Serere County Aspiring MP Steven Ariong Wins Hearts with Gesture of Support to Burial Groups.
By Atek Jolly Piloya
SERERE, UGANDA – December 29, 2025: Residents of Serere County in Serere District are celebrating the generosity of aspiring Member of Parliament (MP), Mr. Steven Ariong, who has gifted serving dishes to 30 local burial groups across the county. The move, seen as both a humanitarian and community-building gesture, has earned Ariong widespread praise as he positions himself ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The donation is particularly significant in a region where many burial associations—community-based organizations responsible for supporting families during funerals—have long struggled with inadequate resources. These groups often provide essential services such as food preparation and hospitality during burial gatherings, yet have historically lacked basic items like plates, spoons, and serving bowls.
“This donation has eased our burden,” said Betty Anyuel, a member of the Oburin burial group. “We used to borrow or rent dishes, and sometimes had to turn people away because we couldn’t serve food properly. Now, we can carry out our duties with dignity.”
Anyuel lauded Ariong for stepping in even before securing parliamentary office, noting that Serere has long suffered from a lack of committed leadership. “He’s not yet in parliament, but he’s already repaired all the broken and abandoned boreholes across the county. He has supported many burial groups. These are the leaders that Serere has been lacking,” she said.
For years, residents say, Serere County has lagged behind neighboring areas in development due to what they describe as ineffective representation. Many believe that Ariong’s proactive approach marks a turning point.
Moses Omoding, a resident of Idupa Village in Olio Sub-County, credited Ariong with restoring access to clean water through the rehabilitation of non-functional boreholes. “Hon. Ariong has saved us. We are now taking water free of charge—no more paying for repairs. Our role is just to use the water responsibly and protect the borehole. When it breaks down, we make a call, and his team comes immediately. That’s the kind of leader we want—not someone who only remembers us during elections,” Omoding said.
In a public address during a community meeting, Ariong assured residents of continued support if they back him and President Yoweri Museveni in the upcoming elections. He praised President Museveni’s leadership, calling him a “well-serviced and strong generator” of national development, but emphasized that the “extension cables”—a metaphor for local leadership—need to be replaced to ensure power reaches the people.
“The President is doing his part at the top, but here on the ground, we need leaders who are present, accountable, and responsive,” Ariong said. “If the people of Serere entrust me with their vote, I will ensure that development is not just promised, but delivered.”
Ariong’s campaign is massively gaining momentum through grassroots engagement and tangible interventions. His supporters believe that his focus on water access, community welfare, and cultural institutions like burial associations reflects a deeper understanding of local needs.
As the 2026 election cycle draws nearer and heats up, Steven Ariong’s blend of practical support and political messaging may prove to be a winning formula in a region eager for transformation.
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