The Vice President, Jessica Rose Alupo, has urged outgoing leaders in Katakwi to embrace government programs and prepare for productive life after public service, as the district council formally concluded its term in a farewell ceremony.
The message was delivered by Hon. Stephen Ilemukorit, who represented the Vice President as chief guest during a Farewell Holy Mass and dinner held on Sunday, 17 May 2026, marking the end of service for the outgoing District Councillors of Katakwi District and the welcoming of newly elected leaders.
VP Alupo urges productivity beyond office
Through her representative, Vice President Alupo commended the outgoing councillors for their resilience, commitment, and hard work during their tenure, noting that their service contributed significantly to local development.
She encouraged leaders to plan early for retirement by engaging in productive activities such as tree planting, tomato farming, and fish farming for improved household incomes and wellbeing.
“I did not remain crying after losing an election as Woman MP. I instead focused on planning and started planting trees, oranges and doing agricultural work for the next five years,” Alupo was quoted as saying, encouraging leaders to adopt a similar mindset.
She also urged both outgoing and incoming leaders to actively participate in government development initiatives, including wealth creation programs.
Calls for continued government engagement
Hon. Ilemukorit further encouraged the former councillors to remain involved in government programs for continued socio-economic transformation.
He also conveyed the Vice President’s message to the incoming council, urging them to work diligently to improve service delivery and the wellbeing of communities in Katakwi.
The Vice President also reiterated the importance of unity and alignment with national development goals, urging citizens to embrace the spirit of “Kisanja No Change” in supporting government programs aimed at improving household incomes.
Local leaders applaud outgoing council
Katakwi District LCV Chairperson Hon. Geoffrey Omolo praised the outgoing councillors for their dedication, teamwork, and service delivery over the past five years.
He noted that the council had played a key role in enhancing peace and security while also improving service delivery across the district.
“As the new council, I pledge that we shall remain committed and focused on implementing development programs for our people,” Omolo said.
Katakwi District Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Samuel Barker Opio also commended the outgoing leaders for their cooperation, noting that teamwork had enabled the district to benefit from several government interventions.
He highlighted achievements such as the construction of over five seed secondary schools, including Getom, Akoboi, Okore, and Guyanguy, alongside improvements in district infrastructure.
The CAO urged the outgoing leaders to maintain good health, remain active in community life, and avoid alcoholism, while encouraging them to join government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and Youth Livelihood initiatives.
Accountability and unity emphasized
Former Katakwi Town Council councilor Hon. Joseph Isadat, speaking on behalf of the outgoing team, thanked district leadership for their cooperation and noted that the council had successfully handled 11 cases during its term.
He described the tenure as peaceful and productive, adding that no major unresolved issues were left behind.
Mayor of Katakwi Town Council Hon. Akutu Sadoki also commended the outgoing councillors for their contribution to infrastructure development, particularly in roads, schools, and health services.
He called for unity between outgoing and incoming leaders to sustain development momentum in the district.
Spiritual reflection
Presiding over the Holy Mass, Rev. Fr. Jonathan Wyok Bahango of Katakwi Catholic Parish thanked the leaders for their humility and service to the electorate.
He urged them to continue seeking God’s guidance both in and out of office.
“Let us put our hope and trust in God whenever we are in leadership,” he said.
The event concluded with renewed calls for unity, continuity, and commitment to government programs aimed at improving livelihoods across Katakwi District.
