Teso mourns cultural icon Oyoka
Oyoka, 88, affectionately known as Iyoka, died on Thursday, May 14, 2025, leaving a legacy of cultural preservation and promotion.
William Oyoka during his last appearance at Ateker festival in Soroti city. (Photos by Godfrey Ojore)
By Godfrey Ojore
Journalists @New Vision
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The Teso community is mourning William Oyoka, a celebrated cultural performer and guardian of Iteso traditions.
Oyoka, 88, affectionately known as Iyoka, died on Thursday, May 14, 2025, leaving a legacy of cultural preservation and promotion.
Through his vibrant performances and innovative approach, Oyoka kept Iteso culture alive, even as Western influences threatened to erode traditional practices.
His love for culture was palpable, and his iconic dress code became a symbol of Teso's rich heritage.
William Oyoka (right) posing for a picture with his friend Washington Ebinu in November last year after Ateker cultural performance.
As a master of the Ajosi dance, Oyoka brought communities together through mesmerising performances at traditional marriage ceremonies, funeral rites and official functions.
His dedication to cultural preservation earned him widespread respect and his dance group became a benchmark for cultural excellence.
"His passing is a dark week for Teso," Jorem Opian Obicho, an elder from Gweri, said, "he managed to recruit youth to his dance group, ensuring the survival of Ajosi dance."
Oyoka's impact extended beyond Teso, with performances in Kenya and Moroto, showcasing the region's cultural richness. His team also entertained President Yoweri Museveni at the Ateker Cultural Festival last November.
Oyoka's eldest son, Juma Oriokot, attributed his father's passing to complications from an aneurysm and diabetes.
Oyoka will be laid to rest today, May 16, at his ancestral home in Orapada, Gweri county, Soroti district.
The community mourns the loss of a cultural icon, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.