Kwar Adhola Celebrates 100th Birthday as President Museveni Praises His Leadership

By Peterson Hiirya.

TORORO – President Yoweri Museveni has applauded His Royal Highness Moses Stephen Owori, the Kwar Adhola of the Tieng Adhola Cultural Institution, for his strong collaboration with the central government in advancing economic development in Tororo District.

In a message delivered by Vice President Jessica Alupo during the monarch’s 100th birthday celebrations at Elgon View Grounds on February 28, 2026, the President commended the cultural leader for his commitment to building and guiding the kingdom and supporting government programs aimed at peace and prosperity.

Museveni praised the cordial relationship between the government and the Tieng Adhola Cultural Institution since its restoration, noting that such cooperation has fostered stability and progress.

He urged the people of Tororo to embrace unity, avoid conflict, and work diligently toward the continued growth of the kingdom and the nation at large.

Congratulating the monarch on reaching the rare milestone of a century of life, Museveni described the occasion as a blessing not only to the royal family and the cultural institution but also to the entire country.

He thanked God for granting the King long life, wisdom, and good health, and for the prevailing peace and security that allowed the celebrations to take place.

The President emphasized that attaining 100 years is a remarkable achievement filled with invaluable life lessons and experiences. He encouraged the kingdom’s officials to document the heritage and legacy of the monarch for future generations. Quoting scripture, he highlighted the biblical promise of long life as a reward for obedience and honor.

Museveni extended his best wishes to the Kwar Adhola for continued good health, wisdom, and peaceful leadership.

In his remarks, the Kwar Adhola expressed gratitude to the President for honoring his invitation and congratulated both Museveni and Vice President Alupo on their re-election.

He, however, reminded the government of outstanding pledges to the Japadhola community, including the provision of two vehicles to the kingdom, completion of the royal palace project 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.

The monarch nonetheless commended the President for recommending the elevation of Tororo Municipality to city status and for creating three new districts to better serve both the Japadhola and Iteso communities.

He also appreciated Vice President Alupo’s role in facilitating dialogue that led to these administrative changes and appealed for their swift operationalization.

Vice President Alupo praised the Kwar Adhola for championing the fight against violence against women and children and for promoting unity within the kingdom. She presented a Shs50 million birthday gift from the President to the monarch amid applause from attendees.

The celebrations drew a large gathering of religious, political, and cultural leaders, UPDF generals, civil society representatives, and residents of Tororo.

The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Oboth Oboth, also congratulated the centenarian monarch, applauding his stewardship and dedication to development.

In the days leading up to the grand event, the kingdom organized various activities including football and netball matches, a marathon, radio programs, and a thanksgiving Mass.

Moses Stephen Owori has served on the throne of the Japadhola community for 26 years.