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Makerere University is raising a toast to two of Uganda’s most esteemed literary scholars, Arthur Gakwandi, 81, and Austin Bukenya, 80.

Their illustrious careers, spanning several decades, have enriched Ugandan literature with a captivating blend of storytelling and social commentary.

From Bukenya’s thought-provoking narratives to Gakwandi’s unforgettable characters, these literary icons have not only entertained readers, but also challenged them to confront the complexities of Uganda’s past, present, and future.

Gakwandi and Bukenya can be considered the very foundation stones upon which Makerere’s literary reputation is built. 

Gakwandi’s novel Kosiya Kifefe was the first novel by a Ugandan author to be included on A-level literature reading lists. This seminal work delves into the challenges of post-colonial Uganda through the captivating life story of the main character Kosiya Kifefe. 

Gakwandi does not shy away from social commentary, weaving themes of political intrigue, nascent social inequalities, and the rise of a middle class into the gripping narratives.

This captivating novel not only entertains but also calls upon readers to confront the realities of a newly independent African nation. The result is a powerful exploration of growing up in a nation grappling with its post-colonial identity, all delivered with a fresh and thought-provoking voice.

Bukenya, affectionately referred to as “Mwalimu” (teacher) in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, is a champion of orature, as well as local languages such as Luganda and Kiswahili. His influence transcends borders, and his legacy is a testament to the unifying power of the written word.

Gakwandi and Bukenya’s impact goes beyond the printed page. 

Both men dedicated themselves to nurturing the next generation of storytellers. As dedicated teachers and mentors, they ignited a passion for literature in countless students, some of whom now grace the same halls they once walked.

Even in retirement, their presence lingers, a guiding light for aspiring minds.

This Friday (April 5), in an event aptly titled “Celebrating Literary Legends: Gakwandi and Bukenya@80”, Makerere University students and scholars will recognize, celebrate, and debate the profound contributions of Gakwandi and Bukenya to the university’s literary landscape and beyond. 

Prof. Susan Kiguli, the chairperson of the organising committee, says the event is an opportunity “to promote critical debate and advance awareness of homegrown talent and outstanding service to humanity beyond Makerere’s century of existence".

“In the spirit of continually drawing attention to our work and accomplishments at Makerere University, the Department of Literature will showcase oral performances from the students, readings, a keynote address by Prof. Abasi Kiyimba and a panel discussion of Gakwandi and Bukenya scholars on Friday between 2pm and 6pm in MUK’s Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium,” said Kiguli.

"Most of the activities of the day will be carried out by students from the Department of Literature in a bid to inspire them to think of the importance of following the work of our scholars and practitioners. 

Arthur Gakwandi also has a passion for golf. (Credit: Michael Nsubuga)

"This effort aims at focusing on Gakwandi and Bukenya’s monumental achievements and promoting creative writing, critical debate, and cultural production within Makerere University, Uganda, and beyond."

'Strong symbol of EAC unity'

Dr Edgar Nabutanyi, the Head of the Literature Department at Makerere University, said Gakwandi and Bukenya are widely celebrated beyond Uganda’s borders. 

“Mwalimu Bukenya, as he is famously known, is a household literary name in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania,” he said.

"He is acclaimed for his foundational work together with his teacher Pio Zirimu on orature, and particularly for coining the term that has proved pivotal in defining and developing the crucial field of African literature. 

"Mwalimu Bukenya has been hailed as a strong symbol of the spirit of East African unity, having started at the University of Dar es Salaam, graduating from there with a First-Class degree and then teaching in both Uganda and Kenya in addition to developing textbooks on English language and literature courses for the region,” explained Nabutanyi.

“Professor Gakwandi is widely celebrated for his foundational work on the African novel particularly for his book The Novel and Contemporary Experience in Africa published in 1977 and still used as a reference point up to today."

Both Gakwandi and Bukenya are pivotal figures in the life of the Department of Literature and Makerere University, where they have devotedly taught as well as supported seminal research, and mentored, even in their retirement, current staff. 

This Friday's celebration is in recognition of the importance of their service to Makerere University and their outstanding contribution to Uganda, East Africa, and Africa’s literary history.

Gakwandi first started teaching at the Department of Literature, Makerere University in 1971. 

He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and French from the University of East Africa in 1968, a Diploma in Diplomacy from the Carnegie Institute of Diplomacy in 1969, a Masters in Letters in English Literature from Edinburgh University in 1971 and a PhD in Literature from Makerere University in 1986. 

He has taught at the University of Nairobi, Makerere University, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria, and Connecticut College, U.S.A.

Bukenya was trained at the University of Dar es Salaam, Makerere University, Kenyatta University, the University of York, the University of Madagascar, and the University of Stirling. 

He has taught at Makerere University, University of Nairobi, University of Dar es Salaam, University of Stirling, The United States International University, Daystar University College, Nairobi University, and Kenyatta University. 

He is popularly known as a ‘true’ East African scholar because all East African nations claim him as their own.