By Eumu Emmanuel
As the Christmas season approaches, His Royal Highness Papa Raphael Otaya, the cultural leader of the Kumam tribe, has issued a heartfelt appeal for Ugandans to foster peace, love, and responsible living during the festive period. Speaking in Kaberamaido District on December 10, 2024, Otaya urged citizens to prioritize harmony and family unity while avoiding actions that could lead to suffering and conflict.
Otaya expressed concern over the rise in crimes such as theft, domestic violence, reckless driving, and family separations that often overshadow the joy of Christmas celebrations. He called on Ugandans to embrace the values of sharing and financial prudence, praying that this Christmas would be marked by unity and goodwill.
“Let this Christmas be one of peace, sharing, and love. Let us avoid reckless actions that lead to unnecessary suffering,” Otaya emphasized in his address.
Christmas, celebrated globally on December 25, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, who is believed to be the savior of the world. Otaya’s message resonates deeply with the season’s core values of hope, joy, and redemption, aligning with Christian teachings of goodwill, unity, and compassion.
However, the festive season in Uganda has often been marred by a surge in crime due to increased economic activity and social pressures. Authorities have reported a rise in crimes such as theft in crowded markets, fraudulent schemes targeting shoppers, domestic conflicts fueled by alcohol, and road accidents caused by reckless driving and speeding.
Otaya underscored the importance of personal responsibility and vigilance to mitigate these risks, urging families to remain united and prioritize safety. “Families must remain united and prioritize safety. Let us protect our children, avoid unnecessary conflicts, and ensure that Christmas is a time of joy for everyone,” he said.
The Kumam, a small ethnic group in northeastern Uganda, are renowned for their vibrant cultural music, agricultural heritage, and social harmony. Despite challenges such as poverty, marginalization, and limited access to education, the Kumam community has upheld strong values of unity and resilience. Otaya’s message reflects these principles, encouraging Ugandans to emulate the Kumam spirit of togetherness during Christmas.
As Ugandans prepare for the celebrations, Otaya’s appeal serves as a timely reminder of the essence of the season: peace, love, and shared joy. By prioritizing responsible behavior and community values, Ugandans can ensure that this Christmas is a time of genuine festivity and harmony.