MWANZA, June 8 -- Mwanza Regional Commissioner Saidi Mtanda has urged Tanzanians to preserve their cultural heritage while rejecting harmful traditional practices, saying culture remains the cornerstone of national identity, unity and lasting peace.

Speaking on Sunday during the opening of the week long Bulabo Cultural Festival at the Red Cross Grounds in Kisesa, Misungwi District, Mr Mtanda said culture plays a critical role in shaping society and strengthening social cohesion.

“Culture is the identity of every individual and every nation. A nation without culture is like a dead nation,” he said.

He noted that while cultural traditions should be celebrated and protected, communities must abandon outdated and harmful practi...