By Feni Shannon
Minister for Culture And Arts
UCU Kampala Campus guild government

The Cultural Awareness Week is a time to celebrate diversity, traditions, and the heritage of various ethnic groups. It is also referred to as a week of cultural sensitivity. According to the National Center for Cultural Competence (NCCC), cultural awareness is being cognizant, observant, and conscious of the similarities and differences among and between cultural groups. However, it is a continual process because we cannot stop learning. Curiosity, an open mind to ask questions, and a strong desire to learn about cultural differences help in developing awareness. It also requires an openness to becoming conscious of one’s ideas, beliefs, traditions, languages, and more.

Uganda is rich in cultural diversity with over 56 ethnic groups and languages, each contributing to the nation’s traditions. With the largest groups being the Baganda, Banyankole, Basoga, Bakiga, Iteso, Acholi, and others, every ethnic group has its own language, culture, and way of life. In Uganda, Luganda is widely spoken as the lingua franca, especially in urban areas, while English and Swahili are the official languages.

Just as “we use different paths to reach the same market,” cultural diversity is reflected in our way of life. We come from different places, speak different languages, and have different customs but share common goals such as freedom, food, education, and ultimately, happiness. Change is inevitable in a changing society, yet traditions remain at the heart of identity. Schools and institutions play a key role in preserving and integrating cultural practices into the modern world.

Diversity is like a piece of art, shaped by different perspectives and experiences. It reminds us of the story of the village chief who listened to two disputing men. When one claimed another had stolen his cow, the chief said, “You are right.” The accused denied it, and the chief again said, “You are right.” When a third man questioned how both could be right, the chief told him, “You are right.” This story highlights the importance of respecting different viewpoints even when we do not agree with them. In a society governed by laws, what is deemed right often aligns with the views of the majority. However, true harmony comes from respecting others’ traditions, ideas, and beliefs even when they differ from our own.

Due to globalization, cultural awareness has become a significant tool in today’s society. Change is inevitable, and time waits for no one. However, as we move forward, it is crucial to reflect on our past and preserve cultural semblance in modern society. Cultural awareness allows us to see and respect other people’s perspectives and values, even when they are different from ours. People act for reasons known to them, and before judging, it is essential to step into their shoes. Understanding others helps build bridges instead of walls of hatred, bringing people together to appreciate diverse backgrounds. Cultural awareness fosters love over division and challenges stereotypes by bringing various voices to light through platforms like Cultural Awareness Week.

According to Dr. Page, striving for cultural awareness helps attain knowledge about different cultures, enhancing cultural competence in all aspects of life. Nika White emphasizes that cultural awareness improves interpersonal relationships by deepening understanding of people’s experiences and daily lives. This awareness keeps us mindful of the cultural differences in relationships, preventing misunderstandings.

Music and dance are at the heart of Ugandan culture and beyond. Each ethnic group has its own style, rhythm, and instruments. The Baganda are well known for the Bakisimba dance, performed during celebrations and weddings. Its origins trace back to a Buganda king who, after drinking a locally brewed banana beer (Malwa), expressed his joy through spontaneous movements. Over time, this evolved into a structured performance, reflecting appreciation and celebration. During traditional marriage ceremonies such as Kukyala and Kwanjula, men drum and sing while women gracefully sway their hips to the rhythm, creating a dance of devotion that humbles even a stranger’s heart.

The Acholi express themselves through the Larakaraka dance, a courtship dance marked by energetic footwork. Men showcase their masculinity, while women use calabashes and gourds, shaking them rhythmically to portray the warrior spirit. This dance is traditionally used by young men to express interest in women. Fast-paced drumming on deep-sounding royal drums (Bul) makes the dance irresistible, as masculinity is seen as a symbol of hard work and strength, reassuring a woman that a strong man can provide for her.

The Banyankole perform the Ekitagururo dance, which involves slow, graceful movements that symbolize pride and strength. The robust and energetic nature of the Banyankole people is reflected in the dance. During performances, shoulders move rhythmically with strong arm gestures, and women highlight their beauty by adorning themselves with colorful cloths. The charm of the Ekitagururo dance is so mesmerizing that visitors often find themselves drawn into its rhythm.

The Karimajong perform the Edonga dance, known for its energetic jumping and rhythmic chanting. It is mainly performed during celebrations, initiation ceremonies, and courtship, where young men demonstrate strength and stamina while women sing and clap in encouragement. Dressed in beaded jewelry, animal skins, and ankle bells, their movements create a visual and auditory spectacle that captivates the audience.

The Basoga are famous for the Tamenhaibuga dance, which translates to “I cannot handle it.” This dance, performed during weddings, initiation ceremonies, and community gatherings, is a symbol of unity, cooperation, and joy. It features energetic hip movements, rhythmic stamping, and traditional attire, accompanied by drums, fiddles, and shakers, making it an unforgettable experience.

The Iteso perform the Ekiria Kiria dance during communal celebrations, particularly after a good harvest or significant social gatherings. Men and women dance in circles, following each other joyfully, creating a scene filled with laughter and camaraderie. The dance is physically demanding, requiring strength and enthusiasm, and remains one of the most cherished aspects of Iteso culture.

In Nigeria, the Igbo people are known for the Atilogwu dance, characterized by acrobatics, flips, and rhythmic footwork, accompanied by talking drums, flutes, and rattles. It is performed during celebrations such as weddings and festivals. Igbo maidens take pride in their cultural traditions, feeling cherished and celebrated, especially during traditional marriage ceremonies where they joyfully dance with friends, showcasing their chosen partners to the community.

South Sudan, a culturally diverse country, has the Dinka dance, also known as the Jieng dance. It is famous for its high jumps, symbolizing agility and height. The dance features various styles, such as the Ajak dance, which showcases strength, the Bech dance, a social dance with rhythmic foot movements, and the Raan dance, performed during communal gatherings. The deep cultural significance of these dances keeps traditions alive.

The Lugbara people of West Nile perform the Duluka dance, once used to prepare warriors for battle. Now, it is a dance of victory and celebration, performed at cultural festivals and ceremonies. Characterized by energetic combat-like movements, the dance reflects the warrior spirit of the Lugbara people. The Gaze dance, another Lugbara tradition, symbolizes unity and community spirit. Women captivate audiences with graceful hip movements and radiant smiles, leaving onlookers mesmerized.

Cultural Awareness Week serves as a reminder of the richness of traditions and the importance of respecting diversity. Through music, dance, and shared experiences, communities come together, fostering unity and appreciation for different cultures. As cultures continue to evolve, awareness and respect for traditions will ensure that cultural heritage remains an integral part of society.