By Mike Rwothomio

Renowned Alur artists, including the celebrated Lucky Dee, Bushy Da King, and Queen Ashley D, are set to headline the 15th coronation anniversary of His Majesty Ubimu Philip Rauni Olarker III, scheduled for October 31, 2025.

This year’s anniversary themed “Alur Culture for Wealth Creation,” will be hosted by the Kal Omua Chiefdom in Paidha at the historic grounds of the former Paidha Primary Teachers College in Paidha Town Council, Zombo District.

On Monday, October 20, 2025, James Jawotho, the overseer of the performances, confirmed to this publication that Lucky Dee, Bushy Da King, Queen Ashley D, and two esteemed artists from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will perform during the anniversary celebrations. 

Jawotho further revealed that schools, including Charity College Paidha, Divine Mercy Nursery and Primary School, Nebbi Secondary School, and Pakwach Secondary School, will perform the sacred Alur Anthem, alongside other cultural expressions such as riddles, proverbs, and traditional dances.

“We have secured revered artists like Lucky Dee, Bushy Da King, Queen Ashley D, and others whose names are yet to be finalized, alongside schools such as Divine Mercy Nursery and Primary School, Nebbi Secondary, and Pakwach Secondary School, to showcase the Alur Anthem and other cultural performances,” Jawotho stated, promising further details in due course.

These artists are celebrated for their mastery of Alur cultural artistry. Bushy Da King’s iconic song Ker Alur is a timeless tribute to the Ubimu, exalting the Alur monarchy. Lucky Dee is renowned for his soulful compositions that honor His Majesty and the Alur heritage, while Queen Ashley D weaves the vibrant tapestry of Alur traditions through her folk songs, capturing the essence of the Kingdom’s cultural legacy.

Vincent Orach Ocaya, the Executive Director of the Alur Kingdom, earlier called upon school leaders to immerse students in cultural training, encouraging participation in the Alur Anthem, folk songs, riddles, dramas, to preserve and promote Alur heritage.

The annual Ker Alur celebration draws thousands, showcasing performances by cultural troupes who bring to life the Alur Kingdom’s traditions through vibrant dances, songs, and storytelling that reflect the Kingdom’s over 400-year legacy.

Sam Rwothomio, a member of the publicity team, highlighted the visibility of the anniversary, noting that grand banners adorned with the image of His Majesty Ubimu Philip Rauni Olarker III have been erected at key locations, including the main roundabouts of Nebbi Municipality, Paidha Town Council, and Zombo Town Council. He noted that Plans are underway to extend this display to Nyaravur or Parombo Town Council and Mahagi in the DRC.

Dr. Amos Nyahirombu, Chairperson of the Central Organizing Committee for the 15th anniversary , urged all Alur subjects, both within Uganda, the DRC and other parts of the world to contribute generously to ensure the success of this milestone event.

On Saturday, October 18, 2025, a high-level preparatory meeting was held at Skylux Motel in Paidha Town Council, where critical discussions were conducted to guarantee the event’s triumph.

The Alur Kingdom, spanning Uganda and the DRC, encompasses 56 chiefdoms in Uganda and 8 in the DRC, with a population of millions. 

Representatives from the Alur community in the DRC attended the recent launch, pledging their steadfast support for the upcoming anniversary.

The anniversary is a vibrant celebration of Alur identity, weaving together ancestral storytelling, traditional dances such as Agwara, dramas, poems, and exhibitions that honor the Kingdom’s enduring legacy.

John Pascal Wapokra, a prominent Alur leader, urged school heads to ensure students perform traditional dances and the Alur Anthem, fostering pride in their cultural heritage.

Gilbert Jakwonga, Headteacher of Divine Mercy Nursery and Primary School in Paidha, affirmed his institution’s commitment to showcasing these cultural performances, ensuring the younger generation upholds the Alur legacy.

This year’s anniversary, part of a rotational tradition determined by His Majesty, follows the 2023 celebration in Parombo Town Council, Nebbi District.

As preparations intensify, the council, led by Dr. Nyahirombu, has established a dedicated account for contributions:

Bank: Centenary Bank Limited

Account Name: Alur Kingdom Collection

Account No: 3202269939

Branch: Nebbi For further information, contact: Anewa Micheal James (Finance Director): 0772465898  

Prince Angala Lawrence: 0774818366  

Prince Ochaya Orach Vincent: 0772648768

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa your number one grassroot informations