Katakwi District Celebrates Life of Late Local Artist Ochoma with Calls for Greater Support for Artists

Summary:

• Ochoma, popularly known as “Eyeki Yeki,” was born in 1972 and hailed from Obira village, Akoboi sub-county, Ngariam county, in Katakwi District.

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KATAKWI: Hundreds of people from Katakwi District and the wider Teso region gathered on Saturday, September 14th, to celebrate the life of the late John Robert Ochoma, a beloved local artist from the Katakwi-Teso sub-region in eastern Uganda.

Ochoma, popularly known as “Eyeki Yeki,” was born in 1972 and hailed from Obira village, Akoboi sub-county, Ngariam county, in Katakwi District. He passed away in a tragic motorcycle accident while en route to Continental Radio in Kumi to deliver his music.

Kenneth Obira, the chairperson of the Ilogir clan, noted that Ochoma left behind five children and his wife, Jenifer Amuge. He added that every September 14th, the community gathers to remember Ochoma and his contributions to Teso culture and music.

Some of Ochoma’s notable songs include “Eyeki Yeki,” “Opombe,” “Iitunenete Itunga,” and “Vitamin C,” among others.

Hon. Geoffrey Omolo, the LC5 chairperson for Katakwi, encouraged local artists to compose inspirational music, noting that the district is making steady progress. He also called for patience from the public as leaders continue to serve the people.

Martin Odaka Omedo, a cassava farmer from Toroma, praised Ochoma’s widow for her strength in maintaining the family’s assets and raising their children, which he said many would find difficult to manage.

Mr. Cecilia Anyakoit, a candidate for the Katakwi District Woman MP seat, contributed 500,000 Ugandan shillings to the funeral prayers. She lauded Ochoma for composing educational songs that benefited both the community and local leaders during their campaigns. Anyakoit, who has been a strong contender against the incumbent MP and Vice President Jessica Alupo, pledged to provide strong leadership and improve service delivery in Katakwi.

Raymond Odeke, the Vice President’s coordinator, acknowledged that while there was currently no formal support from the VP’s office for Ochoma’s family, future assistance would be considered.

The chief guest, Minister of State for Education and Sports (Sports), Hon. Peter Ogwang, through his representative, Hon. Obukui Jorem, expressed disappointment that some politicians exploit artists without improving their welfare, urging an end to this practice. Ogwang praised Ochoma for his creativity and for inspiring many people in Teso with his music.

Hon. Obukui also delivered a cash contribution of 2 million Ugandan shillings to Ochoma’s family and called on media houses to continue promoting local artists to help them gain recognition.