Margaret Odongo Okune, the wife of the Lango Paramount Chief, known as Agong, is passionately urging women across the Lango sub-region to become powerful leaders in their communities. She believes women hold the key to defeating poverty, strengthening families, and keeping their rich culture alive – all essential steps for lasting progress.
Agong recently began a region-wide journey to connect with communities, focusing on how to empower women, foster peace, and ensure family well-being. During a community meeting, she highlighted women as the very foundation of every family.
She encouraged women to respect their husbands, work diligently, and invest in activities that bring financial stability to their homes. Agong pointed out that poverty is a major threat to family life, emphasizing that solving it begins right within each household. She also voiced serious concern over the rising number of teenage pregnancies, which unfortunately takes away future opportunities from young girls.
Agong advised women to adopt healthier social lifestyles, form groups for saving and development, and make the most of government programs designed to fight poverty. She also criticized the growing trend of women spending too much time drinking alcohol in public places, saying such habits diminish a family’s standing and respect.
Regarding domestic conflicts, Agong linked many disputes to alcohol abuse, unchecked anger, and a lack of mutual respect. She firmly stated that both men and women must practice respect for each other, urging couples to embrace love, unity, and open dialogue to solve problems together.
Furthermore, Agong expressed sadness that some Lango parents are not teaching their children their native Lango language, warning that this oversight threatens the very heart of their cultural heritage. She also stressed the vital importance of good health, encouraging everyone to get regular HIV/AIDS tests and routine medical check-ups. For those living with HIV, she emphasized the need for responsible behavior.