President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has urged the country's cultural institutions to collaborate with the central government in preserving the nation's indigenous languages, cultures, and traditional family values. He made these remarks during the coronation of Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City on Tuesday. Museveni emphasized that these aspects of African society are being neglected in the modern education system.
The President highlighted the importance of preserving indigenous languages, citing Runyankore as an example of a rich language that contains unique words and expressions that are difficult to find in English. He expressed concern that these languages are facing extinction as children increasingly communicate in English and other dominant languages. Museveni revealed that he has personally been involved in efforts to preserve indigenous languages, having written a Runyankore dictionary, which he gifted to Omukama Nyabongo.
Museveni also challenged cultural institutions to take a leading role in preserving traditional family values. He noted that African communities have elaborate systems governing marriage, relationships between families and clans, and the conduct of married and unmarried people. These cultural practices, he said, help regulate society and maintain family relationships but are being weakened by modern lifestyles.
The President emphasized that his views on the role of cultural institutions have been shaped by his experiences during Uganda's political struggles, particularly during the restoration of kingdoms. He recalled the tension between hereditary traditional leaders and nationalist politicians over political power. Museveni believes that political power should remain with elected representatives, while cultural institutions focus on their cultural responsibilities.
During the coronation ceremony, Museveni congratulated Omukama Nyabongo on his enthronement as King of Tooro and urged him to become a good leader to the People of Tooro. He praised Nyabongo's skills as a newsreader on UBC TV and expressed confidence in his ability to perform his new role effectively.
The President also paid tribute to the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, expressing his sadness at his death. He revealed that he had received a letter from Oyo, written on June 15, discussing matters concerning the Tooro Kingdom and thanking him for his support. As a gesture of goodwill, Museveni gifted Nyabongo 100 cows and a copy of his self-authored Runyankole dictionary.
In conclusion, Museveni's call to cultural institutions to preserve indigenous languages, cultures, and traditional family values highlights the importance of protecting Uganda's cultural heritage. By working together, the government and cultural institutions can ensure the preservation of these vital aspects of Ugandan society for future generations.
Key points
- Museveni challenges cultural institutions to preserve indigenous languages and traditional family values.
- The President gifts Omukama Nyabongo 100 cows and a Runyankole dictionary.
- Museveni emphasizes the importance of separating political power from cultural responsibilities.
