CULTURAL FESTIVITIES

 Call For Cultural Festivities to  Magwi Nations of Madi and Acoli.

INTRODUCTION

Magwi County comprises two major nations:  Acoli and Madi, although the Ofirika and Iyire exist as part of the body. These two nations are rich in cultural heritage, with major ingredients such as important tourist sites. Unfortunately, these blessings are not explored and used to benefit the young generations. Worst of all, most of the cultural sites are not exposed to the young.

I do not remember any cultural event that Magwi County nations organized, but I do remember their counterparts celebrate yearly. For example, the Acoli of Uganda celebrate their cultural festivities yearly. I write this to address the need to emulate our other brothers to promote understanding and empathy, encourage creativity and innovation, preserve history and heritage and enhance social cohesion among the Magwi Nations of Acoli and Madi

BENEFITS OF CULTURE

1. Promotes understanding and empathy: Culture helps us understand different perspectives and fosters empathy within a society

2. Encourages creativity and innovation: Cultural diversity brings unique ideas and approaches.

3. Fosters community and belonging: Shared cultural practices and traditions create a sense of community.

4. Preserves history and heritage: Culture preserves historical traditions, customs, and values.

5. Enhances social cohesion: Cultural events and celebrations bring people together.

ISSUES

Having noted the above, I am concerned about losing our cultural values that are being infiltrated and eroded by foreign norms, values and beliefs. Our children are failing to speak fluently in our local languages, and they can not read or write. 

The absence of preserved cultures has led to deteriorating marriage values, and immorality leading to many singleness. Women tend to treat marriage as a luxury, and men treat marriage as a liability.  

ACTION.

To every nation of Magwi County, I may sound naïve and clueless, but it would be a blessing to our children and their children's children, whatever we do now. If we love our next generation, let us rethink the value of our cultures, the beliefs and norms that governed our systems before they were corrupted. Let us come together and brainstorm on what to do and how to do what we must do and preserve something for our next generation. 

 Ayella John Bosco