Otuke District in East Lango is set to host the highly anticipated Lango Cultural Festival, an event aimed at reviving the diminishing traditions of the Lango people.
Scheduled to commence on 29th October 2024, the festival will feature various activities including football, traditional dances, and performances by key cultural leaders.
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Mr. Odongo Samuel, Chairperson of the Lango Cultural and Tourism Promoters Multipurpose Society, emphasized the need for the festival, highlighting that Lango culture has been slowly fading over time. “There is a growing need to step up and educate the younger generation on the importance of preserving culture,” Odongo stated.
He recalled the significant role cultural leaders used to play in addressing societal issues such as domestic violence and land disputes. In the past, these leaders often mediated in resolving such matters, focusing on social redress.
However, Odongo lamented that nowadays, people tend to rely more on courts of law, addressing only the legal aspects and neglecting the social harmony once fostered by cultural mediation.
The festival will kick off with a football match between cultural leaders and the communities they lead. This match, scheduled for the 29th of October, will symbolize unity and cooperation within the Lango community.
The following day, on the 30th of October, the festival will feature a musical competition, showcasing traditional genres such as Okeme and Abuda, alongside drama and comedy performances. The event will center on promoting culture and addressing social issues like domestic violence and land conflicts.
Mr. Odongo noted that the festival will be free of charge, emphasizing that promoting culture is a charitable cause that requires dedication and a “pure heart.” The event will be officiated by Otuke District RDC, Mr. George Abdul, who is expected to reinforce the importance of cultural preservation in Lango.
