Summary:
- Oyoti Moses, a Mental Health and Social Support Officer at LWF, explained that the cultural gala was designed to foster peace and unity among the host and refugee communities.
LAMWO: The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Uganda brought fun, love, and unity to refugees in Palabek Refugee Settlement, Lamwo District, through a vibrant cultural gala held on Wednesday, 11th December 2024.
The event, hosted at Glory Land Primary School in Zone 3, celebrated the diversity of the settlement by bringing together 15 tribes and ethnic groups.
The gala featured an array of activities, including cultural dances and food exhibitions, creating a colorful and lively atmosphere. Among the tribes that showcased their cultural heritage were the Dinka, Nuer, Congolese, Panyigwara, Bari, Murle, Lobit, Balanda, Jaluo, and Madi.
Mr. Oyoti Moses, a Mental Health and Social Support Officer at LWF, explained that the cultural gala was designed to foster peace and unity among the host and refugee communities. He emphasized the event’s role in alleviating frustrations, stress, and psychological distress commonly experienced by refugees due to the breakdown of social, cultural, and spiritual structures.
“The cultural gala creates a sense of belonging and helps refugees reconnect with their roots,” said Mr. Oyoti. “It offers lasting benefits to the mental health of people of concern by addressing emotional and psychological challenges.”
Mr. John Paskwale Odo, the Refugee Welfare Officer, highlighted that the event also aims to eradicate hatred among refugees in the settlement.
He noted that his office is actively sensitizing the refugee population on the importance of cultural promotion, peaceful coexistence, and conflict resolution.
