Blog Details

Kumam Cultural Heritage (KUCH), the institution established to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Kumam people while supporting resilient livelihoods, has appointed Simon Ochen—popularly known as “Uncle Simon” of Voice of Teso. This comes at a time when His Highness Won Ateker Raphael Otaya is streamlining his cabinet for effective leadership.

Announcing the appointment before the media this morning His Highness Won Ateker Raphael Otaya said Ochen now takes over office as a new Minister of Information and ICT with immediate effect.

“Because of the vacant post now existing in the Cultural institution since the minister who has been holding that portfolio resigned to join politics, I now appoint Simon Ochen as ICT minister with immediate effect” His Royal Higness said.

Ochen replaces Simon Ebitu Etwerere, who resigned to pursue active politics as a candidate for Mayor of Soroti City.

Currently serving as assistant Manager at Voice of Teso and host of the widely listened-to Wan Ijogo program, Ochen brings over a decade of media experience. 

He has handled a wide range of roles, from field reporting to desk management, and now quality assurance leadership.

Upon his appointment, Ochen highlighted the critical role of information in institutional success, pledging to ensure smooth, timely, and accurate communication within KUCH. 

Since its inception, KUCH has focused on preserving cultural identity while promoting social and economic development. Ochen’s appointment is seen as a strategic step to strengthen communication, ensuring that the Kingdom’s programs and initiatives reach both members and the wider community effectively.  His Highness also appointed Eveline Adwoko as his personal assistant. All these positions take immediate effect.