Honouring five decades of dedication to Northern Uganda — Lokung, Lamwo District
Learn His Story
The Okee Barmich Valerian Foundation was established in 2026 by his family in loving memory of Okee Barmich Valerian (1946–2026). Mr. Okee dedicated his life to education, public service, and community development in Northern Uganda. Through this foundation, his family carries forward that legacy — providing scholarships, supporting community health, and promoting transparent governance in Lamwo District and beyond. The foundation operates from Lokung, the community Mr. Okee served his entire life.
Receiving a Presidential Medal for Parliamentary Service — September 2016
Okee Barmich Valerian was a distinguished Ugandan educator, public servant, and financial administrator with a career spanning over five decades. Throughout his professional journey, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, transparent governance, and community development, particularly within the Lamwo and Kitgum districts.
Born and raised in Lokung, Lamwo District, of the Pocii clan, Mr. Okee built his foundational expertise in Economics and Accounting at Makerere University, earning a B.A. (Hons) in 1971, followed by a Post-Graduate Diploma in Education in 1973.
He served as a Graduate Teacher for the Ministry of Education and Sports for nearly twenty years, becoming known for his ability to mentor students toward exceptional success in Economics and Commerce. His leadership led him to senior roles including Head of Department and Head Teacher.
In 1996, Mr. Okee was elected Member of Parliament for Lamwo Constituency, serving on the Committee on Finance, Planning and Economic Development. He personally funded the construction of a health clinic in Pader Parish and mobilized resources for local residents.
In the late 1990s, he traveled to London for the Kacoke Madit peace conferences, working to find peaceful resolutions to the civil strife in Northern Uganda caused by the LRA.
With a background in accounting and internal auditing refined at Vitafoam (U) Ltd., he became a vital figure in local government accountability as Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee for Lamwo District.
In 2016, President Yoweri Museveni awarded him a medal for his enormous contribution to Parliamentary Service and the Nation.
Until his passing on 13th April 2026, he served as Chairman of the Board of Governors at Lokung Senior Secondary School, Director of Finance and Planning at St. Francis Sunflower Press, Chairman of CARITAS at Padibe Catholic Parish, and member of the Lamwo Farmers' Cooperative Society.
He is survived by his family and a community that will forever bear the mark of his integrity and service.
Addressing Parliament, Kampala
Carrying forward a legacy of service
Providing scholarships and educational support to students in Lamwo District and Northern Uganda, carrying forward Mr. Okee's 20-year legacy as an educator.
Investing in community infrastructure and healthcare access, inspired by Mr. Okee's personal construction of a health clinic for Pader Parish.
Promoting transparent governance and civic education in Northern Uganda, honouring Mr. Okee's distinguished service on the Public Accounts Committee.
Annual scholarships for students in Lamwo District pursuing Economics, Accounting, or Education. Applications open 2026.
Continuing Mr. Okee's legacy of healthcare access in Pader Parish and surrounding communities.
Training young leaders in financial accountability and public service in Northern Uganda.
Okee Barmich Valerian obedo ladit ma ber ki con — lajwero pa lwak, lapwony ma kigeno, ki ladit ma rwot obedo kwede. Obedo lapwony pi mwaka pyeraryo, lacam pa paco me Lamwo, ki ladit pa kuca me yub-yub pa lobo. Warwatte kwede, waminye, waparo wiye pi kare weng.
(Translation: We honour Okee Barmich Valerian — servant of the people, trusted teacher, and leader of integrity. He taught for twenty years, represented Lamwo in Parliament, and led community development. We remember him always.)
Your contribution helps us carry forward Mr. Okee's legacy of education and community service in Northern Uganda.
In memory of Okee Barmich Valerian (1946–2026)