The changing roles of traditional cultural institutions in Uganda : the case of Busoga 1894-2010

Abstract

The study examined the changing roles of traditional cultural institutions in Uganda: The case of Busoga 1894-2010. The study set out to establish the nature and functions of political institutions in Busoga during pre-colonial era when the Basoga were managing their social, political and economic affairs basing on the indigenous setting. It sought to identify the changes made in the traditional institutions during colonial and post-colonial rule in Busoga, as well as to examine the effects of these changes on the position of the indigenous cultural institutions. The study used qualitative research approach and research instruments included questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions and content analysis of documents. The study established that the nature and role of the traditional institution and its leadership in Busoga has changed overtime from the pre-colonial, through colonial and post-colonial Uganda. The traditional cultural leaders have been side- lined from the centre of the political and economic life of the Basoga and relegated to ceremonial role and parasitic patrons of the Uganda state. The study recommends that traditional leadership needs to re-invent and identify themselves with the problems and aspirations of their subjects within the Uganda Constitutional framework, in order to regain relevance and esteem among the people as before.