culture 29 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Akoogo Festival Aims to Reconnect Teso's 'Lost Generation' with Heritage
The eighth edition of the Akoogo Festival in Kampala seeks to revive Teso cultural traditions for natives born and raised away from home, who often lack knowledge of their language, dances, food, and customs. The event will feature authentic performances, ajono drink, ekiriakiria dance, and music to bridge the cultural gap. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/akoogo-festival-targets-teso-s-lost-generation-5440502
The Iteso people, Uganda’s second-largest ethnic group, primarily live in eastern Uganda and western Kenya. Many Teso natives, especially those born in Kampala, Mukono, Wakiso, or abroad, form a ‘lost generation’ unfamiliar with their homeland’s traditions.
Teso culture shines through unique elements like ajono, a millet-based drink shared communally via wooden straws to discuss community matters and resolve disputes. The energetic ekiriakiria dance, royal ajosi performances, traditional foods, and attire also define their identity.
Facing cultural erosion from Western influences, the Akoogo Festival offers hope. Organized by Emmanuel Edulu, this eighth annual event happens on May 2, 2026, at Royal Hotel in Kampala.
It targets urban Iteso youth with authentic displays of food, ajono, dances, attire, and music by artists like Zawaddi Massape and Busy Rat, alongside traditional groups.
Edulu emphasized promoting heritage to those disconnected from Teso roots.
Source: Daily Monitor