Bagungu urged to embrace and pass on their traditions
He also highlighted language preservation as a crucial part of cultural continuity and identity.
Buliisa: The Bagungu people have been called upon to embrace their cultural heritage and pass it on to the younger generation to ensure its survival.
The call was made by Professor Jackson Mwakali, Interim Prime Minister of the Bugungu Cultural Institution (Buttebengwa Bwa Bugungu), during the third annual Bagungu Cultural Gala held on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Buliisa Grounds.
Professor Mwakali, who was appointed last year by the Bugungu Cultural Revival Association (BUCRA) while waiting for government recognition of the cultural institution, emphasized the importance of preserving cultural identity.
“Let us teach our children our traditions. Unity in diversity is our strength,” he urged. “Traditions shape human progress. We must embrace our identity even amidst challenges.”
He also highlighted language preservation as a crucial part of cultural continuity and identity.
Norman Lukumu, the elected cultural leader of the Bagungu, updated the community on the progress of official recognition stating that “The government has not yet gazetted the Bugungu Cultural Institution, but the process is ongoing,” he assured.
Fred Lukumu, the Buliisa District Chairman, criticized those opposing the community’s quest for cultural autonomy.
“Those threatening the autonomy of the Bagungu people are like people writing on water,” he said. “Instead, I urge everyone to support this constitutional mandate it is the right of every people to be culturally autonomous.”
Allan Atugonza, Member of Parliament for Buliisa County, encouraged the community to see culture not only as heritage but also as a foundation for development.
“Culture shapes society. Let us use our values and virtues to drive social and economic growth,” he said.
Showcasing Bagungu Cultural Heritage
During the gala, Bagungu showcased the cultural richness of the Bagungu people through traditional food exhibitions, cultural dances, attire displays, and storytelling.
Attendees enjoyed a full day of cultural showcases, including; staple food displays featuring traditional Bagungu cuisine, cultural dances highlighting local rhythms, music, and attire, traditional dress exhibitions showcasing unique styles of Bagungu wear and riddles and storytelling, offering insight into the humor and wisdom of Bagungu folklore.
The gala aims to both celebrate and promote Bagungu culture among neighboring communities, particularly those employed in the local oil sector, while also educating youth about their roots.
The annual event continues to grow in popularity and aims to celebrate Bagungu culture while educating youth and integrating neighboring communities, especially those working in the local oil sector, into the cultural dialogue.
Since its launch in 2023, the Bugungu Cultural Gala has been held annually at Buliisa Town Council Grounds the first edition took place on April 2, 2023, followed by the second on April 1, 2024.
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