TORORO, February 28, 2026 — President Yoweri Museveni has praised the Kwar Adhola, Moses Stephen Owori of the Tieng Adhola Cultural Institution, for his steadfast leadership and collaboration with the Central Government in advancing socio-economic development in Tororo District.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Vice President Jessica Alupo during the monarch’s centennial birthday celebrations at Elgon View Field in Tororo, the President commended the cultural institution for championing development initiatives that benefit both the people of Tororo and the nation at large.
“I appreciate you for the work you are doing to build, guide, and administer the kingdom. The kingdom is commended for the various developmental projects being undertaken for the good of the people of Tororo and the entire nation,” the President noted.
President Museveni further applauded the Kwar Adhola for fostering unity and encouraging his subjects to support government programs aimed at promoting peace and development. He observed that since the restoration of the Tieng Adhola Cultural Institution, the National Resistance Movement government has maintained a cordial and productive relationship with the kingdom.
He urged the people of Tororo to prioritize hard work, unity, and cohesion, emphasizing that sustainable development can only thrive in an environment free of conflict.
Congratulating the monarch on reaching 100 years of age, President Museveni described the milestone as “phenomenal” and a blessing not only to the royal family and the Japadhola community but also to the entire country.
“It is such a blessing to celebrate with Your Royal Highness the many years of significant service, leadership, and counsel you have rendered to your people. This is a phenomenal milestone that many never witness,” the President said, thanking God for granting the King long life, good health, and wisdom.
He challenged the kingdom’s clerks to document the rich heritage and life experiences of Kwar Owori for the benefit of future generations, noting that a century of life carries invaluable lessons and historical insight.
Quoting the Bible from Deuteronomy 5:16 — “Honour your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, that your days may be long” — President Museveni said the centennial celebration was testimony to God’s promise of long life.
On behalf of the people of Padhola, Kwar Adhola Moses Stephen Owori thanked President Museveni for honoring his invitation and acknowledged Vice President Jessica Alupo for representing him at the event. He also congratulated both leaders upon their re-election.
However, the cultural leader reminded the government of several outstanding pledges to the Japadhola community, including the provision of two vehicles to the kingdom, completion of the royal palace initiated 15 years ago, a Shs1.5 billion contribution toward the proposed Africa Women University of Science and Technology in Tororo, and the tarmacking of the Tororo–Nagongera–Busolwe road.
Despite the pending commitments, the Kwar Adhola lauded the President for recommending the elevation of Tororo Municipality to city status as a neutral administrative unit and for creating three new districts to address the needs of both the Japadhola and Iteso communities. He also paid tribute to Vice President Alupo for spearheading discussions that led to the realization of the new administrative units and called for their swift operationalization.
In her remarks, Vice President Jessica Alupo hailed the monarch as a symbol of unity and commended him for his efforts in combating violence against women and children. She presented a birthday gift of Shs50 million from the President to the Kwar Adhola, drawing applause from the gathered crowd.
The colorful celebrations attracted religious, political, and cultural leaders, UPDF generals, civil society representatives, and residents from across Tororo District. The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Oboth Oboth, congratulated the monarch on reaching the centennial milestone and praised his contribution to development in the kingdom.
Pre-celebration activities included football and netball matches, a marathon, radio talk shows, and a thanksgiving Mass.
Kwar Adhola Moses Stephen Owori has reigned over the Japadhola community for the past 26 years.
