Amidst the serene backdrop of Lira City, a clarion call echoes through the air, resonating with urgency and hope. Eng Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, the paramount chief-elect of Lango, has raised a crimson standard against the specter of poverty haunting the sub-region, urging its inhabitants to awaken from their slumber and confront this formidable adversary head-on.
Addressing a devout congregation at the All Nations Gospel Church, Dr. Odongo implored his listeners to recognize that the most potent weapons in the fight against poverty are not swords or shields, but rather a profound shift in mindset and the adoption of sound agronomic practices. In a region where agriculture forms the bedrock of livelihoods, Dr. Odongo’s words strike a chord, for the majority of the Lango ethnic group find themselves tethered to the land, yet ensnared in the grip of poverty.
While crop farming and livestock rearing have long been the traditional pursuits of Lango residents, the prevailing sentiment among local authorities is one of dissatisfaction. The harsh reality remains: these endeavors alone have failed to lift the populace out of destitution. Dr. Odongo recognizes that to sever the chains of poverty, one must strike at its root causes.
“It is imperative that we emancipate ourselves from the shackles of poverty,” Dr. Odongo declares with fervor. “And the pathway to liberation lies in a transformation of our mindset, the acquisition of skills, the embrace of sustainable farming practices, and the cultivation of increased productivity.”
With sage advice, he urges farmers to cultivate crops resilient to spoilage, ensuring longevity and market viability. Yet, his vision extends beyond the fields, imploring clan leaders to forge unity, foster love and forgiveness, and toil tirelessly for the advancement of the sub-region.
In unison with Dr. Odongo’s impassioned plea, Bishop Tom Ibrahim Okello, overseer of the All Nations Gospel Church, reinforces the call to action. He pledges the church’s unwavering commitment to poverty alleviation, emphasizing the importance of equipping individuals with the skills necessary to break free from the clutches of poverty.
“Poverty knows no boundaries of education or language,” Bishop Okello asserts. “True prosperity stems from the harnessing of our inherent skills and wisdom. Let us not be deterred by our educational backgrounds, for the path to prosperity lies within each of us.”
As the echoes of their words reverberate, a palpable sense of determination fills the air. In the heart of Lango, a movement is born—a movement fueled by unity, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of collective action.
