Meet the Heroes: Otto and Josephine’s Journey of Giving Back
Introduction:
In the aftermath of the LRA insurgency that devastated Northern Uganda, two remarkable individuals emerged as beacons of hope and resilience. Hon. Otto Edward Makmot and Dr. Josephine Akullu Okwera Otto, founders of The Access Centre Uganda (TAC), left behind successful careers abroad to return to their homeland and lead transformative initiatives in Agago District. This is their inspiring story.
Otto Edward Makmot: A Journey of Advocacy and Justice
Hon. Otto Edward Makmot was born in Northern Uganda in 1978. His early life was marked by hardship, including an abduction attempt by LRA rebels when he was a primary school student. Despite these challenges, Otto’s determination to seek justice and advocate for his people never wavered.
Otto’s journey took him from the dusty roads of Agago to the hallowed halls of Makerere University Law School and later, the University of Toronto Law School in Canada. As the first member of the Acholi community to be licensed to practice law in Canada, Otto worked with Legal Aid Ontario and several public interest law sectors before establishing his own law chambers, Otto, Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public.
Dr. Josephine Akullu Okwera Otto: A Commitment to Health and Community
Dr. Josephine Akullu Okwera Otto’s story is one of breaking barriers and relentless dedication to her community. Born in Lira Palwo Sub County, Agago District, in 1979, Josephine pursued her dream of becoming a medical doctor despite the cultural and societal challenges facing girls in her community.
After earning her medical degree from Mbarara University of Science, Josephine worked at Dr. Ambrosoli Memorial Hospital, where she led the HIV/AIDS clinic. Her commitment to improving public health earned her an Australian Aids Scholarship to study International Public Health and Health Service Management. Upon completing her studies, she returned to Uganda, bringing her expertise to bear on the healthcare needs of her community.
The Birth of TAC: A Shared Vision
Otto and Josephine’s shared vision of giving back to their war-torn homeland led to the founding of The Access Centre Uganda. The couple returned to Agago with a mission to empower their community through education, health promotion, agriculture, and youth livelihood programs. Their deep-rooted connection to the region and unwavering commitment to its development form the cornerstone of TAC’s work.
**Driving Change Through Leadership and Dedication**
As co-directors of TAC, Otto and Josephine have spearheaded numerous initiatives that have significantly impacted Agago District. Their leadership extends beyond strategic planning; they are actively involved in the day-to-day operations, ensuring that every project aligns with TAC’s mission of fostering sustainable development.
Education Initiatives: Nurturing Future Leaders
Understanding the transformative power of education, Otto and Josephine have prioritized educational initiatives that provide scholarships, resources, and support to students. Their Drive for Excellence program rewards academic achievement, inspiring students to strive for excellence and pursue their dreams.
Healthcare Initiatives: Ensuring Access and Quality
Josephine’s medical expertise has been instrumental in TAC’s health initiatives. From constructing the David Fargerlee Medical Center to organizing vaccination campaigns, her efforts have improved access to quality healthcare in Agago. TAC’s health programs address both immediate needs and long-term health challenges, promoting overall well-being in the community.
Agriculture and Livelihood Programs: Building Economic Resilience
Otto and Josephine recognize that sustainable development requires economic empowerment. TAC’s agricultural programs provide training, resources, and support to local farmers, enhancing food security and economic stability. Additionally, their vocational training programs equip youth with skills for gainful employment, fostering a culture of self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Hope and Transformation
Hon. Otto Edward Makmot and Dr. Josephine Akullu Okwera Otto’s journey of giving back is a powerful testament to the impact of dedicated leadership and a commitment to community development. Through The Access Centre Uganda, they have transformed lives and laid the foundation for a brighter future in Agago District. Their story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that with passion, resilience, and a shared vision, it is possible to rebuild and thrive even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
