Minority Abagabu group asks for recognition

Kasese, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Abagabu minority tribes are demanding recognition from the government. The Abagabu reside mainly around the shores of Lake George, Kazinga channel, and Edward in Kasese district, Bunyangabu, Rubirizi, and Kitagwenda districts.

The Banyakitara-speaking people have an estimated population of between 35,000 and 40,000 people and are traditionally a fishing community. They are also engaged in salt mining in Lake Katwe.

During the sleeping sickness outbreak in the 1900s, they were moved from their homes and quarantined. In 1952 when Queen Elizabeth National Park was gazetted by the government, they were forced out of their homes in the islands into neighboring districts.

Peter Busobozi Force, the Chairperson Abagabu in Uganda said that because they are not officially recognized by the constitution, they do not have full access to all government services and are treated as uncivilized people with nothing to contribute to the country’s development.

He says that it is a fundamental right for the group to be recognized given its uniqueness from other communities in the country.

Sunday Ali Bamunoba, a Mugabu from Kasenyi noted that it is unfortunate that many of them have been forced to change their names and speak the language of the dominant tribes in order to fit in and access vital public services. He adds that if they are recognized it will help them have a sense of belonging and that they would also start on development projects without fear of being displaced by other major tribes.

Peter Businge said that because they are not recognized, there has been less development because people are uncertain of their security where they are staying. He added that Bagabu have a high level of illiteracy because of poor access to schools.

Samuel Asiimwe, the Lake Katwe Sub County Chairperson is afraid that without official protection, the Bagabu could face extinction.

Elisha Mugisha Ateenyi, the cultural leader of the Banyabindi minority tribe and chairperson of minority tribes in Uganda said independent cultures need to be recognized by other tribes.

He said, they recently held a meeting under the Minority Rights Group International and suggested petitioning the Speaker of Parliament that all minority tribes be recognized.

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