By Akansasira Junior Victor
Christmas observed annually on December 25th, commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ, a central figure in Christianity. Originating in the early Christian church, the holiday has evolved to encompass both religious and secular traditions worldwide.
At its core, Christmas signifies themes of hope, joy, and goodwill, encouraging reflection on compassion and unity. Christmas is celebrated by billions globally, transcending religious boundaries to become a cultural phenomenon. In many countries, it is a public holiday marked by various customs, including gift-giving, feasting, and community gatherings.
According to a study by WorldRemit, families worldwide spend about 156% of their monthly income on Christmas celebrations, highlighting the economic significance of the holiday.
In Africa, Christmas is a time for family reunions, communal meals, and religious observances. Traditions vary across the continent, but common practices include attending church services, sharing festive meals, and decorating homes. In countries like Uganda, over 80% of the population is Christian, making Christmas a significant holiday, according to the African Media Agencies.
In addition, in Uganda, Christmas, known as ‘Sekukkulu’ or “Nohiri,” is a major holiday celebrated with enthusiasm. Families often travel to their ancestral villages to reunite with loved ones. Preparations begin early, with homes cleaned and decorated, and special meals planned. Church services play a central role, with many attending midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. The festive season is marked by communal activities, music, dance, and sharing of gifts, reflecting the importance of family and community in Ugandan culture.
It is revealed, according to the report from School for Life, that Christmas Eve holds significant socioeconomic importance. It is estimated that as of 2023, Uganda’s GDP per capita was approximately $1,014, reflecting a 5.17% increase from 2022. Projections for 2024 estimate a GDP per capita of around $1,023. Though during the Christmas season, spending patterns often deviate from the annual average.
In Uganda, where the average monthly income is approximately $751, families were expected to spend about $64 during the 2023 Christmas season, marking a 3.2% increase compared to 2022. This seasonal expenditure accounts for roughly 8.5% of the average monthly income, indicating a significant allocation of resources towards holiday celebrations.
The business fraternity, and most importantly, the retail sectors, experience a surge in sales due to last-minute shopping, boosting the economy. Hospitality industries, including hotels and restaurants, see increased patronage from gatherings and events. The festive season stimulates various sectors, from transportation, as people travel to their hometowns, to markets bustling with the sale of food and decorations. This economic activity provides temporary employment opportunities and income for many, contributing to the local economy.
Merrymaking is enormous as the Christmas season offers a couple of mammoth benefits, like providing a break from academic routines, opportunities for play, and the chance to learn cultural traditions. Engaging in family activities fosters a sense of belonging and creates lasting memories.
The holidays offer time to bond with children, reflect on family values, and participate in communal activities. It also provides a respite from work, allowing for relaxation and rejuvenation.
By and by, we need each other in 2025. Those of you who love the books of Chinua Achebe will remember his words in Things Fall Apart: “Feasts are a time to gather and rejoice, but the yam that is pounded too much loses its flavour. So too do celebrations, when stretched beyond reason, leave a bitter aftertaste.”
We need to take cautionary measures during Christmas celebrations.
Avoiding Overspending: The festive season often leads to financial strain due to excessive spending. It’s crucial to budget wisely to prevent debt and financial hardship in the new year. Prioritizing essential expenses and avoiding unnecessary purchases can help maintain financial stability.
Remember, days after the Eve, schools are opening, and headteachers or school directors will not want to hear your hullabaloo.
Increased travel and celebrations can lead to a rise in accidents. Some drive while drunk, overexcited with new cars, parties, long drives to the villages, and wearisome journeys. Adhering to traffic regulations, avoiding drunk driving, and ensuring the use of safe modes of transportation are vital to reducing the risk of accidents.
Festive activities may lead to health risks, including the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). This normally affects the youth as they yearn for quick things and enjoyment. Engaging in responsible behaviour, such as practicing safe sex and moderating alcohol consumption, is essential to safeguard health.
Let’s remember that there is life after the Christmas season. The stress of the holiday season can sometimes exacerbate domestic tensions, potentially leading to conflicts, including gender-based violence (GBV). Open communication, managing expectations, and seeking support when needed can help maintain harmonious relationships.
In a nutshell, I want to remind all African Christmas celebrants that all were encapsulated in the old days, and my article is just a reminder. Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, in The River Between, says: “In the dance of festivals, the feet move freely, but the mind should tread carefully; for the one who leaps too high may land among thorns.” A Merry Christmas Eve to you all, 2024.
The writer is a Global Schools Mentor on SDGs, Patriot and Pan Africanist/[email protected].
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