By Benedict Mukoni……………………………….
The vibrant cultural heritage of the Novices, 2025 cohort took center stage during a spectacular Cultural Day celebrations held at St. Mbaaga’s Major Seminary, Ggaba on June 14, 2025. The event was to showcase the different backgrounds, unique traditions, music, and attires of different tribes in Uganda and beyond.
The event exhibited a rich diversity and unity among the cultures in different regions of Uganda and Africa at large. Attendees were treated to a variety of magnificent colors, sounds, and flavors as each region in Uganda and Africa at large presented their distinct cultural practices. From traditional dances to exquisite attire, indeed it was a sensory delight!
The Novices wore stunning traditional attire, reflecting their respective cultural backgrounds. The venue was filled with unique sounds of traditional music, as the Novices showcased their dances and musical talents. It was a celebration of their cultural identity.
The Cultural Day celebration provided a platform for the Inter-Institutes exchange as history and significance of different cultural traditions were appreciated. The celebration strengthened bonds among the Novices and reinforced their sense of community.
Participants from different regions and tribes of Uganda and Countries in Africa who participated among others include; Buganda, Basoga, Bagisu, Banyankole, Bakonzo/Rwenzururu, Banyoro/Batooro, Luos (Northern Uganda), Burundi, Rwanda South Sudan, Kenya and Tanzania, respectively.
The new Assistant Secretary General of ARU, Sr. Justine Nalujja, IHMR, together with a team from ARU reminded the Novices that Culture and blood are inseparable because they shape our values, norms and love. She invited them to embrace the beauty of Unity in diversity on cultural day because in God, we are one.
Bro. Cleophas, Coordinator of formation told the Participants that they are ambassadors of other people, therefore, the Novices must have an identity of the consecrated person in a challenging world.
“Culture is challenging in a challenging world but culture has an end in itself that is love.” He advised.
