MTN Uganda Champions a New Era of Empowerment Through Sports in Ker Alur Kingdom
By Amos Ssemuwemba
MTN Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to community upliftment by announcing a significant investment of UGX 160 million in the 7th edition of the Kopu Pa Ubimu Games and the 3rd edition of the MTN-sponsored Bicycle Races in the Ker Alur Kingdom. The tournament, which runs from September 18 to October 22, 2024, spans the Alur sub-regions and extends into the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Phillip Odoi of MTN Uganda emphasized the company’s ongoing support for the Ker Alur community through sports. “Our partnership with the Kingdom of Ker Alur underscores our belief in the transformative power of sports to foster social change and improve lives,” Odoi stated. “With our contribution of UGX 160 million, we aim to enhance the socio-economic conditions of the Ker Alur Kingdom and promote vital social themes, such as positive parenting.”
This year’s sporting event centers around the theme “Promoting Positive Parenting to End Teenage Pregnancy and Early Child Marriage,” highlighting the urgent need for community engagement in addressing these critical social issues. The launch event took place at the Luo Grounds in Nebbi Municipality, kicking off with an exhilarating football match between Alur Uganda XI Select and Alur DR Congo XI Select.
The tournament will feature competitive matches across three sub-regions—Jonam, Okoro, and Padyere—culminating in a grand finale at Omach Primary School Pitch in Pakwach District on October 22, 2024. The matches will follow a knockout format, showcasing local talent and fostering community spirit.
Prime Minister Lawrence Opar Angala expressed gratitude to MTN Uganda for its steadfast support, urging the community to actively participate in the games. “We must come together to address issues like teenage pregnancy and early marriage. This tournament is a perfect platform for us to promote awareness and engage our youth in positive activities,” he said.
Vincent Ochaya, Executive Director of Alur Kingdom, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of the tournament’s theme. “MTN Uganda’s partnership has been instrumental in our development efforts. The focus on positive parenting is timely, and I encourage all residents of Ker Alur to engage fully in these games,” Ochaya remarked.
The tournament will not only highlight athletic prowess but will also serve as a catalyst for dialogue on education, particularly for girls, and the pivotal role of parenting in shaping a brighter future for the youth. As part of the closing ceremonies, the grand finals will feature a trophy presentation by His Royal Majesty Ubimu Phillip Olarker Rauni III, King of Ker Alur.
MTN Uganda’s enduring collaboration with the Ker Alur Kingdom, established in 2019, has fostered numerous successful initiatives across health, education, and cultural events. This partnership reflects a shared vision of enhancing the socio-economic and cultural well-being of the kingdom’s residents.
