Throughout the course of the ongoing conflict in northern Uganda, Acholi music/dance groups, known as aguma, have remained an important arbiter of local culture and politics. Historically a form of celebratory entertainment, aguma was also counted upon to educate young people about cultural beliefs and practices, as well as offer political and social criticisms when appropriate.
The aguma songs in this introductory collection offer a sampling from recordings made since 2004 until the present mostly in and around Gulu district, though some were made in Kitgum and Pader districts. It is the hope of the organizers that these songs will introduce a perspective of local people and allow for local people the time and place to represent some of their own experiences and their own opinions on the war, their suffering, and the challenges they face now as they try to rebuild their homes and imagine a future beyond the immediacy of the present. Read more... |
