Alupo tips Katakwi leaders on championing economic empowerment, peace

KATAKWI - Vice-President Jessica Alupo Epel has urged church leaders to take a proactive role in promoting economic empowerment, peace and unity within their communities.

Speaking at a missions conference organised by the Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) at Katakwi Technical School, Alupo emphasised that peace and unity are vital pillars for sustainable development.

“Peace and unity are crucial for economic growth and healthy livelihoods,” she said on May 16, 2025, thanking President Yoweri Museveni for his efforts in maintaining stability in the region.

Alupo underscored the role of religious leaders in fostering social cohesion and urged them to leverage the prevailing peace to encourage economic growth.

She highlighted key government interventions such as improved road networks, electricity, and ICT services, saying these have the potential to transform communities.

“Church leaders can preach a gospel of development by promoting government programmes aimed at economic transformation,” she added.

Alupo also called on the church to guide young people towards positive values and shield them from harmful influences.

“Our youth need direction. We must teach them discipline, inspire them to follow good role models and encourage them to be responsible citizens,” she said.

Addressing the issue of girl child education, Alupo raised concerns over early marriages and teenage pregnancies, urging faith leaders to keep advocating for education for all, especially girls.

“Every girl child deserves access to quality education and the opportunity to reach her full potential,” she stressed, encouraging support for government programs such as Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE).

Alupo commended President Museveni for initiating the construction of specialised hospitals in Katakwi and Lwengo districts, which she said would greatly improve healthcare delivery. She also highlighted plans for an international airport in Kidepo, which she said would unlock tourism and create new economic opportunities.

Praise and commitment

PAG lead pastor Moses Okiror appreciated Alupo’s consistent support and involvement in the church's activities.

“We are grateful for your leadership and support. Your presence here is a testament to your commitment to the Church and the welfare of our people,” Okiror said.

Bishop John Robert Odukatum, from the North Teso pastorate, thanked the Vice-President for her donation of four bags of posho and beans, along with a bull valued at over shillings two million. He described the gesture as a blessing that would significantly support the church community.

Continued peace

Katakwi Deputy Resident District Commissioner Xavier Okwii emphasized the importance of peace during electoral periods. He encouraged church leaders to continue promoting unity and stability, especially ahead of future elections.

“We’ve had peaceful village elections. Let’s keep this spirit alive,” he said, urging religious leaders to shape community attitudes towards peaceful coexistence.

Among the conference attendees was Joan Aumo, a youth representative from Kumi district, who thanked Alupo for championing environmental conservation.

“I’m inspired by her call to plant trees. As a Christian youth, I encourage others to attend such conferences and learn,” Aumo said.

Florence Alupo, also from Kumi, praised the Vice President’s emphasis on tradition and culture.

“Her teachings have helped me understand the value of preserving Iteso heritage. I’ve learned so much,” she noted.