Acholi Paramount Chief Laments Erosion of Cultural Heritage

Rwot David Onen Acana II, the paramount chief of the Acholi Chiefdom, expressed deep concern about the fast disappearing cultural values among his people. He pointed to insufficient efforts in documenting and preserving these traditions during a recent meeting with local artists.

In a statement delivered by Senior Administration Officer Jacob Kilama, Rwot Acana stressed that protecting Acholi culture and identity is vital for guiding future generations. He called on dramatists and filmmakers to create content that showcases the community’s history and unique identity.

The gathering involved members of the Greater Acholi Cultural Movie Industry (GACUMI), who had met chiefdom representatives the previous week to explore collaboration opportunities. GACUMI Director Lawrence Opiyo shared that their focus is on films highlighting economic opportunities in Acholi traditions while preserving them.

Over the past three years, the group has produced shorts like ‘Obura the Great Warrior,’ ‘A World of Pain, Save Our Land,’ and ‘The God and the Goddess,’ all centered on Acholi lives and values.

Rwot Acana warned of specific losses, including land to outsiders due to poor understanding of ownership rights, and fading practices such as birth rituals, twin ceremonies, dances, funerals, marriages, dress codes, and social conduct. He emphasized using folktales, public dramas, and online content to revive the Acholi language and customs.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)