ICU to Launch Annual Cultural Festival to Preserve Traditional Foods and Boost Tourism in Teso
Katakwi District is gearing up for a vibrant cultural celebration this Easter weekend as the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU) launches the first-ever Ecomai Festival at Lake Opeta in Magoro Sub-county.
The two-day event, happening on Friday and Saturday, will showcase traditional Teso food, music, games, and cultural practices, with a special focus on Ecomai — a beloved yet increasingly rare traditional dish in Teso.
Ecomai to Be Preserved as a Cultural Heritage
The Prime Minister of ICU announced that the festival will now be held annually every Easter as a way to preserve and promote Ecomai and other cultural elements. He emphasized that Ecomai is rich in nutrients and has contributed to the good health and longevity of people in Katakwi.
“Ecomai is a unique traditional dish that defines who we are as Iteso,” said the Prime Minister. “We are now gazetting it as a traditional plant for the Iteso community and will support its cultivation for generations to come.”
What to Expect at the Festival
The Friday evening program will begin with a traditional Etem (bonfire) where a respected elder will light the fire. Guests will enjoy:
- Goat roasting & local brew tasting
- Traditional dances like Ajosi and Akogo
- Storytelling and cultural education
- Live performances by local artists
On Saturday, the focus will shift to nature and traditional cuisine, with activities including:
- Sport fishing & boat cruising
- Birdwatching rare species like the Shoebill (Ekurududu)
- Traditional food tasting (Ecomai paste, Akobokobo, Eboo, Eedo, etc.)
- Ceremonial planting of Ecomai
Cultural Revival and Tourism Boost
ICU Information Minister Mr. Ojacor encouraged Iteso across Uganda and beyond to embrace their roots. “This is the time for us to protect our heritage and teach the younger generation,” he said. “Our traditional foods are not just cultural symbols—they’re medicinal and promote strong health.”
He praised Toto Akaliat for spearheading the Ecomai Festival idea through her cultural education programs for young women.
Tourism Minister Mr. Ojatum added that the event will help grow Teso’s tourism industry by spotlighting local attractions like Kapelboyong Mass Graves and Ngero Rock Paintings.
Festival Grand Finale
The Ecomai Festival will be crowned by cultural leaders Papa Emorimor and Toto Akaliat, making it a truly historic event for the Iteso community.
Stay tuned to TesoTalents.com for live coverage, photos, and updates from the Ecomai Festival!
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