The Lango Cultural Institution has introduced drama and songwriting to impart knowledge and instil morals among its subjects.
Championed by Won Nyaci (Paramount Chief of Lango), Eng. Dr Michael Moses Odongo Okune, the initiative dubbed, ”Galo Wang Won Nyaci”, meaning entertaining the Paramount Chief, will see cultural groups deliver traditional songs carefully crafted with educational messages to the public.
The first edition was held on Friday at the Won Nyaci’s Palace in Senior Quarters Cell, Lira City, with a performance by Yab Yolo Company Limited, a traditional dance group from Abia Sub-county, in Alebtong District.
The messages seek to digest and address social issues, including domestic violence, inheritance, greed, the importance of education and gender related rights, among others.
The initiative revives an age-old tradition of using song, drama, and cultural performance to pass on important messages.
Speaking after the event, Richard Ogwal, the Lango Cultural Institution’s Minister for Music, Dance, and Drama, said the programme was introduced to restore traditional methods of teaching the younger generation about preserving their culture.
Meanwhile, the Lango Minister for Gender, Joe Otim, urged media houses to help popularise locally composed songs, noting that they carry valuable educational messages capable of inspiring young people.
In his address, Won Nyaci called on artistic groups to compose music addressing pressing societal challenges, including domestic violence, child education, and the growing prevalence of gambling among the youth.
“Sing about adultery, because it is breaking marriages; about HIV/AIDS prevention; about corruption; and about defilement, which is tainting the image of Lango,” Dr Odongo said.
He further appealed to musical groups to use their art to educate newly elected local council leaders on good governance and the dangers of facilitating the illegal sale of customary land.