Kitgum municipal mayor Okwera Richard names team

Kitgum municipality mayor Okwera Richard Ojara has unveiled a new executive committee for the 2026–2031 term, pledging inclusive leadership, accountability and improved service delivery for residents.

The appointments were announced during a council sitting shortly after Okwera’s swearing-in ceremony and were unanimously seconded by councilors, signaling broad support for the new administration.

The new executive team draws leaders from different wards across the municipality, with women taking up several key positions.

Adokorach Jennifer, female councillor IV for Westland B Ward, was appointed deputy mayor, while Ocakacon Stephen, male councillor IV for Pager B Ward, was named secretary for health, education and community-based services.

Anyeko Christine Isabella, female councillor IV representing Alango Ward, will head works and technical services, while Atim Agnes Onek, female councillor IV for Pondwongo Ward, takes charge of the finance docket.

Speaking after the approval of the appointments, Okwera described the team as experienced and capable of addressing the municipality’s growing urban challenges.

“We have constituted a team that reflects balance, inclusiveness and the energy needed to move Kitgum Municipality forward,” Okwera said.

Adding that “our focus will be on strengthening service delivery, improving infrastructure, supporting education and health services, and ensuring that public resources are managed transparently.”

The mayor urged councillors, technical staff and residents to work together regardless of political affiliation, saying development requires unity and collective responsibility.

“We may come from different political backgrounds, but the people elected us to serve them and this term should be defined by action, accountability and unity of purpose,” he added.

Deputy Mayor Adokorach Jennifer pledged to prioritize community engagement and ensure that the concerns of women, youth and vulnerable groups are reflected in council decisions.

“The people expect leaders who listen and respond to their everyday challenges,” she said.

Secretary for health, education and community-based services Ocakacon Stephen said improving schools, health facilities and social welfare programs would be among his immediate priorities.

“Our schools and health centres are the backbone of community development and we shall work closely with technical teams and stakeholders to improve learning environments, promote sanitation and support community-based initiatives,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Anyeko Christine Isabella said infrastructure development, including road maintenance, drainage systems and urban planning, would remain central to the municipality’s transformation agenda.

“Residents want roads that are accessible and a cleaner, organized municipality,” she said.

Finance Secretary Atim Agnes Onek emphasized transparency and prudent use of public funds.

“Every coin allocated to the municipality must be accounted for and we want to strengthen public confidence by ensuring resources are directed toward projects that directly benefit the people,” Atim said.

Residents have welcomed the appointments, expressing hope that the new leadership will tackle long-standing urban challenges such as poor roads, garbage management and inadequate street lighting.

Peter Okello, a businessman in Kitgum town, said residents now expect visible results from the new administration.

“Leaders have made many promises before, but people now want action,” he said.

Santa Aciro, a resident of Pager Division, praised the inclusion of women in senior leadership positions, describing it as a positive step for local governance.

As the new term begins, residents say they will closely monitor whether the administration delivers on its promises of unity, transparency and better services for the people of Kitgum municipality.