Lira, Uganda | The Lango cultural leadership has issued a strong warning against the rising use of harmful substances such as marijuana, mairunji, opium, and other toxic drugs among youth in the sub-region, saying the trend poses a serious threat to the future of the community.
The caution was delivered by the Paramount Chief of Lango, His Royal Highness Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune, during a meeting on Tuesday evening with contestants of the Miss Tourism Northern Uganda pageant who visited him at his residence in Lira City.
Odongo Okune expressed concern over the growing drug abuse, describing it as both illegal and destructive to the young generation.
He said drug use undermines the values and vision expected of Lango youth.
He commended the National Drug Authority (NDA) for working with Miss Tourism Uganda and the Lango cultural institution in confronting the issue.
He emphasized that culture must play a central role in addressing the drug crisis, saying it helps shape identity and discipline among young people.
The Paramount Chief urged the contestants to serve as cultural ambassadors who uphold the Lango identity and inspire responsible living.
He reminded them that culture is their first identity and should be proudly represented wherever they go.
Also speaking at the event, Alfred Akali Oyom, an inspector with the National Drug Authority and part of the Miss Tourism organizing team, said drug abuse in Lango is spreading rapidly.
He called for stronger partnerships between NDA and cultural institutions to scale up awareness campaigns.
Oyom noted that the office of the Paramount Chief is a critical platform to reach and educate the youth, warning that the increasing drug culture threatens peace and social cohesion.
Gloria Alele, the head of Miss Tourism Northern Uganda, said this year’s pageant is themed “I Am My Culture”, focusing on the importance of preserving and promoting heritage.
She said involving the cultural leadership of Lango was deliberate to give the contest deeper relevance, and thanked the Paramount Chief for his continued support.
Alele recalled Lango’s strong performance in past contests, attributing part of the success to his guidance.
The Miss Tourism Northern Uganda grand finale is scheduled for Saturday, July 12, 2025, at St. Lira Hotel.
The event will gather cultural leaders, tourism stakeholders, youth, and supporters from across the region to celebrate culture, tourism, and positive values.
