{UAH} Genesis and implications of Uganda's fifteen nations

Every time there is discussion regarding federalism, the fifteen nations including their flags and anthems are mentioned. This is what happened at the London conference on federalism in October 2012 (flags were hoisted and some anthems sang) and at subsequent efforts to forge a common position on federalism. The fifteen nations have been widely publicized but none has explained what they mean including their genesis and implications, creating difficulties how to fit them into the federalism work we are doing.

Many Ugandans wish to know the genesis of the 15 nations. Did they evolve from the clan system into tribes and now nations? Were they imposed by colonial officials for administrative convenience and we now find them convenient for our purposes and should be maintained? What were the criteria used? What constitutes a nation? How were the boundaries drawn up and who did it? For example, are Kigezi, Ankole and Toro still nations or were they ever nations? What was the position at the time of negotiating the independence constitution regarding these nations – discussions were based on tribes but what is a tribe? Should there be an agreement on the fifteen nations can we use them as a basis for negotiating federalism or should we envisage some proposed changes? What would happen if there are some proposals of a complex nature and serious implications? Do we resolve this before moving on regarding how we should be governed in post-NRM regime? The way Uganda should be governed will be one of the first items on the agenda and federalism will be among the proposals. We should begin discussing these matters now so we know where we stand before a new government is formed. I don't believe in the notion that we should cross the river when we get to it. We must build the energy to cross the river before we get there otherwise we could drown for lack of practice.

There are some Ugandans who don't want these matters discussed? We don't know the rationale – but recent developments regarding secession are beginning to give a hint. We should entertain transparent and inclusive debate about the future of Uganda. For a start, those who have been championing the fifteen nations' project should come forward and explain to the public that is anxiously waiting.     

Eric Kashambuzi                     

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