How cultural events are breeding grounds for cultural unity and diversity

The Ekisaakaate Kyanabagera is an event that has been in place for quite some time now.

With each passing year, numerous young men and women have enrolled in this event, aiming to acquire life skills that have gradually disappeared from society due to modernisation and the erosion of cultural values.

This year's Ekisaakaate carries the theme 'In Pursuit of Obuntu Buluma,' designed to instil humility and social values in the younger generation. It goes beyond the confines of Buganda heritage, as participants from various cultural backgrounds have embraced the event.

While one might initially think of Ekisaakaate as exclusive to those with Buganda heritage, the tides have changed, and individuals from diverse heritages have eagerly joined this transformative experience.

Aritha Balabira

Andrew Adrian Mukiibi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Nabagereka Development Foundation, emphasized that nearly 30% of the children participating in the event hail from diverse cultural backgrounds outside of Buganda. This notable percentage underscores the evolving landscape of inclusion and diversity fostered by cultural events.

In his words, "Initially, it was 100% Baganda, but people came to appreciate it more. Uganda is a mosaic of cultures, and the appreciation of each individual culture forms the basis and foundation upon which Uganda was built for the generations ahead."

A recent highlight was the visit of Queen Nyabaghole Agnes Ithungu, the Queen of the Rwenzururu Kingdom, to the Ekisaakaate. She observed various activities undertaken by the participants, with a significant focus on learning how to cook Luwombo and perform the traditional Buganda dance. Mukiibi notes that such gestures were aimed at subtly conveying to the younger generation the importance of cultural diversity.

Nansubuga Claudia

During her visit, the Queen emphasized that her presence signified not only a strong relationship between Buganda and the Kingdom of Rwenzururu but also served as a symbolic gesture highlighting the significance of collaborations in facilitating cultural exchange.

She stated, "While our kingdoms may be distinct, the challenges and aspirations of our youth transcend borders. Let us use this platform to build bridges that span the rivers and mountains that separate us." The Queen highlighted the immense potential for collaboration to amplify collective strengths, share valuable insights, and create a network that extends far beyond territorial boundaries.

Addressing the young people in attendance, she encouraged them to uphold principles of integrity, respect, and compassion, virtues that should be demonstrated in their daily lives.

In alignment with her commitment to cultural reinstatement in her Kingdom, they have established the Nyabaghole Foundation, mirroring the Nabagereka Development Foundation, to fulfil its intended purpose. Within the Nyabaghole Foundation, they have introduced the Embale Nyabaghole (Ekisaakaate) as part of their efforts to promote and preserve cultural values.

"I am deeply committed to fostering the cultural values that define the essence of our communities, our cultures, and the rich tapestries that weave together stories, traditions, and shared experiences," she declared.

The Queen underscored the importance of instilling in the youth a desire for values that have shaped identities over generations. She highlighted that maintaining a connection with cultural roots not only serves as a guiding force in navigating the modern world but also preserves the rich heritage.

Furthermore, she emphasized the traditional responsibility of mentoring girls being shared between the mother and her paternal aunt, while boys are the responsibility of the father and uncles. In the face of modern times, these values seem to have been forgotten, making Ekisaakaate a crucial platform for reviving such essential cultural values.

Nansubuga Claudia, a participant in the Ekisaakaate, shared her experience, stating, "I learned in public speaking to look above the heads of whoever you are talking to because it is a sign of self-confidence." She also mentioned acquiring skills in cooking Luwombo, noting, "When putting the chicken in the Luwombo, you make sure that the bones of the chicken don't face downwards to avoid leakages."

She expressed her belief that the skills she has acquired will contribute to her becoming a responsible mother. In her words she said, "In life, if you are a woman and you don’t know how to cook, where is your life going? These skills are going to be very key in my life in the future," added Nansubuga.

Balabira Aritha, on the other hand, gained proficiency in both hand skills, particularly crocheting, and public speaking. She emphasized the importance of public speaking for aspiring leaders and highlighted the financial benefits of mastering crocheting. Aritha believes that having multiple sources of income, facilitated by her crocheting skills, will play a crucial role in achieving financial independence.