Babwisi people

Last updated
Babwisi people
Regions with significant populations
Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Languages
Lubwisi, English
Religion
Traditional African religion
Christianity
Related ethnic groups
Nyoro, Haya, Toro, Hema, Hunde, Nkore

The Babwisi people are a Bantu-speaking tribe found in South-Western Uganda and the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Uganda, they primarily inhabit the Bundibugyo district around the Semiliki River and surrounding areas. They speak the Lubwisi language and are known for their traditional practices and close-knit community structures. [1] [2]

Contents

Culture

The Babwisi practice traditional dances using local drums called Amakondere during festivities. They practice agriculture, cultivating crops such as millet and cassava, and engage in animal rearing for subsistence. [3] [ AI-generated source ]

History

The Babwisi have historically lived along the slopes of Mount Rwenzori near the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They originally settled in the Semiliki and Lamia River areas but were evicted in 1920 by the colonial government following an outbreak of sleeping sickness. [4]

The Babwisi people are culturally and linguistically related to other Bantu-speaking groups in the region, including the Nyoro, Haya, Toro, Hema, Hunde, and Nkore.

Image

View of the Bundibugyo district, home to the Babwisi people Hills in Bundibugyo district in western Uganda 01.jpg
View of the Bundibugyo district, home to the Babwisi people

See also

References

  1. "Bamba-Babwisi Communities Seek to Reoccupy Part of Semuliki National Park". Uganda Radionetwork. Retrieved 2025-02-18.
  2. Reporter, Independent (2020-10-31). "Bamba-Babwisi communities seek to reoccupy part of Semuliki national park". The Independent Uganda. Retrieved 2025-02-18.
  3. "The Rich Cultural Tapestry of the Bamba-Babwisi People - Right for Education". 2023-11-25. Retrieved 2025-02-18.
  4. URN (2020-11-08). "Bamba-Babwisi want ancestral land in Semuliki national park back". The Observer. Retrieved 2025-02-18.