A western cultural extravaganza

Feb 23, 2010

They came in droves from Bushenyi district and beyond, to Kizinda Ground in Ishaka town council last Friday. They were eager to witness the launch of “Ekitaguriro kya Radio West”, the biggest cultural extravaganza in western Uganda.

By Abdulkarim Ssengendo

They came in droves from Bushenyi district and beyond, to Kizinda Ground in Ishaka town council last Friday. They were eager to witness the launch of “Ekitaguriro kya Radio West”, the biggest cultural extravaganza in western Uganda.

The event mobilises the community to come together, and through music, dance and drama competitions, embrace and promote their culture.

The event will be held in 10 districts — Bushenyi, Isingiro, Ntungamo, Mbarara, Kiruhura, Rakai, Lyantonde, Ibanda, Kamwenge, Kabale, Rukungiri, Kanungu and Ssembabule. The next ones will be in Isingiro on February 26, Ntungamo and Mbarara on March 6.

At this particular event, the Bakunda Actors Group emerged winner with 216 points out of 300. They received a cash prize of sh150,000.

Chief judge Erick Karokora said Bakunda actors passed all the requirements, including expression, general authenticity, foot work, phrasing, utilisation of space, voices and morale.

Kitwe Cultural Group was the second, with 203 and won sh100,000, while Nyangi took third place and went home with sh50,000.

Others groups which participated are Mitooma E.C group, Rukararwe Katenga, Engel Perfomers, Tukundane and Burere, Kwetungura Kibingo, Kyeibanga, Kirera C.Group, Tweheyo Bihanga, Nyabubare Club, Beiraguju Twetungure, Kizinda group, Nzaarwa Actors, Nyakaruru and Bunyaruguru.

Radio West, in partnership with Igongo Cultural Centre, sponsored the event.

Alex Mugarura, the sales and marketing officer, Radio West, said the winners from the 10 districts will perform in the grand draw due in April this year in Mbarara.

The mayor of Ishaka town council, Jackson Kamugisha, who handed over the prizes, appreciated the idea and said cultural dances will uplift cultural standards, adding that it is good to compare the past with today.

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