Paluo-chope rallied to preserve culture and identity
"These names carried deep meaning and emotional value, and we must not let them disappear from our culture," he added.
Kiryandongo: His Royal Highness Dabanda I King Odong David Ateenyi, the Cultural Leader Paluo-Chope Tekwaro Cultural Institution, has called upon the Paluo-Chope people to preserve and promote their cultural identity, traditions, and values.
Speaking during a cultural gathering held at Kyeganwa in Kigumba Subcounty on Tuesday, the king urged his subjects to ensure that Chope customs and heritage are passed from one generation to the next.
“We must remain united in promoting our cultural heritage,” the King said. “Let us emphasize our traditional dress code, marriage rites, ceremonies, and other customs that define us as a people.”
He stressed the importance of naming children using Paluo-Chope names, including giving pet names locally known as “nying paak”, which were introduced by early Luo settlers to promote love, respect, and unity. Among the pet names he cited were Adyeri, Abwooli, Ateenyi, Abooki, Amooti, Acaali, and Araali names that, although still widely used among some Bantu communities, are fading among the Paluo.
“These names carried deep meaning and emotional value, and we must not let them disappear from our culture,” he added.
King Dabanda I also renewed his appeal to the Government of Uganda to gazette the Paluo-Chope Tekwaro Cultural Institution, which he said would allow the community to access government programs and recognition already afforded to other established cultural groups.
Also present at the event were Kingdom Premier Mr. Kisembo Denis Atwooki and Kingdom Tourism Minister Mr. Damot Tela Adyeri, who both emphasized the importance of unity among the Chope people and collaboration with other communities in Kiryandongo District for peace and development.
King Dabanda I expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the NRM-led government for the continued support towards development initiatives in Kiryandongo District.
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