Eco of Nature Donates Tree Seedlings for Rwot Awic Commemoration

13 October 2025, 10:39 am

By Geoffrey Okwong

The Central Organizing Committee (COC) for the Rwot Awic Commemoration Day, on behalf of Ker Kwaro Acholi, has received a donation of tree seedlings to be planted in memory of Rwot Awic.
The seedlings were donated by Eco of Nature Agroforestry Consultants, a Gulu City-based organization, during a recent meeting, according to the COC chairperson.
The trees will be planted at Laguti Primary School, the Palace in Lacekocot, and Laguti Hill—sites chosen to honor Rwot Awic for his tremendous contributions as a chief in the sub-region.
Speaking to our reporter, Samuel Agwani Oyet, the chairperson of the organizing committee for the second memorial of Rwot Awic Iburahim Abok Latanymoi, said although the seedlings have not yet been delivered, the committee remains hopeful they will arrive soon.

“On behalf of Ker Kwaro Acholi and the Church of Uganda, Kitgum Diocese, the organizing committee will receive the seedlings and proceed with the planting plan as outlined,” Oyet said.
He explained that Rwot Awic, beyond introducing religion and education in the sub-region, also resisted British colonial rule, particularly when the British attempted to divide Acholi land with local chiefs—a move that led to his arrest after his defiance.
Oyet further noted that Laguti Hill once served as a command center and refuge for Rwot Awic, as well as for the kings of Buganda and Bunyoro—Kabaka Mwanga and Omukama Kabalega—who both fled British pursuit and were hosted there for two years.
“Since Laguti Hill played a vital historical role, it is only fitting that we commemorate it through tree planting,” Oyet emphasized.

Environmental Significance of the Donation
Boniface Otukene, Director of Eco of Nature Agroforestry Consultants, confirmed the donation in a telephone interview, saying it was part of their contribution toward the Rwot Awic Commemoration Day.
“We believe Rwot Awic cared deeply about the environment. That is why we still have Shea nut and other traditional trees in the region,” Otukene remarked.

He added that commemorating Rwot Awic through tree planting is symbolic of both heritage preservation and environmental protection.
Otukene also advised the committee on the selection of suitable trees for each site—recommending royal palms (otit) for beautifying the palace and fruit trees for schools to provide food for learners.
“As we remember Rwot Awic, let us also protect the environment and preserve the traditional tree species that once held great value in our communities,” he said.

Preparations for the Rwot Awic Commemoration Day, scheduled for October 30, 2025, are ongoing across Acholi districts.
Rwot Awic Iburahim Abok Latanymoi, also known as Wod Ayari, served as the Paramount Chief of Acholi (Emeritus) from 1888 to 1912.
The tree seedlings from Eco of Nature Agroforestry Consultants form part of their pledge to support the celebration and to keep Rwot Awic’s legacy alive through environmental stewardship.