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Acholi Ker kal kwaro marks Rwot Acana II at 60 with girls’ education campaign

17 March 2026, 1:48 am

Members of the Central Organising Committee address the media during a press conference at the Ker Kwaro Acholi headquarters in Gulu.

By Gift Okello

A major cultural and philanthropic event is set to unfold in Northern Uganda as the Acholi Paramount Chief, David Onen Acana II, prepares to mark his 60th birthday with a large-scale fundraising drive aimed at transforming girl-child education in the Acholi Sub-region.

Organised by Ker Kwaro Acholi, the celebration scheduled for March 24, 2026, will be held at Kaunda Grounds and is expected to attract a high-profile gathering of cultural leaders, government officials, development partners, and community members from across the country.

Beyond commemorating a milestone birthday, organisers say the event is designed to mobilise resources for education projects aimed at improving opportunities for girls across the region.

Acholi traditional dancers entertain guests during last year’s birthday celebration of David Onen Acana II. Photo by Uganda Radio Network.

Speaking at the Ker Kwaro Acholi headquarters on Friday, Organising Committee Chairperson Akena Kenneth said the initiative seeks to create a lasting legacy that will benefit future generations.

Akena on the birthday fundraising initiative -English

Kenneth explained that the fundraising campaign will support key infrastructure projects intended to improve learning environments for girls and encourage school retention.

The Prime Minister of Ker Kwaro Acholi, Martin Okumu, noted that the celebration also provides an opportunity for the Acholi community to reflect on the leadership of the Paramount Chief since he ascended to the throne in 2005.

Okumu on the significance of Acana’s 60th birthday-luo

Meanwhile, the organising committee’s Treasurer Joknene Walter has urged well-wishers, cultural leaders, and development partners to turn up in large numbers to help meet the ambitious fundraising targets.

Martin Okumu (centre), Chairperson of the Organising Committee, briefs journalists on the programme activities leading up to the main celebration day.

Community members have already voiced strong support for the initiative. Jackline Tukdel, a resident of Gulu, encouraged the public to honour the Lawirwodi by investing in education for the region’s girls.

Tukdel calls on the public to support the education initiative-eng

Born in 1966, Rwot David Onen Acana II ascended to the Acholi throne in 2005 and has since been widely recognised for his role in peacebuilding and reconciliation in Northern Uganda following years of conflict.

Funds raised during the event will support the construction of girls’ dormitories at Padibe Secondary School and Kitgum High School, as well as the construction of a changing room for girls at Paibona Primary School.

Organisers say the projects are expected to improve learning conditions, promote dignity for schoolgirls, and strengthen school retention across the Acholi Sub-region.