conversations

muzungu

As we drive through the villages, often kids will not ask for your name, rather they will call you Muzungu and on a few occasions mumerica. Muzungu is not a derogatory term, rather it is often used in two ways to refer to: (1) A non-black person, especially of European/white race whose nationality and ethnicity is unknown. It is like calling David Ssebulime African and not Ugandan or American (2) anyone who has money. I do not know the etymology of Muzungu, but I have seen this term evolve through the years that it no longer only refers to white person but rather someone who has money. This image of correlating money with the Western society is partly because these are the images promoted in Hollywood movies, the media, multinational corporations, and also by individual international travelers. In Uganda anyone, whether black, white, or any other race, can be called a Muzungu as a sign of endearment. For example, a group of friends or a family may be out at a restaurant for a meal, when they are ready to pay their bill their waiter might ask, “Who is the Muzungu of the day?” All those at the table will know that the question means, “Who is paying the bill?” Hence, this term though often used to refer to non-black persons, also means anyone with money. The equivalence of this for a black person is “Muddugavu”.

conversations

The majority of Ugandans love to chat and are not shy about sharing their stories with strangers or new acquaintances. The cultural difference is they may ask questions that are considered off-limits, or personal, in the West, and likewise, we also have conversation topics in the West that Ugandans consider non-public conversations. For example, I have observed in my public and private ministerial work that in America, individuals are much more open about sexual abuse and marital struggles etc., and not as open about monetary or financial struggles etc. On the other hand, just about every Ugandan I know will easily and openly tell you that they do not have money, and very few Ugandan’s will tell you about marital struggles or an incident of sexual abuse. This is a cross-cultural observation I have made. In rural Uganda people might ask whether you have children, are married etc. Having children and being married is common for most people in the villages. However, in the city more people delay getting married and having children. The majority of questions that are an insult in the American context, may be a way for people to start a conversation with you in Uganda.

hospitality & talking about yourself and family

You will have many one on one conversations with the people in the community. Remember, Ugandans are warm, hospitable, curious, and chatty. Once you are among them you will be treated like you are family. People will treat you as though you are their long-lost sister or brother who has just returned home and is being celebrated. Therefore, plan to build relationships and to make friends. One helpful thing to have is a photo album. We encourage you having a little album of your family or at least a few photos of your favorite activities. During the week, we will visit what we call ‘host families’ among whom will be some of your sponsored children. Have an album with you to show the people your life and stories. If you have dogs, cats, or any other pets etc., please bring pictures with you. Now, when showing pictures, remember that what you show will tell more about you. I discourage people from showing pictures of flashy items such as cars, boats, lavish settings, or anything that says money. Rather, show everyday things such as, where you work, your kids or friends, a day at the park, your grandparents, cousins, your church community, American landmarks, your beach vacation, or playing an instrument.

greetings and civilities

Most Christians and non-Christians will greet you with saying “Praise God.” You should also greet back with “Praise God” or “Amen” and then say “how are you?” The Luganda greeting goes like this: Mukama Yebazibwe and your answer is Amina or Amen.