Iteso unity evident as Teso professionals unveil growth plan
The Teso Professionals Group (TPG) unanimously re-elected its entire executive committee for another two-year term, reinforcing its growing influence among the Iteso community following recent government recognition of the group as a minority in Kenya.
The decision was reached during the association’s end year Annual General Meeting held at Sudex Hotel in Amagoro, Busia County.
About 40 members attended the meeting physically and virtually. No candidate emerged to challenge the sitting officials, a development members said reflected confidence in the leadership’s performance, stability and accountability over the outgoing term.
The AGM also marked the launch of TPG’s 2025–2030 Strategic Plan, a five-year roadmap aimed at strengthening professional networks, promoting investments and deepening the group’s contribution to socio-economic development in Western Kenya and beyond.
While unveiling the plan, the group’s patron, Engineer Justus Otwani, said the strategy seeks to build a vibrant and impactful community of Teso professionals anchored on values such as integrity, excellence, innovation, inclusivity and community-centred leadership.
“This plan gives us direction and purpose. It is about ensuring that our professional skills translate into real impact for our people and the country,” he said.
Members were also briefed on developments within the Ateker regional initiative, led by Special Peace Envoy John Munyes, which aims to promote peace and socio-cultural integration among cross-border communities in Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan and Ethiopia.
These include the Iteso, Turkana, Karamojong, Jie, Toposa, Nyangatom and Lang’o, who share linguistic and cultural ties as part of the wider Ateker cluster.
Mr Robert Papa, who coordinated development of the strategic plan, said the initiative is expected to create opportunities for the Iteso through appointments to its secretariat, including a proposed deputy envoy position.
In a major boost to the community, Mr Papa also confirmed that the Government of Kenya has officially recognised the Iteso as a minority group. Leaders present said the recognition will enhance access to employment, leadership opportunities and representation in public institutions.
The Iteso, who mainly inhabit Busia County and parts of Bungoma and Trans Nzoia, are estimated at several hundred thousand in Kenya, and share close cultural links to Teso communities in eastern Uganda. Traditionally farmers and traders, they have in recent years increased their presence in professional and public service spaces.
The meeting also focused on strengthening the group’s financial base. To reward commitment, Eng. Otwani covered a full year’s contributions for members who have consistently made their monthly payments and recognized the executive officials for their service.
He further pledged to mobilize resources to clear the group’s outstanding loan of Sh1 million to stabilize finances and unlock future investment opportunities. Engineer Vincent Sidai pledged Sh100,000 towards the loan repayment.
Members resolved to diversify investments and form regional clusters to enhance participation and growth. With membership currently standing at 300, they set a target of doubling the number by encouraging each member to recruit at least one new professional and to contribute between Sh500 and Sh1,000 monthly to boost savings.
The Chairperson, Engineer Nancy Oprong, thanked members for renewing their confidence in the leadership, noting the responsibility that comes with steering a professional association of accomplished individuals. She called for unity, discipline and sustained commitment as the group enters its next phase of growth and community impact.
The meeting reflected a broader push by Iteso leaders and communities to address long-standing calls for inclusion and equitable representation in public life, amid concerns that they have historically been marginalized in educational, economic and leadership spheres.
