Colonial Rule; Structural and Institutional Changes in Buganda 1884-1900

This paper examines the structural and institutional changes in Buganda during colonial rule from 1884 to 1900. It highlights how precolonial governance structures, cantered on the Kabaka (King) and a hierarchical system of chiefs, were modified to accommodate colonial objectives, including resource extraction and political control. The paper also analyzes the role of Christian missionaries in reshaping cultural and educational institutions, leading to the adoption of new religious and social norms. Furthermore, it discusses the introduction of land tenure systems, such as the 1900 Buganda Agreement, which redefined land ownership patterns and catalyzed profound socio-economic shifts. The research draws on primary and secondary sources to trace the interplay between indigenous agency and colonial imposition, illustrating how Buganda’s identity and governance evolved during this pivotal period. This analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of the long-term implications of colonial rule in shaping the socio-political fabric of Buganda and its broader impact on Uganda’s historical trajectory.