Stereotypes: What your tribe says about you

Uganda has over 50 tribes and the same number of cultures and mannerisms. Some people say one’s character is largely shaped by the tribe they belong to. You would be amazed at the stereotypes people will come up with when you mention one’s ethnicity. But is it true? Vivian Agaba and Shamim Saad explore.

Bakiga

They are tough, smart and assertive people. When you get on their nerves, you might live to regret. A Mukiga will not only tell you face to face when they are annoyed with you but they might punch you in the face as well.

For long, the myth has been that they are stout people, but lately, you are likely to find some tall slim Bakiga. Many of them are also light-skinned.

Banyankole

They are beautiful people. Their long faces are envied by many. But they can be arrogant too. They also love themselves so much. Look around you and you will probably see them in a group together.

Lugbara

Their women are very hardworking. A Lugbara woman cherishes marriage, so much that she will be faithful to even the most stupid man. So just forget about that Marriage and Divorce Bill. They will never divorce.

Bakonjo

These are said to be short people, but tough.

Baganda

Most Baganda are kindhearted and respectful people. They are hospitable and welcome everybody, including strangers. Judging from the way they greet everyone formally, Baganda can be described as loveable.

But some of them are hypocrites. They can smile when they are boiling inside and say goodbye when they mean good riddance. Physically, they are said to have big noses, but some Baganda today have small and long ones. The women are said to be so romantic.

Banyoro/ Batoro

They are soft-spoken and friendly. They have pet names like Adyeeri, Abwoli. The Batoro are particularly said to be promiscuous, owing to their belief; “Omusaija tayangwa,” literary meaning, “you cannot turn down a man’s advances.”

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Basoga

George Isabirye, a Musoga, says Basoga are seen as typical womanisers, primitive and gifted chapatti sellers. Basoga women are said to be very patient with their husbands and can tolerate any marriage, however abusive it is.

Acholi

They are very honest, open, faithful and very hardworking. But all hell will break loose if one finds her spouse cheating. Most Acholi men are said to be lazy and spend a lot of time sipping local brew.

You are likely to find a woman in Acholiland from the garden, carrying a child on her back, a basket of cassava on her head and hoe in her hand. The women are also said to be assertive.

Langis

Jackson Ociti, a Langi by tribe, says Langi men are very loyal, loving and hardworking people. There are allegations that their breakfast finds them in the bar. It is said they also beat their wives.

Karimojong

Agnes Moru, a karimojong, says people view them as the most illiterate and dirty people which is not true. Moru adds that they are hardworking people with a lot of respect for their husbands. They treasure their animals more than anything else in the world.

Bagisu

They are largely known for the imbalu (the circumcision ritual). They are rough people. You are not a man until you are circumcised. So they would force you to undergo the ritual.true

Itesot

They are romantic but ‘players.’ They do not like women who domineer them and beat them up.

Japadhola

They are reserved people but can fight at the slightest provocation. Their alluring physiques speak for them.

Experts' say on stereotyping

Joseph Musaalo, a counsellor at Uganda Christian University, says it is wrong to judge people by stereotypes, affirming that not all people in various tribes behave the same way.

“It is not right to judge people’s behaviours basing on their tribes, but their personality. Therefore, the idea of generalising is wrong,” Musaalo adds.

He says by nature, human beings are critical, always looking for negative things about an individual. They are also quick to judge an individual when he or she does wrong in society, basing on their tribes.

He says the best way to do away with stereotype is take time, study people’s cultures and why they behave the way they do.

Steven Rwangyenzi, the leader of Ndere Troupes from Ankole/Rukiiga culture concurs.

“There is no uniform behaviour of individuals, even if you are from the same family. A person’s behaviour depends on their genes but not necessarily their tribe,” Rwangyezi says.

He adds that the environment we live in also shapes our behaviour.

Peter Mayiga, the spokesperson of Buganda kingdom, says the way to deal with stereotype is to visit people from other tribes. “In this era of globalisation, tribal sentiments should be no more.”

What's you say?

Do you think tribal stereotypes are true? Feel free to use our interactive space in our comment section below, or through sundayextra@newvision.co.ug. You can also post your thoughts on Facebook/TheSundayVision