• By Denis Omony | Anaka, Nwoya District – August 6, 2025

The vibrant rhythms of music, the grace of traditional dance, and the captivating storytelling of drama filled the air at Anaka Catholic Parish Hall as the Nwoya District Music, Dance, and Drama Competition officially kicked off.

This annual event, a celebration of cultural heritage and youthful talent, has drawn schools from across the district to compete for the coveted opportunity to represent Nwoya at the regional meet scheduled for August 15-17, 2025, at Restore Leadership Academy in Amuru District.

Anaka Primary School, the reigning regional title holder, is at the center of attention as it seeks to defend its crown. The school’s previous triumph at the regional level has set a high bar, with students showcasing exceptional performances that blend traditional Acholi cultural elements with modern artistic flair. This year, competitors from other schools in Nwoya’s 8 sub-counties and 33 parishes are determined to challenge Anaka Primary’s dominance, bringing their own unique interpretations of music, dance, and drama to the stage.

The competition, held at the heart of Anaka—the administrative seat of Nwoya District—is more than just a showcase of talent. It serves as a platform for youth to express their creativity, preserve cultural traditions, and address social issues through performances that often tackle themes like peace, unity, and education. Local leaders and educators have praised the event for fostering community pride and encouraging students to engage with their heritage.

“We are thrilled to host this year’s competition at Anaka Catholic Parish Hall,” said a spokesperson for the Nwoya District Education Department. “These young performers are not only showcasing their talents but also telling the stories of our people and inspiring hope for a brighter future.”

The winner of the district competition will earn the honor of representing Nwoya at the regional meet in Amuru District, where schools from across the Northern Region of Uganda will vie for supremacy. The event at Restore Leadership Academy is expected to draw significant attention, with top performers advancing to higher levels of competition. Anaka Primary School’s track record makes it a formidable contender, but rival schools are bringing fierce competition, promising a thrilling showdown.

Spectators at the Anaka Catholic Parish Hall have been treated to a colorful array of performances, from intricate traditional dances accompanied by drumming to dramatic skits addressing contemporary issues like environmental conservation and gender equality. The energy and passion of the students have captivated audiences, with community members and parents turning out in large numbers to cheer on the participants.

As the competition progresses, all eyes are on whether Anaka Primary School can maintain its winning streak or if a new champion will emerge to represent Nwoya at the regional stage. The event underscores the district’s commitment to nurturing young talent and preserving cultural heritage, making it a highlight of the community calendar.

For those unable to attend, updates on the competition’s progress are being shared through local community networks, with the final results expected to be announced by the end of the week. The road to the regional meet in Amuru promises to be an exciting journey for Nwoya’s young stars.