Camp Fire (Etem), a Significant Sign of Increased Unity in Teso Culture

The campfire gathering, depending on availability, the modest women of good repute served the local brew, locally known as Ajon, to the congregants to drink.

By
Agnes Atewo
-
20
Teso
A group of youth seen setting up a campfire during the Iteso Cultural Union as the elders look on. Photo by: Ronald Odongo

In Teso culture, the campfire (Etem Iteso) holds significant importance and plays a vital role in the community’s social, cultural, and spiritual life, especially in promoting unity among the people of Teso.

Teso
Some of the elders (cultural leaders) explaining the significance of campfire in the Teso culture, at Iteso Cultural Union in Soroti City. Photo by: Ronald Odongo

According to Emasu Ogwelan, one of the founding members of the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), who is currently working as the advisor to His Royal Highness Emorimor Papa Iteso during the campfire gathering on July 19, 2024, the campfire played a significant role in the life of Iteso culture as it promoted unity.

“This campfire symbolizes unity and brings people together, fostering a sense of community and belonging. So, through this gathering, there was unity among the Teso community since conflicts were resolved,” Emasu said.

Teso
Some ladies serving elders and cultural leaders the local brew known as Ajon during the Iteso Cultural Union campfire in Soroti City. Photo by: Ronald Odongo

He further said that during the campfire gathering, depending on availability, the modest women of good repute served the local brew, locally known as Ajon, to the congregants to drink.

Emasu added that the local brew made of millet flour could be served in either calabashes or pots, which could be rotated from person to person to share a sip as a means of displaying the spirit of love or spiritual connection used in rituals to communicate with ancestors and the divine.

Teso
Some of the young ladies preparing the local brew known as Ajon for the elders at the campfire as a man stands holding wooden straws during the Iteso Cultural Union in Soroti City. Photo by: Ronald Odongo

He also said that the campfire was a platform for sharing stories, legends, and histories, passing down cultural knowledge and values, and some cultural rituals and ceremonies. During this time, elders also gathered around the campfire to share wisdom, guidance, and advice with younger generations.

Emasu further revealed that the campfire also provided physical comfort and warmth to the Teso people, especially during cold nights, adding that it symbolized the Teso cultural identity and heritage, connecting the community to their roots.

Teso
Some of the youth dancing during the Iteso Cultural Union campfire in Soroti City. Photo by: Ronald Odongo

He emphasized that the community got news and updates, and so it served as a hub for sharing ideas about how information was passed within the community.

The campfire (Etem in Iteso) is an integral part of Teso culture, representing unity, cultural heritage, and community bonding. Therefore, the Teso people have been gathering around campfires for generations, sharing stories, socializing, and passing down cultural traditions.

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