AKOKORO, UGANDA – The grounds of Akokoro are buzzing with activity as final preparations reach a fever pitch ahead of a highly anticipated special mass organized by Afrika Mashariki Fest. The event, set to take place on October 7th, is dedicated to honoring the legacy of Dr. Apollo Milton Obote.
Tents are currently being raised, and logistical arrangements are in full swing to ensure the success of the function. The event is a cornerstone of the 3rd Edition of the Twende Zetu Butiama Pilgrimage Safari, a 20-day regional journey that officially commenced yesterday, October 1st, in Tanzania.
Under the theme, "Espousing the enduring legacy and values of our Jumuiya founding fathers: a call for enhanced efforts towards a politically federated EAC," the pilgrimage aims to connect the youth with the history of East African integration.
The itinerary for the pilgrimage is extensive. It began with a departure from the University of Dar es Salaam, Nkrumah Hall. Today, October 2nd, the caravan is picking up students from the University of Nairobi before proceeding to Makerere University in Kampala. Following resting days on October 3rd and 4th, and a visit to the Parliament of Uganda and Namugongo Martyrs Shrine on October 5th, the pilgrimage will head to Akokoro via Murchison Falls on October 6th.
Speaking ahead of the Akokoro event, Dr. Kisembo Roniex Tendo, Group CEO of Afrika Mashariki Fest and Secretary General of the African Union Kiswahili Commission, extended a warm invitation to the public. He requested all people to come out in large numbers for the special mass and dialogue at Akokoro, emphasizing the importance of honoring the region's founding fathers.
The Akokoro stop is a poignant part of the wider journey, which seeks to engage the youth as the vanguard of regional integration through art and sports. Following the Akokoro mass, the pilgrimage will return to Kampala on October 8th before continuing to Bondo, Siaya County in Kenya, and eventually Butiama in the Mara Region of Tanzania.
The 20-day safari will also feature visits to the Serengeti National Park, a special mass at the Butiama Cathedral on Nyerere Day, and a visit to the National Assembly of Kenya. The journey will culminate on October 20th in Eldoret, Kenya, where participants will attend the Mashujaa Day celebrations before departing to their respective countries.
With tents erected and the community ready, Akokoro is prepared to offer a memorable and reflective experience for all attendees.
