Nebbi: A research team led by Gulu University’s lecturer, Dr. Agatha Alidri, has launched a policy brief documenting the history of the Ndrukpa people, an ethnic minority group based in Zombo District and Eastern DR Congo.
The policy brief, launched on January 17, 2025, at the Zombo District headquarters, delves into the rich history of the Ndrukpa community, the challenges they have faced over time, and provides recommendations to the government on how to create a more inclusive society for them.
The research highlights that the Ndrukpa were the first ethnic group to settle in the West Nile region, followed by the Kebu and Moru-Madi (Lugbara) between 1000 and 1500 AD, while the Alur, a larger ethnic group, arrived later, around 1600 AD.
Despite their deep-rooted history in the region, the Ndrukpa people remain one of Uganda’s smallest ethnic communities, with approximately 20,000 people living in Uganda, mainly near the Lendu Forest in Zombo District. A larger population of between 750,000 and 1 million Ndrukpa people reside in DR Congo, all speaking the unique “Ndrulo” language.
Dr. Alidri emphasized the importance of documenting the Ndrukpa history for future generations, stating, “Without their history, the history of Uganda will be incomplete.” She also noted that much of their history has been passed down orally and risks being lost when elders pass away. “We need to continue documenting this history because our memories die with our elders,” she said.
The policy brief sheds light on the long-standing neglect and social exclusion the Ndrukpa people have faced, from pre-colonial times to the present day. Dr. Alidri praised the Ugandan government for revitalizing cultural institutions and called on leaders to ensure the Ndrukpa receive their rightful privileges.
Ndrukpa King, His Highness Rapia Jimmy Agenunga Njuni III, applauded his people for supporting the research, stressing the importance of preserving their cultural heritage. “As we reflect on this research, let’s recognize the importance of preserving our cultural heritage and promoting our language,” the King said.
The Ndrukpa people hold a unique spiritual status among the West Nile ethnic communities, regarded as having extraordinary abilities to relate to nature and its forces.
The Prime Minister of Ndrukpa Kingdom, Pascal Lodza Kpagboma, commended the researchers for unveiling the rich, untold history of the Ndrukpa Kingdom.
Leaders from neighboring kingdoms also responded positively to the research. Alur Kingdom Prime Opar Lawrence Angala, represented by Production Minister John Pascal Wapokra, discussed the long-standing peaceful coexistence with other ethnic groups, citing intermarriages and shared language as evidence of unity. “Through this research, we will forget past divisions and unite as one people,” he said.
Alexis Okecha, the Prime Minister of Kebu Rigangi Kingdom, encouraged other minority groups to continue pushing for the preservation of their histories and cultures. He stated, “Let’s push harder and pray for our leaders.”
The Prime Minister of the Lugbara Kingdom, Kari Ismael Tuku, called for further research and the establishment of stronger platforms for cultural institutions, highlighting that marginalization remains a challenge in the region.
The research also identified significant educational challenges faced by the Ndrukpa people, including a lack of primary and secondary schools, which has led to a low education level in the community.
Social worker Topista Acamfua highlighted the political, economic, and social challenges facing the Ndrukpa, calling for affirmative action to support this marginalized group.
Gloria Oroma, an aspirant for the Zombo Woman MP seat, praised the unity displayed by cultural institutions in the region, hoping the research will be a catalyst for further collaboration.
Other leaders, such as Kakura Emmy Kizito, Executive Director of Life Concern, and Zombo District LCV chairperson James Oruna Oyullu, stressed the need for continued efforts to address the social and economic challenges faced by the Ndrukpa people.
Grace Atim, Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Zombo, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Ndrukpa people and fostering unity among ethnic minorities in the region. Former state minister and senior presidential advisor Grace Freedom Kwiocwiny echoed the need for strategies to avoid further marginalization and sectarianism.
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