I think we Africans can learn a lot from Papua New Guinea, especially now in Africa, when many of our traditional values are slowly being eroded by modernity and Western influences.
Most of the people of Papua New Guinea hold on to their cultural and traditional values. Sometimes, this is looked down upon as something of the past, archaic or outdated, but it is part of what identifies a people. As we lose our traditions, we also lose our identity as a people. Papua New Guineans hold on to their traditions. They are very proud of their traditions and customs. You can see this even in their celebrations. We have seen some of this during Pope Francis’ visit. The celebrations are usually very colourful. People express their culture and who they are proudly.
But beyond face paintings and colourful attire, you will find that in most places, especially places outside of towns, taboos, which form part of the norms of what to do and what not to do in a society, are still strong, and they are taken very, very seriously here.
I agree that we shouldn’t preserve everything about our African customs and traditions, but some of the most important aspects that make us who we are as Africans should be guarded jealously.
Source: Vatican News
