CPAR Uganda Ltd

I see we have distinguished ladies and gentlemen. You will allow me to respect the protocol as we are. Good afternoon. I am delighted to be part of this programme. I was informed about this programme this morning and I prayed to God that I should have the opportunity to be part of it.

I thank the organisers, because I was briefed about this programme and the project that will be undertaken. When I realised that it is a project that will be targeting our young people, we have so many young people out there who need guidance, who need direction, who need motivation, so that they are responsible leaders of this nation.

The ten young innovators from Lango, Acholi and Teso, under the mentorship of Ms. Norah Owaraga, Managing Director of CPAR Uganda, who are directly participating in the research and advocacy project: “Challenging Categories: Educated Unemployed Youth as Institutional Innovators in Rural Uganda“; being implemented in partnership by CPAR Uganda, Lira University and the University of East Anglia, UK; and is funded by The British Academy under the British Government’s Global Challenges Research Fund.”

In the centre is Mr. Alex Bwangamoi Okello, CPAR Uganda Founder Member; Board Member and Finance Committee Chair, is as also the Permanent Secretary of the Directorate of Ethics and Integrity, Office of the President of the Republic of Uganda, and he officiated as the guest of honour at the project formal launch ceremony that was held at the CPAR Uganda Lira Learning Centre. Ms. Ann Nyonzima of the Ministry of Finance (left) and Hon. Ogwang Rajab Shaban, LC 1 Chairperson of Senior Quarters, East Division, Lira City.

Stakeholders that come like this and join hands with government to ensure that where the hand of the government cannot reach, they extend and reach there for a better nation, I said I should be part of this programme. I am grateful. I can assure you of our support towards this programme and project, wherever we are needed to give a hand in whichever way, my office is willing and ready.

When I see my brother and mentor, Dr. Laury Lawrence Ocen, we have come a very long way with him, when I was told he was part of this, I did not even hesitate to come. Because I owe part of my success to him. He has been my mentor when I was a young person and up to now, he has not left my hand.

Dr. Laury Lawrence Ocen, project Co-Investigator confers with Prof. J. C. Enon of Lira University during the launch ceremony.

Thank you very much. You are most welcome. Lira City is very peaceful. While you are here, feel completely at home.

******************

This text is extracted from the speech that was given by Mr. Egole Lawrence, the Resident City Commissioner Lira City, during the project launch ceremony.