By Reuben Olita
Elders from the Teso community have challenged young people to reconnect with traditional values, warning that the abandonment of cultural practices is contributing to poor marriage choices and rising family breakdowns.
Speaking from Amagoro in Teso North Sub-County, Pascalia Akong’o lamented that many youths today enter relationships without understanding family background, clan ties, or cultural expectations—factors that were once central in marriage.
According to her, in the past, relationships were guided by families and elders. A man was expected to know a woman’s clan and lineage before pursuing her, while both families played an active role in approving unions.
“Marriage was not an individual affair—it was family-based. Elders ensured compatibility and prevented close relatives from marrying,” she said.
Akong’o noted that today, many young people “hand-pick” partners without guidance, leading to unstable unions and frequent separations.
She also criticized the influence of social media platforms such as TikTok and Facebook, saying they promote misleading ideas about relationships and weaken respect for cultural norms.
“Instead of learning from elders, youths are turning to social media, where they are fed unrealistic expectations about love and marriage,” she added.
The elder emphasized that cultural teachings instilled discipline, patience, and respect—values she believes are eroding among modern generations. She urged both boys and girls to seek guidance from elders and understand their identity, language, and traditions.
However, some of the traditional practices she described—such as arranged or forceful marriages and strict expectations around sexuality—highlight a growing tension between cultural preservation and modern human rights perspectives.
Akong’o concluded by calling on Iteso youths living in urban areas to embrace their identity instead of hiding it.
“Be proud of who you are. Love your language, respect your culture, and seek wisdom from your elders,” she said.
