Tachoni Cultural site secured: Plans for afforestation underway

A significant cultural milestone has been achieved in Webuye East Constituency with the acquisition and planned restoration of the Tachoni cultural site, Esitavicha. This development, led by CPA Thomas Isoka Nakitare, popularly known as Isevele, marks a vital step in preserving the heritage of the Tachoni community.

What began as a celebration for the initiation of Isevele’s son into manhood, alongside other initiates, has culminated in the purchase of this revered cultural site. For years, the Tachoni community, primarily based in Webuye East, has appealed to leaders to secure and protect these cultural grounds, which are crucial for the final rites of passage for boys transitioning into manhood. However, many of these sites, historically located in Namwatikho, Lunyu, Mautuma, and other areas, have suffered from neglect, deforestation, and encroachment due to private ownership.

“These sites were sacred to our forefathers. Every man in our community has undergone initiation here,” said Sifuma Museve, a respected elder. “It pains us to see them invaded and degraded. The privacy once accorded to the initiates is now lost, with spectators and even children observing from a distance, which is a serious taboo in our culture.”

In response to a call from the elders, Isevele took action and purchased two acres of land to safeguard its cultural significance for future generations. The plan includes launching an afforestation program during the long rains in April, where indigenous trees will be planted to restore the site’s sanctity and privacy.

“We will mobilize community leaders and other stakeholders to participate in this afforestation effort,” Isevele affirmed. “Preserving our cultural heritage is not just an obligation but a responsibility we owe to our ancestors and future generations.”

This move has been met with widespread praise from community elders, who have encouraged other leaders to join the initiative. “There is more land available in the area,” said one elder, who preferred to remain anonymous. “Other leaders should follow Isevele’s example and help expand the cultural site for the benefit of our community.”

Despite the praise, some community members have expressed dissatisfaction with Isevele’s actions, claiming that he hijacked their plans for acquiring the site. These individuals, who have made promises during electoral campaigns but failed to take action afterward, argue that the move undermined their efforts. “For years, community elders have pleaded for leaders to help secure this land, but these cries have fallen on deaf ears,” admitted one elder. “Isevele simply stepped in where others ignored the call.”

Elders and residents have criticized these individuals for their empty promises, stressing the need for unity and action in preserving the community’s cultural heritage.

Isevele revealed that he had to reallocate funds from other projects to respond to the urgent plea of the elders. “As leaders, we must provide solutions when called upon. I couldn’t sit back and watch as our elders lamented over a problem that has been ignored for too long,” he stated.

“My goal is to empower our people socially and economically while fostering peaceful coexistence. We will continue supporting initiatives that transform our society,” he concluded.

This milestone in cultural preservation not only emphasizes the importance of safeguarding heritage but also sets a precedent for community-driven leadership.