Bakenyi Identity Under Threat as Traditional Livelihoods Shrink

The Bakenyi, historically known for their close ties to Lake Kyoga and a tradition of fishing, find themselves at a cultural crossroads. Migrating from Buganda between the 17th and 18th centuries, they established themselves in the Teso region, becoming a unique ethnic group alongside the Iteso. For generations, fishing was their primary occupation, a skill they even shared with the Iteso, who primarily engaged in cattle rearing and farming.

However, changing times and government regulations against illegal fishing on Lake Kyoga have forced many Bakenyi to abandon their ancestral livelihood. This shift has led them to pursue farming, despite facing challenges with land ownership, as vast tracts are controlled by the dominant Iteso community.

Adding to these pressures, elders report increasing segregation and discrimination from the current generation of Iteso, a stark contrast to the cordial relations of past centuries. This perceived exclusion extends to accessing government development programs, leaving the Bakenyi feeling marginalized.

The erosion of their traditional economic base is now impacting their cultural identity. Many Bakenyi elders express concern that younger generations are losing their distinct Lukenye dialect, increasingly adopting Ateso and even changing their names to assimilate. This assimilation is a significant worry for the community’s future.

Community leaders are calling for affirmative action to support the Bakenyi people. They propose initiatives like fish ponds and fish cages to revive aspects of their traditional fishing heritage and provide sustainable economic alternatives. The community plans to engage with the Equal Opportunities Commission to address the visible segregation they are experiencing and seek solutions to preserve their heritage for future generations.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)