LIRA, UGANDA – The Paramount Chief of Lango, Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune, has urged the Lango community to make regular medical checkups part of their cultural norm to curb the rising cases of untimely deaths in the region.
Speaking at the tribute ceremony of the late Geoffrey Okwir Gunya, Clan Chief of Ober Owumulao Okwer Ngu, held at the Lango Cultural Centre, Eng. Okune emphasized the importance of preventive health care.
“We are losing many people prematurely because we do not take our health seriously. I appeal to the people of Lango to embrace frequent medical checkups so illnesses can be detected early and treated in time,” he said.
The cultural leader also proposed the introduction of a health insurance scheme specifically for clan chiefs to ensure they can access treatment without delay.
He further encouraged the clan heads to strengthen their SACCO to offer emergency financial support in times of sickness.Eng. Okune called on the government of Uganda to establish well-equipped health facilities in Lango to minimize the high costs incurred when families seek treatment for critical conditions in far-off hospitals.
“Some families cannot afford it, and that’s how we lose our people,” he added.
The late Okwir Gunya was lauded for his firm support during the cultural leadership struggle in Lango. Eng. Okune expressed deep sorrow, saying, “Gunya stood with me when I was being denied my right to lead Lango.
He was a unifier and a visionary.”Other clan leaders echoed similar sentiments. Sam Ogwang Alunyu, Clan Chief of Mwa-Otiratok, remembered Gunya as a great businessman who significantly contributed to Lira’s elevation to city status.
He proposed that Lango culture should develop clear burial protocols for cultural leaders and author a historical book recognizing all clan chiefs and their contributions.
Denis Kiza, Clan Chief of Pedi Cungkal, hailed Gunya as a peacebuilder who brought him back to appreciate and serve Lango culture.
Rev. Peter Ocweo emotionally recalled Gunya’s generosity, noting that he paid for his education, shaping the man he is today. He urged the Paramount Chief to continue Gunya’s mission of cultural unity.
The body of the late Geoffrey Okwir Gunya was taken to his residence at Senior Quarters in Lira City and will be prayed for at Lira Cathedral.
His final journey will proceed to Otuke District, where he will be laid to rest on Friday, July 11, 2025, at his ancestral home in Olyet Ward, Agweng Parish, Adwari Subcounty.
ENDS
