There are 52 different ethnic groups in Uganda. It feels like every 100 meters people speak a different language. The area I am in is ethnically Buganda (which is Francis’ group for those who know Francis). They are the largest tribe in Uganda and if I am remembering correctly they are one of three tribes who have kings. The Buganda tribe speaks Luganda. So all the locals in the area where I am speak Luganda. My family is from Soroti and they speak Ateso. Then people at my school speak a variety of languages. Mainly Luganda but I have met people from at least 6 other ethnic groups. Lucky for me, the one language that most people around here speak is English. In rural areas I am guessing English is spoken much less. I will be staying in a rural area in less than 2 weeks, so I will find out.
Anyway I have been resisting learning a local language for a couple reasons. I feel like I should learn Ateso because that is my family language, but I literally only know one other person who speaks that language. So I am torn between that and Luganda. But I also have a feeling that if I learn a local language I will forget the Creole I know… which is minimal but still it makes me feel connected to Haiti.
Last night I had a funny discussion with my siblings about language. My brother is the world’s biggest mumbler… maybe only to be beaten by a couple of teenagers I know in Haiti. I was teasing him last night about how his lips don’t move when he speaks and it freaks me out. He then tried to explain to me how the way he speaks is actually a more advanced form of speech than most people use. He claimed people in Uganda strive to speak without moving their lips. My brother is a liar. Last week he told me I should paint myself black so the mosquitoes wont see me, but the week before he told me mosquitoes fear mzungu so I don’t need to use bugspray.
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2 comments:
1. I am glad you are not going to paint yourself black. That may not be viewed as very respectful. Your brother sounds like quite the character.
2. I am so glad you shared a typical day. I wondered what you did there. I have Bern trying to come up with a suggestion to help with the dirt in your bed. All I can cone up with, is to tell u to stop slipping & tripping!
3. I sent u a little something last week. I am praying it doesn't get lost or anything. Matt was encouraging & said he thinks it won't get there before you leave. He's so sweet!
4. Happy valentine's Day!!! I love you!
5. Write in your blog more!!! I check it almost everyday. I have it bookmarked on my iPhone. :)
love,
Michelle
xoxo
Luganda Ludanda bo Buganda,
Banana fana fo Fuganda
Me my mo Muganda!
Luganda!
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