Ateker Festival Kicks Off in Soroti City to Celebrate Unity and Cultural Heritage

Ateker-speaking communities from across Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Djibouti, and beyond has gathered in Soroti City for the much-anticipated Ateker Festival.

The three-day event started on 27^th to 29^th November, 2024 aims to promote socio-economic development and unity among the Ateker people, will showcase the rich cultural heritage and traditions of these communities, who share linguistic and cultural ties across several African nations.

The key objectives of the festival include fostering unity among the Ateker-speaking people and encouraging discussions on vital issues such as the preservation of traditional medicine, cultural sites, and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods. Festival organizers are also emphasizing the importance of hard work, trade, and maximizing available resources to improve the lives of the Ateker people.

Notably, the festival has attracted kings, chiefs, and cultural leaders from Uganda and across Africa, including the prominent Zulu King, who have come to celebrate and honor the Ateker heritage. Ugandan President H.E. Yoweri Museveni is the chief guest for the event, further highlighting the national importance of the festival.

The festival will feature an exciting array of performances, including traditional music, dance, drama, and storytelling. These performances will provide a platform to highlight the unique cultural expressions of the Ateker people, showcasing their artistic talents and cultural pride.

In addition to the performances, there will be exhibitions featuring traditional crafts, attire, food, literature, and medicine. These exhibits will offer a glimpse into the diverse and vibrant cultures of the Ateker-speaking communities, underscoring their rich history and the contributions they make to Africa's cultural landscape.

The Ateker Festival is set to be a remarkable celebration of heritage, unity, and progress, offering a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and mutual learning. As it unfolds, the festival is expected to inspire greater collaboration among the Ateker people and strengthen the bonds that unite them across borders.

By Abraham Ekwaru, Communication Officer Soroti