By Eumu Emmanuel
Kaberamaido – Papa Kumam Rafael Otaya, the Paramount Chief of the Kumam people, issued a clarion call for peace, unity, and cultural revival. The Chief’s message comes at a crucial juncture in the region’s history, marked by rising tensions and violence over land disputes, poverty, and divisive politics.
Chief Otaya emphasized the urgent need for the Kumam people to set aside their differences and work towards rebuilding and strengthening their cultural heritage. “Violence only hinders our progress and divides our communities,” he stated. “We must come together to resolve our differences peacefully and focus on the development of our people.”
The Paramount Chief’s call to action centers around three key pillars: peace and unity, wealth creation, and education. He stressed that these elements are essential in addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the Kumam people and the nation at large.
Peace and Unity: Chief Otaya urged his subjects to abandon violence and work towards resolving conflicts peacefully. He highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Kumam people and emphasized that unity and collective effort are vital for its preservation and promotion.
Wealth Creation: The Chief underscored the importance of economic development and poverty reduction. He encouraged the Kumam people to engage in income-generating activities, such as agriculture, trade, and entrepreneurship, to improve their livelihoods.
Education: Chief Otaya pointed out that education is key to unlocking the potential of the Kumam people. He urged parents to prioritize their children’s schooling, noting that education is the foundation of a prosperous and harmonious community. He also cautioned against engaging in divisive politics, which can hinder development and service delivery.
Chief Otaya’s message extended beyond the Kumam people, calling on neighboring communities and those in the diaspora to contribute to the development and revival of Kumam culture. He stressed that preserving and promoting cultural heritage is a collective responsibility requiring input and support from all stakeholders.
In a stern warning, Chief Otaya cautioned against any ill intentions towards the Kumam people, stating that they will not tolerate any form of negativity or hostility. He emphasized that the Kumam people are united and determined to protect their interests and promote their cultural heritage