ALUR CULTURAL ASSOCIATION OFFICIALS WITH RADIO PAIDHA MANAGERS AT THE RADIO OFFICES IN KAMPALA

BY ROSE KASIGWA

The Alur people of Westnile Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are organizing for a historic display of heritage as the Alur Cultural Gala is officially slated for May 31, 2026.

This event, centered in the heartland of the West Nile region, serves as a vital mechanism for the preservation of the Alur identity and the strengthening of the Ker Alur (Alur Kingdom) under the leadership of the Rwot (King).

The chief executive officer of Alur Cultural Association, the organizers of the event, Denis Francis Omwon said the upcoming gala is expected to feature different activities including traditional dance and drama.

Denis Francis Omwon said that this year’s celebration is anchored on a theme; Protecting and restoring our heritage, giving life through clean water in our community. “The proceeds of this year’s Alur cultural gala will go to improvement of water infrastructure in various districts of West Nile where water sources will be improved to ensure communities get access to clean drinking water.” said Omwon

Omwon further revealed that the festivities that will be held On May 31, at the Bar Okoro Stadium in Paidha Town Council, Zombo District, its proceeds will assist in ensuring that bore holes are drilled in various places, and other water bodies are improved as a way of giving back to the communities.

The chairperson of Alur cultural Association, Herbert Oyirwoth said the May 31st event is expected to be a grand display of the “Agwara” dance, a signature cultural expression of the Alur. The Agwara is not merely a performance but a communal ritual involving long wooden trumpets that produce a distinct, resonant sound, often used to celebrate harvests or royal visits.

He said addition to Agwara music; the gala will also feature more than 10 prominent artists from westnile, Acholi and Lango sub regions.

Oyirwoth further revealed the May 31st festivities are not merely entertainment but a formal reaffirmation of the Alur’s culture identity spread across the Nebbi, Zombo, and Pakwach districts.

The gala will be presided over by the Rwot, who acts as the custodian of the Jamit (royal regalia) and the mediator of cultural disputes.

The event will also showcase traditional Alur cuisine, including Kwen (millet bread) and Angara (salted fish), which are staples of the Alur identity linked to their proximity to Lake Albert and the Nile.

Oyirwoth revealed that the gala is expected to draw thousands of visitors from across the border in the Democratic Republic of  Congo, where a significant portion of the Alur population resides. “This cross-border participation highlights the Alur as a transborder community whose cultural ties supersede the colonial boundaries drawn during the Scramble for Africa.”  Oyirwoth noted

Local business community in Zombo District have already begun infrastructure improvements to accommodate the influx of visitors, viewing the gala as a prime opportunity to promote the scenic beauty of the Paidha highlands.

Historically, the Alur are recognized for their sophisticated traditional governance under the Ker Alur (the Alur Kingdom), a centralized monarchy that has survived through colonial and post-colonial transition.

The Alur Kingdom, currently led by His Majesty Rwot Olarker Philip Rauni III, has been proactive in using these gatherings to promote health initiatives and environmental conservation.

Organizers say the festivities, will involve   participation of the young people and this is aimed at ensuring that the Alur language (Dhualur) and customs are not lost to the forces of globalization.

Logistically, the event follows the momentum of previous festivals held at venues like Millennium Park Lugogo,Kampala which have seen thousands of attendees from the diaspora and local communities.

The May 31st gala is anticipated to draw dignitaries and cultural leaders from across East Africa, highlighting the Alur’s role in the broader Nilotic family, which includes the Acholi, Lango, and Joluo.

The officials of Alur Cultural Association say Visitors can expect a culinary showcase featuring traditional staples such as angira (a dish made of peas and hibiscus) and various millet-based preparations, which remain central to Alur hospitality.

As preparations are availed, the Alur Cultural Gala stands as a testament to the resilience of indigenous African structures. It is an invitation to witness the “People of the West Nile” as they assert their place in the 21st century.