Politics 17 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Yafes Otim Omara: From Alerek Village to Parliament, a Life of Service and Friendship
Former Ugandan MP and State Minister for Tourism Yafes Otim Omara passed away on April 5 in Nairobi after suffering a stroke last June in his Alerek home in Abim District. Tributes highlight his humility, leadership in Karamoja, entrepreneurial spirit, and lifelong bonds forged from boyhood. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/reviews-profiles/from-alerek-to-parliament-celebrating-yafes-otim-omara-s-journey-5427624
Heavy rains drenched Abim District on April 5, breaking a two-week dry spell, the very day former Labwor County MP and State Minister Yafes Otim Omara died. The timing felt symbolic to many, as if the skies parted for the soul of this beloved son of Athur to rise.
Otim Omara, affectionately known as Apes or Awai, suffered a stroke in June last year at his village in Alerek, Abim District. He was receiving rehabilitation in Nairobi when he passed.
Born on September 25, 1954, he rose from humble beginnings to represent Labwor County in Parliament from 1996 to 2001. As State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, he boosted game park infrastructure, recruited more rangers for better security, and earned a reputation as an incorruptible patriot in Karamoja.
A humble listener popular with elders, he fought poverty in his community, vowing to continue until residents no longer relied on sorghum. In the Paibwor clan, his wisdom on issues like the Okemeer Gold Mines will be deeply missed.
Post-Parliament, he chaired NRM in Abim District from 2016 until January this year and served on boards including Uganda Civil Aviation Authority and Uganda Wildlife Authority. His corporate roles extended to World Food Programme, Foods & Beverages Ltd, and others. An accountant by training, he excelled as an entrepreneur in hostels, milling, farming, petrol stations, and more.
The writer’s friendship with Otim Omara began in 1974, cycling him home from school on a bicycle laden with his suitcase. Despite age and education gaps, their bond grew strong, deepened by family ties and shared interests. They discussed everything from politics to business, and even co-founded a company named Mayoo.
A sports enthusiast, he captained Moroto High School’s football team, supported KCC FC and Uganda Cranes fervently, and later Arsenal. He also led Uganda Darts Association from 1982-1986, representing the country internationally.
Abim mourns a leader, friend, and brother whose void is hard to fill. His legacy calls for unity and emulation.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)