Kara-Tunga, an ethical tourism company specialising in cultural and adventure tours in Uganda’s less-travelled Karamoja sub-region, launched a new video documentary highlighting the impact of the Kara-Tunga Foundation’s Ik Community Cultural Tourism Project in honour of UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage Day.
This initiative aims to empower the Ik people, an indigenous community residing in Uganda's Karamoja region, to preserve their cultural heritage and build a sustainable future through responsible tourism.
How is the project making a difference?
- Preserving traditions: Kara-Tunga is documenting the Ik's captivating oral history, legends, myths and traditional skills. Elders guide the process, ensuring knowledge is passed down to youth who then integrate these stories into engaging tourist experiences and visual narratives.
- Empowerment through tourism: The Kara-Tunga Eco Camps, within the Ik community, offer job opportunities and market linkages. A portion of each booking directly supports community development initiatives. Cultural tourism activities provide a platform for the Ik to showcase their heritage while generating income.
- Safeguarding for the future: The British Council's Cultural Protection Fund recognises Kara-Tunga’s commitment. Its support facilitates ongoing documentation and creation of engaging experiences, ensuring this heritage exists for future generations.
Watch this video by Ugandan Filmmaker and Photographer Eric Mukalazi to learn more about the Ik people.
