Some of the things that make the world a better place is knowing who we are, where we come from and who our people are. In ancient Africa, recorded history, particularly that of Uganda was documented by foreign administrators, missionaries and explorers. However, the Ugandan natives had their own administration where the people were organized in Kingdoms and Chiefdoms, as well as clans and tribes. This kept them intact with their origin and generational flow, making the country's genealogical heritage preserved by the memories of its elders. The traditions and culture passed down to generations today is a vital source of historical information.
However, the loss of elders due to age or other factors poses a significant threat to the preservation of this knowledge. As they outgrow the world, they are lost in our sights, those that live long enough are unable to hold onto and rely on their memories, and with this, valuable information slips away without being passed on to the future generations. Given the limited accessibility of written genealogical records in Uganda, researchers heavily rely on oral histories. The most valuable sources of this information are often the immediate elders within families who have inherited knowledge from their predecessors.
An effective way to conduct genealogical research in Uganda is approaching the elders with respect and preparedness. One should also consider making an alert in advance before meeting with the elderly to allow them to get prepared for the provision of relevant and accurate information. In addition to that, interviewing multiple Elders within a community is also crucial, as similar accounts from different sources can corroborate the accuracy of the information.
Under Uganda's traditional administration lies Ethnic groups, such as those in Buganda. They are organized into clans with hierarchical structures and headed by clan leaders. Clan leaders possess extensive knowledge of their family history and genealogical connections and play a vital role in preserving oral traditions passed down to them from their elders. Some clan leaders particularly in Buganda have maintained written records that date back many generations, providing valuable insights into their family history.
By engaging with elders, respecting local customs, and exploring both oral and written sources, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of Uganda's rich genealogical heritage. This approach not only helps preserve historical knowledge but also fosters a sense of connection to the past and promotes cultural continuity.
Here are some of the other ways you can find your ancestors using some of the readily available genealogical sources of information. They may be limited and challenging to access in the country, but not impossible to acquire.
Birth Notifications
The administrative offices in Uganda encompass districts or municipalities, counties, sub-counties, parishes, and local village councils. Each district serves as the primary government administrative centre in a specific geographical area. Every district has an appointed resident district commissioner and a chief administrative officer, who represent the central government as administrators and technocrats, respectively. Municipalities are equivalent to districts within urbanized areas. These centres act as repositories for all birth notifications in their respective geographical locations.
Population Census Records
Population censuses in Uganda are intended to be conducted every ten years by the National Bureau of Statistics. The first population census was held in 1911. Due to civil wars and logistical challenges, subsequent censuses have not been carried out regularly. Nonetheless, relevant genealogical information can be found in the existing census records at the Bureau offices.
Land Records
Land records in Uganda are among the earliest records created, originating from the widely known 1900 Buganda Agreement, which facilitated the allotment of land. During that time, many residents did not possess land titles. They inhabited large areas of land owned by a few individuals with titles of ownership. Those without titles were known as squatters and were obliged to pay tribute to the landlords, receiving payment receipts in return. Copies of these receipts can provide genealogical information about the individuals who settled in a specific area. Squatters retained the original copies of these receipts, while a copy was held by the landlord and another at the regional land office.
Probate Records
Probate records are generated when an individual submits a petition to the court requesting a grant of probate. This grant is presented to the administrator general, who issues letters of administration to a trusted family member. The Office of the Administrator General is in Kampala and does not have any branches throughout the country. This office holds genealogical information about individuals who own property along with their spouses and children, as documented in the copies of letters of administration.
Marriage Records
Marriages in Uganda are registered by the registrar of marriages under the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB). To obtain a copy of a marriage certificate, an individual must submit a written request along with proof of payment of the applicable fee to the bureau's office. The requester must then wait for a call from the URSB to collect a copy of the marriage certificate.
For those seeking professional genealogical assistance with research in Uganda, Kenya, and other East African Community countries, Charles Kasozi Sekirangi is available for hire.
Written by Charles Kasozi Sekirangi. Used with permission.
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