By Ouni Jaspher
Lira City: The Omolo Acol Odyek Onywal Iceng clan in the Lango sub-region of Uganda has welcomed a new member into their family — Bishop Sanctus Lino Wanok.
Bishop Wanok, who has served as the Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Lira since 2019, was officially registered and inducted as a clan member on February 9, 2025.
The ceremony took place at the home of the clan chief, George Ojwang Opota in Ngetta, Lira City.
The event, attended by clan members was marked by joy and celebration as Bishop Wanok was warmly embraced into the clan.
While speaking at the ceremony, clan leader George Ojwang Opota expressed his delight at welcoming the bishop. He revealed that Bishop Wanok had personally approached the Paramount Chief of Lango, Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, last year to seek permission to join a clan within Lango.
Bishop Wanok, originally from the West Nile sub-region of Uganda, said he feels a strong connection to the Lango community and considers them his family.
He expressed his desire to actively participate in all clan activities and to work toward promoting unity and love within the community.
As a sign of trust and commitment, the bishop was immediately appointed Chief Advisor to the Office of the Clan Chief — a role he humbly accepted.
In his remarks, Bishop Wanok emphasized the importance of honoring God in leadership and pledged to collaborate closely with clan members to ensure unity remains a priority.
In return, he requested the support of the Omolo Acol Odyek Onywal Iceng clan in securing resettlement land where he can construct his residence.
This gesture further demonstrated his intention to fully integrate into the clan and become part of the community.
The news of Bishop Wanok’s registration has sparked excitement and pride among members of the Omolo Acol Odyek Onywal Iceng clan and the Lango community at large.
In her address, Agong Margaret Odongo Okune encouraged the women of Omolo Acol Odyek Onywal Iceng to join the Agong Foundation.
She explained that membership would enable them to continue training young girls on cultural values and empowering housewives to actively support their husbands in providing for their families.
Meanwhile, the Lango Paramount Chief, Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, expressed his gratitude to the clan for warmly welcoming Bishop Wanok.
He commended them for demonstrating that the Lango people continue to value hospitality and welcome visitors to the region.
Chief Odongo Okune also shared his vision of organizing a reconciliation prayer bringing together outgoing and incoming leaders in Lango.
Additionally, he outlined plans for a five-year development agenda aimed at advancing the welfare and progress of the Lango community.
