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Kwar Adhola challenges Clan elders to spearhead radio project
Tororo, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | After a successful first virtual fundraising drive last weekend, the head of the committee finalizing the launch of the Tororo Broadcasting Network (TBN) is confident they will go on air on December 31, 2020.
“We are set to go. The ultimate plan is to have TBN rock air waves before close of 2020,” remarked Geresom Okecho-Ochwo, co-chair of the committee in charge of the TBN project, in an interview.
“We have placed an order for transmission and studio equipment with the manufacturers, which should be in place mid December. Our application for the radio frequency and license is fully signed, and will be submitted to UCC this week.”
Okecho-Ochwo asked members of the community TBN will serve in Uganda and Kenya, and all well wishers in the diaspora, to support the project. It will be the first full time Jopadhola radio to hit the airwaves.
“We truly trust that with each and every one’s cooperation and contribution, we shall celebrate the launch day together with joy,” Okecho added.
He revealed that a house recently offered by Ambassador Bernadette Olowo- Freers at Tororo central business district is being repurposed and wired to host the radio. This will offset a budget of sh6m annually in rent.
“We are however letting you know that in order to realise our dream of TBN rocking air waves by close of 2020, we still require a sizeable amount of funds. Funds are specifically required for ensuring 100% payment for transmission & studio equipment prior to delivery. Similarly for re- modelling our radio house and installation of equipment,” Okecho-Ochwo noted.
“We are therefore making earnest appeal to all of you, pertinent partners in this noble cause to continue contributing money generously. For sure we are close to the finishing line, the crown of success is waiting for all of us.”
He said costs (UCC license) involved to the tune of sh45 million have been pledged by the area MP, Apollo Yeri. “What is required immediately is money to procure radio equipment estimated at US$25,000 (sh100m) and installation costs of about (sh50 million).”
Kwar Adhola launches fundraiser
Last Saturday’s virtual fundraising drive organised by the Tieng Adhola Cultural Institution (TACI) was launched by Kwar Adhola Moses Stephen Owor at his palace in Tororo.
Several items were auctioned, including Kwara’s portrait and a beautiful Tororo Rock (Tele Tororo ) portrait. Sh20million was raised in the first of at least three fundraisers planned before December 31.
Kwar Adhola Moses Owor challenged the clans to spearhead the drive to mobilise support for the radio (video below), which he said will be their main vehicle for communication.
“Our people are praised for being hardworking. Now is the time for the Jopadhola, each on of them, to show what they are capable of,” Kwar Adhola said.
“This radio will be used to tell our people the truth, spread development plans and cultural news. I urge you all to contribute as everyone is capable of making a contribution to grow Padhola,” he said.
The fundraising plan includes raising Sh12 million from each of the 52 Jopadhola clans, and also from Ugandans nationally and abroad, plus solicit for funds from various institutions and development partners.
“I expect every clan leader to support this effort. How can you be a leader of a clan, and you are not part of this project intended to develop your people. We will start asking, are you part of us, or you are the leader for other reasons….should we consider picking a new clan leader therefore?” Kwar Adhola said.
VIDEO: KWAR ADHOLA’S SPEECH
The clans whose elders attended the TBN launch were from the Ojilai Dibworo clan, Senya, Wambwe, Bagungu, Amor Kagulu Adundo, Nam, Moriwa Guma, Loli, Oruwa Demba, Oruwa Lusi and Bendo. They all came with cash contributions.
The function was graced by the Bishop of Bukedi Diocese Rt. Rev Samson Bogere Egesa, who pledged sh500,000 on behalf of his diocese. At the event also were a cross sectiion of other government officials, clan and religious leaders.
It was confirmed at the end of the event, that was broadcast live on the internet via Zoom and Facebook, that up to sh170million has so far been raised by Ugandans in the country, and those in the diaspora.
The committee still has to raise over sh400million needed to make the TBN project viable.
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