By Richard Onapatum
Karenga, Uganda – The ninth edition of the Karamoja Cultural Festival is in full swing, transforming the sleepy town of Karenga into a lively, bustling hotspot of economic activity and cultural celebration.
The festival, running since September 2, 2024, at Napeikori Grounds, is like a cultural buffet, with performances from the Karamojong people and their Ateker neighbors from Kenya, South Sudan, and Ethiopia. Visitors from all over are flocking to the event, dressed to impress in traditional attire, soaking up the unique customs, and probably realizing that dancing in a circle is harder than it looks!
The local economy? Thriving! Vendors and artisans in Karenga are experiencing a delightful boom in business. Peter Opio, a local vendor, cheerfully declared, “This festival has brought more customers than I’ve seen in years. I’m already running out of stock.” Paul Lokeris, a hat seller, couldn’t contain his grin as tourists snapped up his locally crafted hats faster than he could say, “One size fits all!”
Meanwhile, the breathtaking Kidepo Valley National Park is enjoying a surge in visitors, who, when they’re not marveling at cultural dances, are marveling at Uganda’s wildlife. Tour operators and hotels are seeing bookings skyrocket, with some tourists probably wondering if the lions are also enjoying the festival!
In his speech, Karenga RDC Filbert Ocailap encouraged the crowd to promote peace, unity, and tourism as pillars of sustainable development. He stressed the importance of reconciliation, quoting James 4:1: “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?” Hopefully, no one was eyeing the last traditional drumstick during that sermon!
So far festival has witnessed the FDC Party President, Patrick Amuriat Oboi, along with several of his Members of Parliament, enthusiastically joining in the jubilant celebrations, dancing to the vibrant tunes of the Karamojong people.
As the festival continues, it has undeniably proven that cultural tourism can drive regional development while offering plenty of room for both economic growth and a good dance-off!
The Karamoja Cultural Festival is not only boosting local business but also showcasing the region’s rich heritage—and who knows? You might leave with more than just a souvenir; maybe a new dance move too!