“In their view:” How digital media has ruined Lango’s culture

The rapid growth of digital media in Uganda is transforming how people communicate, access information, and interact with the world. 

However, cultural leaders in Lango say the increasing popularity of social media platforms is contributing to the decline of indigenous values, respect for cultural norms, and traditional ways of life.

A recent report by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) highlights the growing influence of digital platforms among Ugandans.

As of September 2025, WhatsApp remained one of the most widely used platforms with about 10 million subscribers, followed closely by TikTok with 9.3 million users. YouTube had 6.3 million users, Snapchat 2.5 million, Instagram 1.3 million, and X 0.7 million users.

The growing number of users on these platforms, especially among young people, has raised concerns among cultural leaders who say exposure to uncontrolled digital content is influencing behaviour, lifestyles, and attitudes towards traditional values.

They argue that while social media has created opportunities for communication, education, and cultural promotion, it has also accelerated the spread of content that challenges community morals, weakens respect for elders, and encourages lifestyles that conflict with indigenous values.

Sam Ogwang Alunyu, the clan chief of Mwa Otira Tok, says platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube have increased global connectivity but have also exposed young people to trends that are replacing traditional ways of learning and behaving.

“Lango as a tribe had a very important culture that shaped the lives and livelihoods of Lango people, but unfortunately it is getting eroded because of the technology we have today,” Alunyu says.

He explains that many young people are now more attracted to global digital trends than learning indigenous knowledge from elders.

“Traditional rituals, songs, dances, and storytelling are being reduced into short entertainment clips, sometimes losing their original meaning. Storytelling and communal learning have been replaced by digital consumption, weakening the bond between generations,” he adds.

Ogwang Alunyu says some online trends have also contributed to moral decline by encouraging behaviours that were traditionally discouraged.

He notes that in the past, cultural values guided how people dressed, spoke, interacted, and respected elders, but social media influence has changed many of these practices.

“Today, some young people copy what they see online without considering whether it aligns with our values and traditions,” he says.

He adds that digital communication has also affected family relationships and community interaction. In the past, relatives travelled to visit one another, creating strong social connections, but modern technology has reduced such interactions.

“Before, relatives from places like Lira to Oyam would visit one another, but today technology has reduced those interactions because people no longer value physical visits,” he says.

He explains that traditional gatherings where young people learned life lessons from elders have also declined.

“Families used to gather around the fireplace to share riddles, stories, and lessons about traditions. Today, many people spend more time watching videos on social media instead of discussing the future of their families and preserving their culture,” Ogwang Alunyu says.

He warns that when young people are disconnected from cultural teachings, respect for community values and norms may continue to weaken.

To restore fading cultural values, the Mwa Otira Tok clan chief has started initiatives aimed at reconnecting young people with their heritage.

“I have sat down with my subjects and discussed a lot. Every year we have a gathering where we bring back those fading traditions and pass them on to the young ones,” he explains.

Gerald Businge, a multimedia journalism and digital communications consultant and founder of Yaaka Digital Network and Ultimate Media Consult, says social media has both positive and negative effects on society.

“Social media as a form of communication has helped in education, business, and civic engagement. Many people use these platforms to share information, learn new skills, and connect with others,” Businge says.

However, he notes that misuse of digital platforms has contributed to challenges affecting social values.

“A good number of people also contribute to misinformation, cyberbullying, hate speech, and the spread of harmful content without verifying facts,” he says.

Businge says the search for online popularity can sometimes encourage behaviours that conflict with cultural expectations.

“The pursuit of online popularity can encourage behaviours that conflict with cultural norms, particularly when content is driven by trends rather than values,” he explains.

He advises that responsible use of digital platforms requires digital literacy, critical thinking, and respect for others.

“People need to understand that what they share online can have real-world consequences,” he adds.

Meanwhile, some young digital content creators believe social media can also be used to preserve culture.

Sinika Agenowrot, a sports analyst and content creator in the greater Acholi, says digital platforms helped her gain recognition after many people initially underestimated her work.

“People initially undermined my work, but sharing videos on platforms like TikTok and Facebook helped me gain fame and recognition,” Agenowrot says.

She believes digital media can support cultural preservation by allowing young people to access traditional dances, languages, and practices shared online.

Emanuel Aluko, a driver, comedian, and content creator in northern Uganda, says digital media has transformed his life by improving access to information and communication.

“It has enhanced productivity, networking, and the ability to share ideas and experiences with a wider audience,” Aluko says.

As digital technology continues to shape society, cultural leaders argue that communities must find a balance between embracing modern communication and protecting indigenous identity.

They warn that without deliberate efforts to guide young people on responsible digital use, the growing influence of social media may continue to weaken cultural values, respect for elders, and the moral foundation of Lango society.