New Acholi PM urges chiefs to join cooperatives

GULU, May 18, 2024 – The newly installed Prime Minister [PM] of Acholi Cultural Institution has asked chiefs to support the development and strengthening of local cooperatives, saying the democratically-controlled enterprises are instrumental in agricultural production.

Micheal Otim, an economist who works at the Parish Development Model [PDM] Secretariat in the Ministry of Local Government, is the fourth Prime Minister for Ker Kwaro Acholi.

Otim was inaugurated last Friday, replacing Ambrose Olaa who was relieved of his duties in July 2023 by Rwot David Onen Acana II, the Acholi Cultural Leader.

The other appointees include Walter Jokkene, Principal Finance Officer at the Uganda Land Commission appointed Deputy Prime Minister for Finance, Planning and Investment.

A communication consultant, Martin Okumu was appointed Deputy Prime Minister for Lands and Environment Affairs.

The Communications Officer at Ker Kwaro Acholi, Okello Okuna who presided over the inauguration ceremony noted that the three were vetted by the Council of Chiefs and approved.

The newly appointed technical staff have a tenure of three years, according to Okuna while extension of their terms of office shall be based on their performance.

Addressing the media shortly after his installation, Otim noted that his primary focus will be on increasing agricultural production through cooperatives, and agricultural mechanisation.

Otim explained that the Acholi Cultural Institution will engage its subjects to title their communal and family land saying, one can rent out parts of the land to get resources and invest in agriculture to fight poverty.

He further noted that as part of the five-year strategic plan that will soon be unveiled, the different 57 chiefdoms within Acholi will form cooperatives to foster development.

He further explained that forming more cooperative societies would have a positive impact in the communities since the coops are good at bulking and marketing.

Meanwhile, Okuna said the new administration will not entertain corrupt leaders. “We have come at the right time to take on the next strategic plan for the cultural institution and we are looking up at the robust system to ensure accountability,” he said.

https://thecooperator.news/west-acholi-cooperative-union-roots-for-new-rice-variety/

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