain uncompromised. Oubuntu will also oversee the construction.
Dr. Charles Peter Otim, chairperson of the committee established in December last year to lead the project, emphasized that this plan is the first major step toward realizing the Ere Iteso vision.
Once approved by city authorities, the groundbreaking is anticipated to occur on November 27, with the Army Engineering Brigade undertaking the construction.
Nosianta Emechu, ICU Council chairperson, urged clan leaders to mobilize resources for the project. Expressing her excitement, she praised the ICU council, cabinet, and committee for their dedicated efforts.
To cover costs, ICU will launch a local and international fundraising campaign, said Dr. Pascal Osire, vice chairperson of the committee.
Government support includes 250 million UGX from the Ministry of Teso Affairs and an additional 1.5 million USD (around 6 billion UGX) from the Ministry of Gender.
According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), there are approximately 3.7 million Iteso. If each person contributed an equivalent of 3,700 UGX (1 USD), this could raise 14 billion UGX toward the project, a proposal gaining strong support among Iteso leaders like Francis Eriaku.
The Ere Iteso cultural center will be constructed on a one-hectare plot opposite Soroti Hotel, marking a new chapter in preserving and celebrating Iteso heritage.
