Summary:
- According to Arineitwe, the proposed center will include a museum that will showcase traditional Bakiga tools and artifacts, such as grinding stones, granaries, beehives, and clay pots.
KABALE: The proprietor of the Abakeira Cultural Group, Deus Arineitwe, popularly known as Omugurusi Paskari Kashongo in Kabale District, is seeking Ugx 400 million to purchase land for constructing a cultural center for the group.
According to Arineitwe, the proposed center will include a museum that will showcase traditional Bakiga tools and artifacts, such as grinding stones, granaries, beehives, and clay pots.
He emphasized his aspiration to leave a lasting legacy that would enable future generations to learn about and appreciate Bakiga culture.
Simpson Mpirirwe, the patron of the Abakeira Cultural Group, underscored the importance of changing mindsets among Ugandans, who often believe that intellectual contributions come only from graduates.
He expressed concern about the tendency of some educated and wealthy individuals to undermine the ideas of illiterate community members, despite the latter’s significant contributions to societal development.
Mpirirwe also noted that Bakiga culture is slowly fading due to the growing influence of online activities, which limit opportunities for young people to visit their ancestral villages.
He highlighted the cultural center’s role in reviving Bakiga traditions and values.
Arineitwe Wilkens, chairperson of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) in Kabale District, and Sunday Jackson commended the visionaries behind the Abakeira Cultural Center.
They lamented the erosion of Bakiga traditions and beliefs in Kigezi, despite the region being the cradle of this rich culture.
Both leaders expressed concerns that the younger generation is losing touch with their heritage.
Wilkens questioned the cultural identity of the youth, given the prevailing trend of adopting foreign customs.
He also regretted that many young people are unaware of their clans’ origins and names, which are integral to their identity.
The Abakeira Cultural Group celebrated its 15th anniversary on Sunday, January 5, 2025.
The group is committed to preserving and promoting Bakiga culture by training and empowering community members in cultural arts, crafts, and sustainable practices.
Additionally, they aim to organize cultural festivals, exhibitions, and tourism events to highlight the unique heritage of the Bakiga.
