By KT Reporter
Pader District is prioritising the preservation of Acholi cultural heritage as a strategy to grow its tourism sector and diversify local revenue sources.
The District Tourism Officer, Sarah Amono, said the district is home to several untapped cultural assets with strong tourism potential. These include “Ker Kal Kwaro Acholi” in Lacekocot, the sacred sites of “Lacer,” “Eringa,” and “Wangjok” in Atanga Town Council, as well as traditional Acholi dances like “Orak”, “Dingidingi”, “Myel Acut”, and “Bwola”.
Amono said cultural tourism, when well-developed, could become a reliable economic driver. “Culture is not just for identity, but it is also a business opportunity. Tourists are willing to pay to witness rituals, dances, visit historical sites, and experience our traditions,” she said.
She, however, pointed out that the district lacks designated cultural spaces, proper infrastructure and funding to support this vision. Cultural erosion, particularly among the youth influenced by Western lifestyles, also poses a challenge. “We need to sensitise communities on the economic and social value of preserving our traditions,” Amono added.
Angagura Sub-county Chairperson Freddy Stephen Okello noted that his sub-county has cultural landmarks associated with former Acholi chiefs, but these sites remain undeveloped and aren’t registered. He expressed concern over the unfulfilled government pledge of 800 million shillings made by Martin Magarra Bahinduka, Minister of State for Tourism.
Rwot John Peko Lugai II, the Chief of the Pa Luo clan, emphasised the spiritual significance of sites like a hilly slope, Kalawinya known to be used by elders during rainmaking rituals, “Tong Ker” – a shrine where only elders are allowed to see it as it’s believed to make young people infertile. He also mentioned former conflict zones like the Pajule IDP camp, attacked during the LRA insurgency, as important for cultural remembrance and education.
Lugai called for the construction of a museum to house cultural artefacts, urging government support in documenting traditions, and the inclusion of cultural education in schools. “Culture is our identity. If we lose it, we lose who we are,” he said.
According to the Uganda Tourism Board, cultural tourism currently contributes over USD 300 million (approximately 1.09 trillion shillings) annually to the national economy-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
