EXCLUSIVE! Bishop Emeritus Odur Kami Recalls How 1971 Political Turmoil Ended His Childhood Dream of Becoming a Pilot

LIRA CITY, UGANDA – The Bishop Emeritus of Lango Diocese, Rt. Rev. John Charles Odur Kami , has revealed how the turbulent reign of former Ugandan President Idi Amin Dada shattered his childhood dream of becoming a pilot, ultimately leading him to dedicate his life to serving God.

Speaking during the funeral service of prominent Lango son Moses Otyek on June 20, Saturday, Rt. Rev. Odur Kami shared his personal testimony in a light-hearted yet emotional sermon, drawing lessons about faith, resilience and God's purpose in life.

The retired bishop said that as a young boy growing up in early 1960 after independence, he was passionate about aviation and had always dreamed of becoming a flight captain. He worked hard in school and was determined to pursue a career in aviation.

However, he explained that his ambitions were disrupted by the insecurity and political instability that characterized Uganda during the Idi Amin regime in the 1970s.

"I wanted to become a pilot and I was committed to achieving that dream. But during my secondary school education, the country was experiencing difficult times. We studied amid fear, gunshots and reports of killings. Concentrating on academics became extremely difficult," he said.

According to Rt. Rev. Odur Kami, the challenging environment affected his academic performance, and he did not attain the grades required to enroll for pilot training.

Despite the setback, he said he has never regretted the turn his life took because God had a different mission for him. He later advanced in education, underwent theological training and rose through the ranks of church leadership, eventually becoming Bishop of Lango Diocese.

The bishop noted that what appeared to be a disappointment at the time later became a blessing, as it enabled him to touch countless lives through ministry and community service.

Addressing mourners, Rt. Rev. Odur Kami urged people not to lose hope when their plans fail, emphasizing that God often redirects individuals towards a greater purpose.

"Many times we make our own plans, but God has His own plans for us. When one door closes, another may open. What matters is trusting God and remaining faithful," he said.

Reflecting on the life of the late Moses Otyek, the bishop encouraged mourners to celebrate the deceased's contributions to society and to support one another during the difficult period of bereavement.

He reminded the congregation that death is a reality of life and urged them to live responsibly, serve their communities and maintain strong relationships with God and fellow human beings.

*Message to Mourners

Rt. Rev. Odur Kami called upon mourners to remain united and find comfort in God's promises during the time of grief.

"Let us not allow sorrow to divide us. Instead, let us honour the life of our departed brother by promoting peace, love and unity within our families and communities. While we mourn, we should remember that God remains in control and gives strength to those who trust in Him," he said.

The funeral attracted religious leaders, local government officials, family members, friends and well-wishers who gathered to pay their final respects to the late Moses Otyek and celebrate his legacy.

Moses Otyek who served in different positions before  retiring is the father to Proscovia Ayo, the assistant RDC of Lira District. 

He was described by many a great man whose contribution and legacy will continue to serve as a source of inspiration to many.

He was laid to rest at his home in Ngetta, Lira-City East Division on Saturday this week.