On the 5th of August 2023, Gudie Leisure Farm’s white campus in Najjera 2 – Kira came alive with vibrant colors, rhythmic beats, and a rich display of cultural diversity during the TESO Regional Spotlight event. This captivating occasion showcased the remarkable cultural heritage of the TESO region, as well as a fusion of traditional and contemporary talents that left a lasting impression on all attendees.
A Transformative Mission:
Since its incorporation in 2009, Gudie Leisure Farm has been on a mission to revolutionize African agribusiness by empowering the youth to establish strong and sustainable agro-based enterprises. With a presence in 550 parishes across 27 districts in Uganda, the organization’s reach is extensive. The goal is to create a ripple effect of socio-economic growth and transformation within communities and the entire country.
Empowering Youth Along the Agro-Based Value Chain:
One of the cornerstones of Gudie Leisure Farm’s approach is the mobilization and capacity-building of young individuals interested in various segments of the agro-based value chain. The farm focuses on white meat, cereals, oilseeds, tubers, pulses, and horticulture, offering training and support to equip these budding entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in their chosen field. The result is the emergence of competitive micro and small enterprises that deliver top-quality products and services.
Cultural Extravaganza:
The TESO Regional Spotlight event went beyond traditional agribusiness pursuits. It celebrated the rich tapestry of Ugandan culture through a series of captivating performances, exhibits, and activities. The day began with a ceremonial graduation of Division YAV Trainers (DYTs) from the central region, highlighting their dedication to adding value to white meat in the area.
The talent show featured an eclectic mix of traditional music, dance, and drama, skillfully intertwined with contemporary acts like poetry, singing, and dancing.
A mesmerizing rendition of the TESO cultural anthem set the tone for the cultural immersion. Attendees were treated to a guided tour of a cultural village, led by none other than the Minister for Culture, Hon. Akiror Grace, and the Minister of Youth from the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), Hon. Otekat Moses. Revelers were introduced to the nuances of the Emorimor’s palace, showcasing the region’s art, crafts, and culinary delights.
The Stage Comes Alive:
The event came to life with an array of performances, both from the TESO region and the Central Region. The talent show featured an eclectic mix of traditional music, dance, and drama, skillfully intertwined with contemporary acts like poetry, singing, and dancing. The fusion of generations and genres served as a testament to the dynamic nature of Ugandan culture.
Cultural Rivalry and Creativity:
A highlight of the day was the pottery competition, which captured the essence of cultural rivalry and creativity. Katy from Belgium faced off against a local exhibitor from the TESO region, each molding a pot while accompanied by the enchanting sounds of TESO music. The friendly competition drew an enthusiastic crowd, many of whom rushed to the stage to capture the captivating display with their cameras.
The TESO Regional Spotlight at Gudie Leisure Farm was a testament to the power of culture, talent, and community engagement. As attendees were treated to a vibrant showcase of Ugandan heritage and contemporary creativity, it became evident that Gudie Leisure Farm’s mission extends beyond agribusiness alone. By nurturing cultural pride and fostering a platform for diverse talents to shine, this event encapsulated the essence of a united and thriving society.