Rwot David Onen Acana II

Rwot David Onen Acana II (born in 1967) is a Ugandan cultural leader who serves as the Paramount Chief of the Acholi People and head of the Acholi cultural institution, Ker Kwaro Acholi, since his investiture in January 2005. He is known for advocacy on peacebuilding, traditional justice, and community reconciliation in Northern Uganda.

Early life and Ker Kwaro Acholi Rwot Achana II was born in 1967 to the late Rwot Justine Achana of the Payira clan, the most numerous of all Acholi clans, and Ms Peninnah Achaa, of the Bwobo clan.

Rwot Achana II was enthroned as Acholi Paramount Chief in Gulu in January 2005, when the position was newly created to coordinate Acholi clan leadership under a single cultural authority. He became the titular head of Ker Kwaro Acholi after its inception in 2000. The institution states its headquarters are in Gulu city in Northern Uganda.

Peacebuilding and justice engagement During the later stages of the conflict with the Lord’s Resistance Army, Acana publicly pressed for negotiated solutions and supported traditional conflict management.

Leadership disputes From mid-2023 a faction of Acholi clan leaders disputed Acana’s authority, triggering attempts to alter the institution’s constitution and to organize a replacement. This was reported in June 2024 on an effort to “dethrone” him and the subsequent regulatory pushback on contested documents.

The Government of Uganda, through the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development Betty Amongi, stated on 23 June 2025 that Acana II is the legitimate Acholi Paramount Chief recognized by the state.