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Anai Ober Community Celebrate Life and Legacy of Imat Rujina Odongo on 76th Birthday in Lira City.
By Okidi Patrick
LIRA CITY, UGANDA – January 11, 2026: Thousands gathered at Anai Ober cell in Anai Ward, Lira City West Division, on Saturday, January 10, 2026, to celebrate the 76th birthday of respected community leader, Imat Rujina Odongo. The event, which also included Thanksgiving and family prayers, drew attendees from all walks of life, underscoring her enduring influence and legacy.
A Celebration of Unity and Legacy marred the occasion for several hours.
Amoki Morris, representing the Awitong/Clan head of Atek Okwer Awele, hailed the gathering as “the best ever in the area” during his remarks. He praised Rujina for her role as a “social Christian and mentor,” noting her lifelong commitment to community stewardship.
Rujina, who has 12 biological children and 108 descendants, has been instrumental in shaping the future of her family and community. Among her notable contributions is her initiative to ensure the full education of her in-laws’ children, many of whom were raised as orphans. Her grandson, Omara Geoffrey, expressed pride in his grandmother’s dedication, thanking her for her “grooming and upbringing in the face of adversity.”
Community Leadership and Political Encouragement was the order of the day during the wonderful bBirthday celebration of Imat Rujina Odongo.
The LC1 chairman of Anai Ober cell, Mr. Ogwal Acalo, commended Rujina for her ability to unite people across diverse backgrounds. Describing her as a “clean-hearted person,” he urged the Anai community to exercise their democratic rights in the upcoming elections, encouraging voters to cast their ballots on January 15, 2026 to their best choice of candidates.
The faith and social responsibility of Imat Rujina has also been extended to St.Anthony Padua parish in Anai Ober.
Father Isaac Ojok, a popular catholic Priest, reflected on the spiritual significance of the day. “God is the controller of all lives. It is important to remember our people at all times to assist them, regardless of age,” he said, emphasizing the need to uplift and recognise children, youth, and the elderly as vital parts of society.
Rujina Odongo herself expressed gratitude to the community for honoring her milestone birthday. In her speech, she called for unity and harmony, urging everyone to “live together in peace and remember the importance of family and faith.”
The celebration, marked by prayers, music, and heartfelt testimonials, highlighted the deep respect and admiration Rujina inspires across generations in the LANGO Sub – region . As the Anai community bids her a joyful “happy birthday,” her legacy of compassion and leadership continues to shape several clans across Northern Uganda as a whole.
Imat Rujina was born on the 10th , January, 1949. She got married to the late Mzee Odongo Yubentino of Atek Okwer Awele clan. She hails from the Adok Oyengo Owor clan.
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