The Won Nyaci (Paramount Chief of Lango), Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune has launched a new program to educate his subjects using traditionally composed songs and drama.
”Galo wang Won Nyaci,” which literally means entertaining the Paramount Chief, will feature cultural groups performing before the Won Nyaci and other clan leaders on designated days to deliver strong, and educational messages to the public.
Yab Yoo Company Limited, a traditional group from Abia sub-county in Alebtong District, officially launched the program on Friday evening at the Palace of the Won Nyaci, located in Senior Quarters Cell, Lira City.
Their performances focused on key social issues, including campaigns against domestic violence, the dangers of widow and widower inheritance, personal greed, and the importance of education.
Bony Ayo, a renowned traditional hand piano player and realist who began singing in Primary Two at Lira Central Nursery and Primary School, performed a song about infrastructure development in Lango. He praised the government for completing major projects, such as the construction of the 20,000-seater Akii-Bua Memorial Stadium, while reminding officials about the pending Anai International Airport project.
This initiative revives an ancient method of communicating vital messages through songs, drama, and cultural performances.
Speaking after the event, Awitong Richard Ogwal, the Lango Cultural Institution’s Minister for Music, Dance, and Drama, explained that the program was initiated to restore historical methods of educating the younger generation on preserving their culture.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Gender for Lango, Joe Otim, tasked media houses with popularizing locally composed songs, noting that they carry valuable educational messages that inspire young people.
In his address, Won Nyaci Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune urged artistic groups to compose music that addresses critical societal challenges, such as domestic violence, child education, and the rising prevalence of gambling among the youth.
”Sing about adultery because it is breaking marriages, HIV/AIDS prevention, corruption, and defilement, which is tainting the image of Lango,” Odongo said.
He also appealed to musical groups to use their art to educate newly elected local council leaders on good governance and the dangers of facilitating the illegal sale of customary land.