President Museveni has brought smiles on the faces of Karamojongs after pledging to address the issue of scarcity of water in that Sub-Region.
The Head of State noted that this critical challenge affects both livestock and the local population but that; his NRM government is not sleeping to make this a thing of the past.
Additionally, the President is happy with the newly established union under the Lokiriama Peace Accord between the Karimojong and Turkana communities of Kenya. He emphasized that such cooperation and dialogue are essential in promoting lasting peace in the region.
Museveni made the remarks as a Chief Guest while addressing crowds that attended this year’s Karamoja Cultural Festival held at Jubilee 2000 SS in Karenga district.
This festival aims to promote tourism and foster peace within the region. It serves as a platform for dialogue among the Karimojong and neighbouring communities in the districts of Teso, Lango, Acholi, Sebei, as well as across borders into Kenya, South Sudan, and parts of Ethiopia—all of which share historical ties as part of the Ateker Community.
This annual festival rotates among the nine districts of the Karamoja sub-region: Abim, Amudat, Moroto, Nakapiripirit, Napak, Nabilatuk, Kaabong, Kotido, and Karenga, which hosted the 2024 festival.
The President used the occasion and called for a thorough examination of cultural practices to ensure alignment with modern scientific understanding.
“As we discuss culture, we must audit which practices are scientifically accurate and which should be abandoned.” citing practices like marrying within the same clan and consumption of unboiled milk as some of them that must be discouraged totally.
He said same-clan marriage lead to inbreeding while drinking unboiled milk may harbour harmful microbes.
He expressed appreciation to the people of Karamoja sub-region for re-exploring and repurposing their cultural heritage.
“This approach is vital and must be maintained,” he asserted, acknowledging that recognizing shared cultural values contributes to the unity of Africa.
The president also stressed the necessity for African cultures to evolve dynamically, saying Science is about understanding the laws of nature that God created to enhance our quality of life.
“For instance, women winnowing millet utilize the scientific principles of nature and gravity,” he explained as he warned against the notion of static culture as confines people us to their past.
Museveni noted that any cultural practices lacking scientific validity, including harmful traditions such as the circumcision of girls, must be critically evaluated. He said for example female circumcision practice is scientifically unfounded and leads to numerous issues for those affected.
ABOUT ATEKER FESTIVAL
Beyond promoting peaceful coexistence among the Ateker Community, this vibrant cultural event unites the eleven tribes of Karamoja and their extended kin from neighbouring regions.
The event showcases their rich diversity, traditions, heritage, and languages.
Last year, the festival was held in Napak District, while the upcoming 2025 celebration is set to take place in Nakapiripirit District.
On arrival, President Museveni was introduced to traditional Karimojong dishes and enjoyed a vibrant cultural parade, where various tribal groups demonstrated their unique cultures and totems.
The event in Karenga marked the conclusion of a five-day festival that commenced on September 2, 2024.
Meanwhile, the Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Peter Lokeris, hailed the President for attending the festival in addition to commending him for the various development programs initiated by the NRM government in Karamoja and for restoring cultural institutions that are vital to the community’s identity.
The Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, Rose Lilly Akello informed Museveni that the people of Karamoja were deeply grateful for his prompt response to their invitation.
“Your role in this preservation is not only significant but also invaluable. Your presence here today Your Excellency is a testament to your unwavering commitment towards traditional culture and the development of our area, a fact that fills us with pride,” she said.
The event was also attended by state ministers Florence Nambozo, Esther Anyakun, Peace Mutuuzo, Baram Barugahare, MPs not forgetting elders like David Pulkol, the former ISO boss among others.
