Kaberamaido, December 16, 2025 — Cultural leaders from the Kumam community have expressed deep concern over the growing moral decadence among the younger generation, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to the future of the community. In response, Kumam music artists have been challenged to use their talents to promote positive values and inspire mindset change among the youth.
The call was made during a meeting organized by the Kumam Cultural Heritage (KUCH) in partnership with World Vision, held at Palin Country Home on December 16, 2025. The meeting brought together cultural leaders, development partners, and Kumam music artists to deliberate on the role of music in shaping societal values.
Speaking at the meeting, the Female Youth Minister, Florence Anango, decried the rapid erosion of moral values among young people in the Kumam community. She emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue, noting that failure to act could jeopardize future generations.
Anango urged artists to compose songs that encourage hard work, discipline, and a positive attitude toward education, saying music remains one of the most powerful tools for influencing the mindset of young people.
The Minister in charge of Culture under KUCH, John Michael Engwaru, advised artists to seek guidance from elders and their immediate communities before releasing music. He proposed that elders and fans should play a role in approving songs to ensure they uphold cultural and moral standards.
Engwaru questioned the nature of some contemporary songs, stressing that truly good music is that which an artist can comfortably listen to in the presence of their parents and children.
On his part, Joseph Echidu, Programs Manager for World Vision Teso Region, encouraged Kumam artists to remain hopeful and proactive. He called on those who are still hesitant to step forward and use their talents to advance the protection and promotion of children’s rights, assuring them of support from development partners.
In his keynote address, Won Ateker Me Kumam, His Royal Highness Raphael Otaya, called for renewed respect for Kumam cultural heritage. He emphasized the need for decency, hard work, and time consciousness among artists as key drivers of progress.
The cultural leader noted that Kumam music should be timeless—songs that can be played and appreciated for many years to come—arguing that such music would not only preserve culture but also positively influence generations.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment among leaders, artists, and partners to harness the power of music as a tool for moral regeneration and cultural preservation within the Kumam community.
