Traditional chiefs call for cultural revival and considerations for widows and widowers

24 June 2025, 10:49 am

By Ayiro Golden Vicky

In Acholi tradition, mourners gather at funeral places to pay respect to deceased persons irrespective of families’ capacities and location. However, concerns have risen pertaining disparities in how widows and widowers are usually treated by the general public after burial services are done.

During an interaction with our reporter, some men say in most cases, widowers in the traditional set up, are neglected after burials are complete. According to them, less attention is paid to the affected.

Margret Odong, a resident of Ogwaleng ward, Pader town council who fell a victim of being a widow in 1998 says it is by tradition that more of the community focus is on the widows compared to widowers.

Odong compares the life of orphans left under the care of widows and widowers and she applauds the effort put forward by the widows. She is uncertain whether the men want the Acholi culture to erode. However, she appeals to the men to obey the tradition.

Margret Odongo on Widows and widowers-Luo

Odongo says that even if there is focus on the widows, less of what is said during funerals by different stakeholders is implemented.

In response to the cry raised by men, Ocen Anying of J’Paipiir Amoloker and Rwot Odongo of Lira-Palwo say it is the mandate of clan leaders and members to stand with widowers at all times.

Rwot Kasimiro Ongom of Ker kwaro Kutongo of Patongo says most men do not openly disclose their inward problems which makes public think all is well. He calls upon men to console colleagues who might fall victims of circumstances.

Kasimiro on Consolation-Luo

Rwot John Peko Lugai of Pajule and chairperson Cultural Intuition Pader district attributes the disparities to change in cultural behaviors. Lugai says in the olden times, through the teachings around bon fire ‘(wangoo)’, the youth and elders used to provide food, beddings health among other necessities. This he says gave relief to widowers and widows in the community. He calls for community cultural revival, collaboration amongst locals such that equality in both is attained.

Lugai on Change in Culture-Luo

The international widows Day is observed on 23^rd June each year to address the injustices and poverty faced by millions of widows and their dependents globally.