Ask "Imuka" Why Cultural Understanding Matters

Imuka is a choral music and cultural dance group founded in 2009.  Their mission within COSAD is to use the platform of choral music and cultural dance to promote economic development in their communities, and to foster cultural ties with the world.  

Since its beginning, Imuka has been a pivotal part of the culture of COSAD, but I find that sometimes it is not the easiest aspect of COSAD to explain.  It is easier to defend projects like the clinic, the OWOG program, or an educational program, because individuals freely agree these things are important.  Statistics and other reports have proven the number of people living without satisfactory medical services, people living in poor areas without suitable income to take care of their families, and schools struggling to find teachers, resources and supplies to give their students a fighting change in the global economy.  

But what about culture?  If every program within COSAD costs valuable time, energy and money, why would we use resources for a program based on promoting culture? 

1. Song and dance is an important part of culture in East Africa, which makes Imuka incredibly relevant.

Imuka means “RISE” in the local language. Song and dance is a very effective way to reach local people, encourage positive change, promote new ideas, build our programs, and facilitate effective partnerships.


2. Imuka builds cultural ties with the world.

Imuka builds cultural understanding and appreciation within COSAD’s international networks of friends and partners.  For me, building relationships in a new culture has been incredibly rewarding and beneficial, but has potential to be difficult at times (especially with a language barrier)!  The people who are involved in programs like Imuka understand what cultural differences are all about. Many of them have either traveled overseas with Imuka, or have hosed COSAD partners who are from a different country. They are willing to learn things about my culture, and they help me to gradually recognize, embrace, and enjoy Tanzania's culture.    


3. Imuka contributes to the economic development in their communities, especially COSAD programs and projects. 

Imuka travels internationally not only to showcase the unique culture of East Africa, but to raise awareness about COSAD’s work in Tanzania, sell merchandise made through the micro-enterprise projects, connect volunteers with local programs, and raise funds. 

Two significant connections were made in Imuka's most recent USA tours. COSAD connected with Edina Covenant Church who became one of the COSAD Clinic’s main financial supporters, and I was introduced to COSAD which opened the opportunity for me to become a long-term volunteer. 


4. Imuka promotes excellence, and seeks to preserve and share East African music and dance for generations to come through COSAD’s new social enterprise. 

The new Imuka Recording Studio (opened Oct. 2014) exists to reach the local community to inspire, preserve, and showcase talent and culture to the world.  It is a place where individuals, youth, and choirs come to be mentored and gain valuable information.  It is a place where global connections are possible through international tours and CD sales.  It is a place where artists come to record music at an affordable cost, and where the profits will go back into community development and sustainability.  It is a place of empowerment and hope, where your voice can be heard, and where culture is celebrated. 

And yes, outside of all of these things, choral music is absolutely our CEO’s passion. :) 

Posted by brittanyinbukoba Print this post

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Labels: Imuka Choir & Recording Studio

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