Book Review: A History of Bunyoro Kitara by A.R Dunbar

Summary

As the title suggests, The History of Bunyoro Kitara narrates the story of Bunyoro Kitara from the rule of the gods through to independence—both for the kingdom and Uganda as a whole. The author captures the social, political, and economic developments throughout the history of the Banyoro-speaking people. Power struggles feature prominently in chapters covering Kabarega's reign, his exile, the rule of Baganda chiefs in Bunyoro, the Banyoro's Nyangire rebellions, and the imposition of indirect rule. Under Kabarega's leadership, the Bunyoro Kitara Empire faced major resistance as the British, rallying behind the Baganda, frustrated his efforts at every turn.

Analysis

Reading this book, I was particularly impressed by the raw traditions and beliefs of the Banyoro, especially their belief in Ruhanga as the creator of heaven and earth. What makes the Banyoro creation story unique is Ruhanga's brother, Nkya, who complained that life was dull because nothing had been created. Ruhanga, who initially lived in space, responded by creating heaven and earth. He flung a stone into the air, and it became the sun—but its heat oppressed Nkya, who had no shade. Ruhanga then flung another stone, which became the moon. Many creations followed, each at the request of or in response to Nkya's dissatisfaction. One could argue that, according to the Banyoro, Nkya was the inspiration for creation itself.

The belief in a supreme creator was not unique to the Banyoro but common to societies worldwide. This parallel becomes evident with the arrival of missionaries who introduced Christianity, bringing their own belief in heaven, earth, and subsequent creations—a notion that resonated with existing Banyoro cosmology.

Another unforgettable part of this book chronicles the invasion of Bunyoro Kitara by aliens—the early European travelers, including Samuel Baker and Gordon. Gordon left little mark in Bunyoro because Kabarega, who was reconquering the empire of his forebears, refused to put it at the disposal of Egypt or any other foreign power. Despite Kabarega's intransigence, he established good relations with one European: Emin Pasha. This rapport stemmed from Emin Pasha's respect for the Banyoro, his linguistic abilities, and his unfailing personal ascendancy. As the author notes on page 83, "Emin carried out his mission successfully and made a settlement under which Kabarega was guaranteed either an annual grant of money or presents."

Under colonial administration, Bunyoro experienced both economic and political advancement, though not without challenges. A period of depression, for instance, necessitated sympathetic administration.

The book concludes by examining the impact of Europeans—particularly the British—on Bunyoro Kitara and its people. The first Europeans were entirely at the mercy of Mukama Kamurasi. As the author writes on page 260, "such was their novelty and personality that they were able to do what they wanted, but not without procrastination and difficulty." With the British, this dynamic reversed entirely. They proved far more formidable adversaries to Kabarega and Bunyoro Kitara. "The British came to Bunyoro Kitara as conquerors. They had defeated and captured Kabarega, destroyed his armies and his administration, and laid waste his kingdom. In Buganda, the exact opposite had happened."

Strengths

The book is well researched and well written. The author draws on numerous sources—an entire chapter is dedicated to discussing them. Reading this book deepened my understanding and appreciation of the Banyoro, their beliefs, culture, and achievements. The Banyoro live in closely knit communities and view outsiders with suspicion, especially those seeking to usurp their power. Having read little history during my schooling, I found this book particularly refreshing and educational.

Weaknesses

While not seemingly bulky, this book demands commitment to read and understand. However, this doesn't diminish its value—every good thing comes at a price.

Recommendations

I recommend this work to lovers of history, particularly African history. It is rich in detail, and readers will appreciate the author's generous use of explanations and photographic representations. Anyone seeking to understand the history of the Banyoro and their kings should read this book.