UN turns to cultural institutions to revive values and ethics

KAMPALA, September 25, 2024 – The United Nations Development Programme [UNDP] has launched a campaign called Obuntubulamu, aimed at reviving and restoring values and ethics among Ugandans.

Obuntubulamu embodies the human qualities of generosity, consideration, and kindness within the community and is closely linked to the South African Ubuntu philosophy. This initiative is supported by the Nnabagereka Development Foundation, established by Buganda Queen Lady Sylvia Nagginda, to promote cultural norms within the kingdom.

As a focal point, UNDP intends to use Obuntubulamu to harness various cultural values, uphold ethical standards, and engage traditional principles that can help communities revive their value systems. It is seen as essential for achieving sustainable development. Key values associated with Obuntubulamu include morality, honesty, empathy, civic engagement, self-reliance, responsibility, transparency, integrity, humility, selflessness, and cleanliness.

During the launch of the initiative in Kampala days ago, Lady Sylvia Nagginda emphasised that restoring values is a collective responsibility that starts from the family and extends to the highest levels of community organisation.

“The revival of Obuntubulamu is crucial for fostering ethics, integrity, peace, and sustainable development. Cultural and religious institutions are vital in guiding young people and communities on values, shaping positive behavior in society,” she stated.

She added that these values are essential in tackling challenges such as corruption, violence, climate change, and environmental degradation, while promoting accountability and inclusive development.

On her part, Gender Minister Betty Amongi praised the Obuntubulamu initiative, highlighting its potential to address numerous community and institutional challenges. “This initiative is a valuable contribution to the implementation of government policies and plans. Cultural institutions have historically led social transformation, fostering diversity, respect, and social cohesion,” Amongi noted.

Nwanne Vwede-Obahor, the UNDP Resident Representative for Uganda, stated that the Obuntubulamu initiative would help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals [SDGs] by enhancing Uganda’s social and economic well-being. “This program aligns with SDG 16, which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions, promoting peaceful and inclusive societies and ensuring access to justice for all,” she said.

The concept of Obuntubulamu resonates across various communities and ethnic groups in Uganda, where it is translated differently: Kit Matir in Acholi, Kura Matira in Alur, Kit Aber in Lango, Obuntu in Bunyoro, Tunga Nane in Teso, Kura Maber in Jopadhola, Obuntubulamu in Busoga and Buganda, and Obundu in Rwenzururu.

The programme will focus on education, mentorship, and sensitization, emphasising the importance of empathy, cooperation, and respect for diversity from an early age. It aims to promote peace as not merely the absence of conflict but a broader understanding of coexistence and tolerance.

Ultimately, the initiative seeks to enhance the harmony, dignity, and well-being of all people—values that are central to both Obuntubulamu and the SDGs. The UNDP aims to leverage these values and ethics to foster peace and development within societies, helping them achieve the SDGs by shaping individual and collective behaviors, attitudes, and social norms.

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