Madi-Okollo District hosts the annual Cultural Gala

By Geofrey Achora Jr

MADI OKOLLO: GIZ in partnership with the Madi Okollo district local government has organized the second annual cultural gala at the district headquarters under the theme “culture in diversity”. With the call for the revival of lost values.

The gala attracted several cultural groups who participated in the event with different cultural dances, songs, dramas, poems, and artefacts among others.

The Tourism Officer Night Zahara said the aim of the gala is to promote and preserve the Madi culture, foster unity between the hosts and refugees and promote tourism. Zahara however pleaded with Uganda Wildlife Authority to fasten the process of introducing white rhinos and other animal species in Ajai Game Reserve to boost tourism in the district and the region.

Meanwhile, the Chief Administrative Officer Ezaruku Kazimiro acquainted the crowd that Madi has a diverse culture with several delicacies urging for promotion of positive culture.

“As we impress cultural diversity, we need to promote positive culture to enhance patriotism, unity at all levels for social economic development.” Said Ezaruku.

OPM and UNHCR appreciated the district for organizing the gala. They said that this is the best cultural gala they have and are impressed with the talent and cultural value exhibited bracing for its inculcation in the curriculum.

A section of the traditional dancers composed mainly of the children exhibit their traditional dance skills during the function at Okollo district headquarters on Thursday during the gala.

Madi Okollo District Chairperson Drabe Ismail admired the display of culture through dances and artefacts. Drabe highlighted that every cultural event is for the promotion of tourism in pursuance of empowering the Madi people economically through dances and regalia.

Madi Okollo RDC Toko Swaib stated that tourism is one of the biggest sectors in the country with an annual contribution of 2.7 trillion shillings. Toko appealed to all the leaders in the district to support UWA in acquiring the needed land for the development of the Ajai game reserve in order to boost the revenue of the district and the local population.

Speaking as the guest of honour Afidra Ronald the area Member of Parliament spurred the people to embrace peace because traditionally, the Madis are peace-loving people. He revealed plans of establishing a museum for the display of artefacts to preserve cultural heritage and promote tourism.

The cultural groups from the different sub counties of the district performed dances like “osegu”, “mure”, “mbiri”, “rakaraka”, and “jengi” among others.