Govt says plotting Lusoga lectures at Makerere University

_____________

In an effort to promote Uganda’s indigenous languages, the Government says it is planning to officially launch the teaching of Lusoga at Makerere University.

Lusoga, which is among the most spoken languages in Uganda, is a Bantu language spoken by over five million people, mainly in eastern Uganda's Busoga region.

Gender minister Peace Mutuuzo says Lusoga is a mother tongue that represents the culture of the Basoga and other Ugandans, noting that promoting it will help preserve the country’s cultural heritage.

Mutuuzo made the remarks on February 19, 2026, while addressing journalists at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala city.

According to Mutuuzo, the launch will be held alongside celebrations to mark International Mother Language Day and will bring together policymakers, cultural leaders and language promoters.

She revealed that Kyabazinga (Busoga king) William Gabula Nadiope IV is expected to be the chief guest at the event scheduled for February 28, 2026, at Makerere University Main Hall.

Mutuuzo emphasised the importance of teaching indigenous languages, saying they play a key role in improving learning and preserving identity, and she added that this year’s theme as Language matters, harnessing technology to document and develop Uganda’s indigenous languages will guide efforts to promote and develop local languages.

The launch is expected to strengthen the documentation, teaching and use of Lusoga and other indigenous languages across the country.