At the premiere of the docuseries Tuko Pamoja: Ankole Segment on February 28, 2024, at the National Theatre, revellers were encouraged to focus on their interconnectedness with people across different regions rather than divisive elements.

Talking to attendees, distinguished historian and presidential adviser Odrek Rwabwogo subtly suggested that despite residing in different regions and speaking distinct languages, Ugandans share common roots. He emphasised the importance of unity for fostering peace and economic success.

"The pre-colonial history shows that kingdoms in Uganda and East Africa used to cooperate with one another for security and trade purposes. Besides the locations, even the physical features can tell how connected we are," Rwabwogo said.

He equated harbouring hatred based on tribal differences to self-hatred, emphasising the shared bloodline and historical ties between various people and kingdoms in Uganda.

Revellers pose for a photo with Dr Cindy Magara (second-left)

The docuseries segment unveils the rich history of western Uganda, portraying the collaborative efforts of various kingdoms against colonial rule. It sheds light on the significant heroes of Ankole and their contributions to regional and kingdom development. Noteworthy kingdoms featured include Ankole, Mpororo, Songora, Igara, and others.

Remarkably, the docuseries traces the roots of these kingdoms to the Mpororo state, formerly under Chezi rule, the Babiito, and then Bunyoro Kingdom.

Following King Kahaya Rutindangyezi's demise, his sons assumed governance of different states, including Nshenyi, Rujumbura, Igara, Kajara, Bwera, and Rukiga.

In the colonial era, Mpororo and neighbouring kingdoms were annexed, merging with Ankore Kingdom. This amalgamation led to the Bahororo, originating from Mpororo, being referred to as Banyankore.

Recalling historical events, former Ugandan president Milton Obote abolished kingdoms in 1967 but were later restored in 1986 by president Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Surprisingly, while other kingdoms were reinstated, Ankore Kingdom faced hurdles. The Bahororo, desiring independence from Ankore, posed a challenge, causing disagreements among Ankore chiefs and ultimately halting the kingdom's restoration.

Talking about the restoration of Ankore Kingdom, Dr. James Tumisiime, the founding Editor of New Vision and founder of Fountain Publishers, advocated for a thorough examination of history and a roundtable dialogue to assess the historical relationship.

Addressing the concerns surrounding the reconstruction of the Ankore palace, he proposed a balanced discussion on the significant sum invested, considering past atrocities and finding ways to utilise it constructively without reigniting rivalries.

"I am going to propose that we go back and look at this history carefully, and have a roundtable discussion to create a balance sheet for that historical relationship. The government has rebuilt the Ankore palace and there is already a big debate on the huge sum of money that was used. Claiming there were so many atrocities in the passed, let's get them clarified and discuss how we can utilise our mugaba palace meaningfully without reviving the rivalry," he said.

Tumusiime emphasised the importance of appointing a committee responsible for delving into the matter, seeking a constructive way forward. He urged for the preservation of historical records, drawing parallels with his endeavours in founding a publishing company and the Igongo Cultural Centre.

The event was graced by notable figures, including Prof. Suzan Kiguli, Prof. Mwambusya Ndebesa, Dr. Nicholas Tunanukye, and Jane Alowo, all affiliated with Makerere University, alongside several other distinguished attendees.

About the documentary
The Tuko Pamoja (We Are One) docuseries, produced by Magara and Nyati Motion Pictures, is scheduled for 13 cinema premieres from February to June 2024.

The series encompasses 13 segments, such as Bunyoro-Kitara, Buganda, Busoga, Tooro, Ankole, Kigezi, Breakaway Kingdoms, The Luo, The Ateker, The Peoples of Rwenzori, The Peoples of Eastern Uganda, West Nile, and Uganda: The Making of a Nation.

These segments are being screened at various film points, including Ham Cinemax and Makerere University (Food Science), among others.

The premiere of the Lango, Karamajong, and Itesot segment is slated for March 10, 2024, at The National Theatre.