DCM Inspects Rehabilitation of Odek Sub-County Block

On September 22, 2008, John Hoover, the U.S. Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM), embarked on a tour of northern Uganda. During his first trip in the North, the DCM visited Odek sub-county where he participated in a tour of the current rehabilitation of the LC-3 Chairman’s office complex.

The DCM was received by a group of formerly abducted children, the LC-3 Chairman and other sub-county leaders. In his brief address to the community, the DCM outlined the continued commitment of the United States Government for supporting the transition to peace in northern Uganda.

Odek is the furthest sub-county in Gulu District from the Gulu town center and it is the birthplace of rebel leader Joseph Kony. The community in Odek sub-county suffered immensely during the 22 year insurgency. Approximately 16 years ago, work began on the Sub-County offices, with an objective of providing a suitable environment for the LC-3 and other sub-county officials to work and attend to the population. Due to the conflict, however, the sub-county offices were never completed.

Through support to local government, Northern Uganda Transition Initiative is carrying out a $50,000 dollar rehabilitation of the sub-county offices. The rehabilitation will include roofing and flooring, offices for the Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, LC-3, police chief and other local government officials, as well as installation of a small court room.