Many of Uganda’s major tribes trace their recognition back to much earlier times, particularly as referenced in Section 2 of the pre-independence Constitution of Uganda.
This constitution was drafted in 1961 by over 110 eminent personalities representing various regions and political interests, during a historic meeting in London.
Several regions, including Buganda, Busoga, Ankole, and Bugisu, had ancient names before adopting the ones they are known by today.
Buganda was known as Muwawa in the 13th and 14th centuries, a name meaning “a place that was not well populated.”
Ankole was formerly called Kaaro Karungi.
Busoga was originally known as Usoga, possibly named after a small hill in the area.
The Karamoja people (originally the Jie) migrated from Ethiopia to Uganda around 500 years ago. Due to exhaustion, they could not move further, and the name Karamoja evolved from the Lugisu phrase eker ngimojong—meaning “no further movement,” or, conversely, basakhulu baluile meaning “the old men are tied.”
Kapchorwa District was known as Sebei District until 1980.
Kabale was known as Kigezi or simply as the land of the “people of the Highlands.”
Regarding the Bugisu region, some voices now advocate for changing the tribal name from “Bugisu” to “Bamasaaba,” since the Bamasaaba are the people who live in Bugisu. The distinction is similar to the difference between the place and the people.
Historically, about 200 years ago, the people living in Bugisu (also known as Masaabaland) were largely isolated. Movement beyond their homes was limited due to dangers from marauding animals and a lack of external errands or trade. It is even plausible to suggest that people in areas like Bukalasi feared Arab and European traders who were involved in the slave trade or conscription for war.
My great-grandfather Nasasa, born around 1870, had only one name—similar to Moses in the Bible. The region was highly enclosed and protected.
Steven Masiga
Spokesperson, Bugisu Cultural Institution
Tel: 0782231577
