Cultural institutions launch programme to revive moral values

_________

The Government has pledged to support the new programme launched by nine cultural institutions aimed at reviving moral values and ethics across the country.

Obuntubulamu, a value-based programme, that the Nnabagereka Development Foundation spearheads, seeks to promote honesty, integrity, empathy, cleanliness, humility, civic engagement and social responsibility.

The programme will be implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the cultural institutions of Buganda, Acholi, Alur, Tieng Adhola, Bunyoro and Busoga, among others.

The concept of Obuntubulamu resonates across Uganda’s ethnic groups, where it is translated as Kura Matira in Alur, Kit Matir in Acholi, Tunga Nane in Teso, Kit Aber in Lango, Kura Maber in Jopadhola, Obuntu in Bunyoro, Obundu in Rwenzururu, and Obuntubulamu in Busoga and Buganda.

During the launch on September 20, 2024, at Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Vice-President Jessica Alupo, in a speech presented by gender minister Betty Amongi, said the programme will be a game-changer in the country.

“This programme that we are launching today, therefore, is a most welcome contribution to enhancing the implementation of government policies and plans as our cultural institutions play a significant role in the social transformation of the nation.

They have promoted diversity and encouraged respect for all cultural groups, thus fostering social cohesion and tolerance. They often offer educational programmes which promote critical thinking, lifelong learning and cultural awareness that are needed for intellectual growth and social development of society,” the statement reads.

The United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) Resident Representative, Nwanne Vwede-Obahor gives a speech during the launch of 'Obuntumulamu' programme symbol held on Friday, September 20th at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala. (Credit: Alfred Ochwo)

According to the Vice-President, cultural institutions are well known for providing gathering places for people of diverse backgrounds and creating opportunities for social interaction and the exchange of ideas thereby fostering a sense of belonging and unity among citizens.

Cultural institutions contribute to economic growth through the creation of jobs, especially in areas such as tourism, hospitality and the creative arts, this has impact on the economic well-being of people and the country's overall prosperity social values such as community, compassion, justice, cooperation and wellbeing are fostered by cultural institution, she said.

Alupo added that by promoting these values and behaviours, they seek to create a society where individuals and communities can thrive collectively, ultimately leading to the attainment of national aspirations.

Propeller of SDGs

United Nations Development Programme's (UNDP) resident representative Nwanne Vwede-Obahor said implementation of the programme will help the country achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“The value and ethics are critical in fostering peace and development within societies, They shape our individual and collective behaviour, our attitudes, culture and norms- that we use in our day-to-day interaction and governance of our homes, communities and nation,” she said.

Obahor added that when individuals and communities adhere to strong ethical standards, they are more likely to engage in peaceful interaction, promote social justice, and work collaboratively toward sustainable development.

The concept of Obuntubulamu resonates across Uganda’s ethnic groups, where it is translated as Kura Matira in Alur, Kit Matir in Acholi, Tunga Nane in Teso, Kit Aber in Lango, Kura Maber in Jopadhola, Obuntu in Bunyoro, Obundu in Rwenzururu, and Obuntubulamu in Busoga and Buganda. (Credit: Alfred Ochwo)

Fostering cultural ethics

The Nnaabagereka of Buganda, Sylvia Nagginda, who is also the founder of the Nnabagereka Development Foundation, highlighted the importance of restoring human values in light of contemporary challenges both locally and globally.

“The revival of Obuntubulamu is crucial for fostering a culture of ethics, integrity, peace, and sustainable development. Young people and communities look up to cultural and religious institutions for guidance on values. These institutions play a pivotal role in shaping positive behaviour within society,” Nagginda said.

She further noted that the principles of Obuntubulamu advocate for reconciliation, sharing, civility, responsibility, trust, and rehabilitation, which are vital for peace and development.

These values, she emphasized, are crucial in addressing challenges such as corruption, violence, climate change and environmental degradation, while promoting accountability, responsible citizenship, and inclusive development she explained.

Nnabagereka Development Foundation board member Dr Elizabeth Lwanga said with Uganda’s rich diversity of over 65 ethnic groups sharing these values, the programme is poised to make a significant impact.

“We have developed this programme to be implemented nationwide in collaboration with all cultural institutions. These institutions will play a critical role in its rollout. Our hope is for all cultural groups across Uganda to participate,” Lwanga said.

The programme will focus on education, mentorship, and sensitization, with a particular emphasis on instilling empathy, cooperation, and respect for diversity in children from an early age.

This will help foster non-violence and social equity in future generations she said.