Abakeira Cultural Group marked 15 years of excellence on Sunday, January 5, 2025, with the launch of the Abakeira Traditional Cultural Center. Located in Kabale District, Kigezi Sub-region, the group aims to preserve and promote the rich culture of the Bakiga.
Their objectives include training and empowering community members in cultural arts, crafts, and sustainable practices, as well as organizing cultural festivals, exhibitions, and tourism events.
During the launch, Arineitwe Deus, also known as Omugurisi Paskari Kashongo, the vision bearer and director of Abakeira Cultural Group, announced that they are seeking 400 million shillings to purchase land and construct the center.
The center will feature a museum showcasing traditional Bakiga tools, such as grinding stones, granaries, beehives, and pots.
Arineitwe emphasized his commitment to leaving a lasting legacy that will enable future generations to learn about and appreciate Bakiga culture.
Simpson Mpirirwe, the patron of Abakeira Cultural Group, highlighted the need for a mindset shift among Ugandans, many of whom believe that only graduates possess proper thinking.
Mpirirwe expressed concern that graduates and the wealthy often undermine the ideas of illiterate individuals, who also contribute valuable perspectives for societal development.
He also noted that Bakiga culture is slowly fading due to the increasing influence of online activities, which leave little time for village visits. The cultural center aims to revitalize Bakiga culture and traditions.
Arineitwe Wilkens, chairperson of UPC Kabale District, and Sunday Jackson praised the vision bearers for establishing the Abakeira Cultural Center.
They lamented the decline of Bakiga traditions and beliefs in Kigezi, despite being the region’s native culture. Both expressed concern that the younger generation may lose touch with their cultural heritage.
Wilkens questioned which culture the young generation would inherit, given the current trend of adopting external customs. He regretted that many young people are unaware of their clan’s origins and names.
