Murchison Falls National Park, located in northwestern Uganda, is not only home to wildlife but also known for its rich cultural heritage. The area around the park is mainly inhabited by three tribes, each with its own unique traditions, language, and way of life. These tribes have lived peacefully in this region for centuries and are deeply connected to the land.
One of the most dominant tribes in the region is the Alur, a Nilotic ethnic group. They live in the districts of Nebbi, Zombo, and Pakwach, all located near Murchison Falls National Park. The Alur are based in the northwest of the park and are known for their strong culture, including music, dance, and storytelling.
Their dances, Agwara and Larakaraka, are full of energy and are usually performed during ceremonies. The Alur are also farmers who grow crops and keep animals like cattle and goats. They are closely tied to the region through their respect for nature and their belief in ancestral spirits.
Another tribe in the area is the Acholi, who live in the northeastern part of the park, in the districts of Gulu, Kitgum, and Pader. The Acholi have a rich culture centered on community life and oral traditions. Their well-known traditional dances, Bwola and Otole, are performed during community gatherings.
The Acholi have a traditional leadership system led by chiefs and elders who help solve conflicts and keep order in the community. Sadly, the Acholi people suffered greatly during the time of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), led by Joseph Kony, which brought violence, death, and displacement to many families.
Another major tribe in the region is the Banyoro, a Bantu-speaking group that lives in the southern parts of the park, including Hoima, Kiryandongo, Kagadi, and Masindi districts. The Banyoro are also known as the Nyoro, and their kingdom, Bunyoro, dates back to the 13th century.
They have a unique naming tradition called Empaako, where people are given special praise names alongside their given names. The Banyoro are known for growing crops such as bananas, coffee, and cassava, and also keep cattle.
In the past, the tribes around the park depended on its natural resources for survival. They hunted, fished, and gathered herbs for medicine. But in 1952, when the area was declared a national park, they were restricted from entering or using the park’s resources.
This caused problems such as human-wildlife conflict, as some people tried to enter the park illegally for food or farming.
Today, the Uganda Wildlife Authority works closely with these communities through programs that support conservation and promote cultural tourism. Visitors can now learn about local customs, traditions, and the people who live near the park.
The tribes around Murchison Falls offer a chance to learn about Uganda’s rich cultural traditions and the deep connection between people and nature.
