The Bakiga, sometimes also referred to as Kiga, are an ethnic group primarily found in the city of Kabale and parts of the Rukungiri districts, including the counties of Ndorwa, Rubanda, and Rukiga in Kabale, and parts of Kinkizi and Rubando in Rukungiri. Over time, due to overpopulation, they have moved to other areas of Uganda, such as Kabarole, Rukungiri, Kasese, Hoima, Masindi, Mubende, and to the Rwampara, Ibanda, and Ruhuma counties in Mbarara, as well as to the Masaka and Rakai districts.

There are various theories about the origin of the Bakiga. One suggests they resided in Karagwe after migrating from Bunyoro during the Luo invasion and are related to the Banyambo of Tanzania. Another theory places their origins in Rwanda, where they migrated from Buganza in search of fertile land and to escape natural dangers and internal political conflicts. They migrated to Bwisa, Bugoyi, and then to Rutchru, all in the Democratic Republic of Congo, before settling in Kigezi. Given that the Bakiga speak a Bantu language, this latter theory seems closer to reality.

Their physical strength characterizes the Bakiga; they speak a Bantu language called Rukiga. In the past, they were organized into clans, with the largest clan known as Basiga. Each clan was divided into several lineages, headed by an “Omukuru w’omuryango” or lineage leader.

Marriage was a fundamental cultural institution for the Bakiga. Boys tended to marry at a later age than girls, between eighteen and twenty for boys and between fourteen and sixteen for girls. Girls from wealthier families tend to marry later. Before marriage, girls underwent a period of seclusion during which they were instructed in household tasks and well-fed.

Divorce was common among the Bakiga, often caused by sterility or poor cohabitation. Divorced individuals could remarry, but brides would receive fewer dowries on subsequent occasions. Elders played an important role in divorces, attempting to mediate and resolve conflicts to avoid divorce.

The Bakiga were mostly involved in agriculture, animal husbandry, and handicrafts as their main sources of income. They cultivated sorghum, millet, beans, peas, and other crops, and raised sheep and goats. They were also skilled in toolmaking, ceramics, basketry, and carpentry. The economy was based on bartering within the community.

The Bakiga diet was varied and included sorghum, peas, beans, pumpkins, yams, green vegetables, and meat. Malted beer called Omuramba was an integral part of social gatherings, and the Bakiga were experts in its production.

In Bakiga society, local leaders had authority over lineages and acted as justices. Some of them, the Basubi, were thought to be mystical and could control the rain. They were revered for their military prowess and oratory abilities.

In conclusion, the Bakiga are a group with a wealth of social customs and cultural traditions derived from their distinct history and way of life in Uganda.