{UAH} Attn: Ssalongo. 2 Japanese
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For love, Yiga will speak in 'tongues'
Yiga and Dorothy say culture is dynamic and should never be a hindrance for two hearts willing to unite. Photo by Rachel Mabala
Posted Thursday, September 3 2015 at 01:00
In Summary
Crossing borders. She was in her P.7 vacation when they first met, and when he went back to Japan and returned 10 years later, she had blossomed into something else - an object of his affection. Freddie Kakembo spoke to Kenichi Yiga, the Luganda-speaking Japanese and his wife Dorothy on how they will manage the cultural difference.
HIS STORY
Tell me about yourself.
I am Kenichi Shiiya Yiga Omujapani, originally from Hokkaido northern Japan. I am the second born in a family of two. I teach Mathematics and ICT at Hana Mixed Secondary School along Kampala–Masaka Highway.
How did you get your kiganda name and clan?
It was given to me by my first Ugandan friend.
How did you meet your wife?
My wife Dorothy Becky Nalwanga Shiiya and I first met on Christmas in 2005 at the Church of God, Kireka where I had been invited by her elder sister. I was hanging Christmas lights when I touched a naked wire. I got shocked and she was the first person to come to my rescue.
She was in her Primary Seven vacation then. She was still a baby and I had no feelings for her. Actually, I went back to Japan and only returned this year.
So, when did you see her again?
When I returned 10 years later, I went to visit her elder sister and that is when I bumped into her again. When I saw her, my heart skipped a beat. I wondered aloud who this beauty was and I was reminded that she was the little girl who came to my rescue 10 years ago.
We exchanged pleasantries, had a small chat, exchanged phone numbers, and after a few days she called and invited me to her nephew's birthday party. At the party, all guests were asked to introduce themselves and their relationship status. I said I was single and when it came to her turn, she said she was single and searchable. That gave me a hint, but I did not approach her immediately.
What drew you to her?
Her personality, beauty and intellect.
How and when did you open up to her?
I invited her out a number of times before declaring my undying love for her. Although I wanted to pour my heart out the very first time we went out, I chickened out. I took it slow but all indications were clear whenever we were together and by the time I told her, she was not surprised.
Did she accept there and then?
No, she did not. She told me she needed some time to think about it.
How much time did she spend thinking?
Ah, I think about two weeks, but those were my longest two weeks ever. I was very anxious and nervous. I was later told that is how Ugandan girls are. I was relieved when she accepted.
So, why did you choose a Ugandan girl?
First and foremost Ugandan girls are generally beautiful, but Dora is the most beautiful, hardworking, and respectful woman I know. Where on earth do you find women who kneel down [for a man]?
Were you ready for the culture?
Culture is dynamic and in some aspects similar, for instance, in Japan we do not display our affection in public, which is the same here.
What culture shock did you get here?
Not being able to freely interact with my mother-in-law. One time I meant to hug her, and she almost fainted, so these days when we meet, I keep my distance.
What did your family say about your choice of wife?
At first they were skeptical, but I had made up my mind, so they had no choice but to go with my choice. My sister told me if I was happy so be it.
What about her family
Oh... they were very receptive, they gladly received me in their family. I am very happy, to be part of them.
Now that you have a family, where are you going to settle? Here or Japan?
Both. We shall have a home here and in Japan.
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