Parents must protect culture while rejecting harmful traditions

DAR ES SALAAM: CULTURE remains one of the strongest foundations of any society. It shapes identity, teaches values and connects generations.

In Tanzania, culture has for many years united communities through language, food, music, traditional games and social values.

However, as the world changes rapidly, there is a growing concern that some cultural practices and family values are slowly fading away.

Parents have a major responsibility in ensuring children understand their roots and the importance of preserving positive traditions.

While schools, religious institutions and the government all play their role, the first lessons about culture begin at home.

Today, many parents are occupied with work and economic responsibilities, leaving little time to guide their children. Yet children need direction, communication and moral guidance.

If parents fail to pass culture and values to the next generation, young people may grow up disconnected from their identity and community. This does not mean that every tradition should be preserved without question.

Harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and early marriages must continue to be rejected because they violate children’s rights, harm health and limit opportunities, especially for girls.

Culture should build society, not damage lives. What must be protected are the positive aspects of culture that encourage unity, respect, discipline and social responsibility.

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Children should understand their family background, community history and the customs that strengthen society.

This is important at a time when foreign influences through social media and entertainment continue to shape the thinking and behaviour of young people.

The government has continued to support efforts aimed at preserving culture through festivals and public events. Recently, Mwanza hosted the Bulabo Festival, which marked 68 years since its establishment in 1958.

Over the years, the festival has remained an important platform for cultural dances, traditional foods, games and counselling sessions that promote community values and heritage.

Such initiatives deserve support because they help younger generations appreciate Tanzanian identity and traditions. The future of culture depends largely on today’s parents and guardians.

Children learn by listening, observing and participating. Families should therefore create time to teach language, customs, respect and history within their homes and communities.

Modern life should not separate children from their roots. Instead, society must ensure culture continues to move safely and responsibly from one generation to another.