School of Liberal and Performing Arts (SLPA) Collection

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https://dissertations.mak.ac.ug/handle/20.500.12281/6952

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    The continuity and changes involved in Ajosi dance performed of the Teso people in Asuret Community, Soroti City.
    (Makerere University, 2026) Apiny, Everline.
    This study examined the continuity and change in the Ajosi dance of the Iteso people, with particular focus on the Asuret community in Soroti City, Uganda. The study aimed to explore the historical background of Ajosi dance, its social and cultural significance, the factors contributing to continuity and change, and the measures being undertaken to preserve the dance in the face of modernization and globalization. A qualitative research design was employed, using interviews, observation, and document review to collect data from cultural leaders, elders, performers, and community members. The collected data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that Ajosi dance continues to play an important role in promoting cultural identity, social cohesion, entertainment, and the transmission of indigenous knowledge and values among the Iteso people. However, the study also established that modernization, urbanization, formal education, religious influences, technological advancement, and changing lifestyles have significantly influenced the performance, costumes, instruments, and occasions on which the dance is performed. Despite these changes, community elders, cultural institutions, schools, and local leaders are actively promoting the preservation of Ajosi dance through cultural festivals, education, documentation, and intergenerational knowledge transfer. The study concludes that although Ajosi dance has undergone considerable transformation, it remains an important symbol of Iteso cultural heritage. The study recommends increased government support, integration of indigenous dances into school curricula, documentation of traditional knowledge, and strengthened community participation to ensure the sustainability and transmission of Ajosi dance to future generations.
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    The retrogression of the hymnal music culture in Ugandan traditional churches. a case study of Anglican church music in Namirembe Diocese
    (Makerere University, 2026) Wasswa, Andrew Lubega.
    This study addressed the retrogression of the hymnal music culture in Uganda's traditional churches, using Anglican church music in Namirembe Diocese as a case study. The study was conducted to examine the retrogression of hymnal music in Namirembe Diocese by tracing its historical development from its establishment and growth to its present state, while seeking to understand the major factors responsible for its decline. Particular attention was given to the changing nature of Anglican worship and the increasing adoption of a permissive Pentecostal approach, including the incorporation of Pentecostal musical practices into Anglican worship. The study further examined the position of music education within Uganda's national education system, the musical background of the clergy, changes in congregational musical participation, technological developments, socioeconomic conditions, and other factors that have influenced the transmission and preservation of hymnal music. The study employed a qualitative case study design. Data were collected through interviews, document analysis, and observation, drawing information from relevant church leaders, clergy, musicians, choristers, congregants, and other participants involved in the practice of hymnal music. The data was analysed thematically to identify recurring patterns and relationships among the factors contributing to the retrogression of hymnal music in the Diocese. The findings revealed that the retrogression of hymnal music is not attributable to a single factor but results from the interaction of several ecclesiastical, educational, social, technological, and cultural factors. The study found that the increasing adoption of a permissive Pentecostal approach has significantly influenced Anglican worship structures and musical practices, contributing to the reduced prominence of the traditional hymnal repertoire. The incorporation of praise-and-worship practices, constantly changing contemporary repertoires, spontaneous singing, amplified instrumentation, and greater emphasis on emotional and bodily expression has created a worship environment in which the systematic teaching, rehearsal, and preservation of traditional hymns receive comparatively less attention. The study also established that limited worship time, inadequate musical formation of clergy and church musicians, weaknesses in the position and support of music education within the national curriculum, socioeconomic limitations, and technological changes have further contributed to the weakening of the hymnal music tradition. The study concludes that the retrogression of hymnal music in Namirembe Diocese reflects a broader transformation in the way Anglican worship is understood, organized, taught, and musically expressed. While contemporary musical approaches have increased accessibility and participation among some congregants, their unbalanced incorporation may weaken the continuity of the Anglican hymnal heritage when systematic musical formation and deliberate preservation are neglected. The study therefore recommends strengthened musical literacy and training for clergy during seminary formation, the establishment of regular musical retreats and training programmes for church choristers, a thoughtful restructuring or consolidation of Anglican liturgical practice to respond to changing generational demands while preserving its musical heritage, and greater attention by the government and relevant educational authorities to the stability and development of music education within Uganda's education system.
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    The impact of ragga music on the politics of Kyadondo County, Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2026) Kasagga, Shafic.
    This study examines the impact of ragga music on the political landscape of Kyadondo County, Uganda, focusing on its role as a tool of mobilization, civic awareness, cultural identity, and political expression. Ragga music, popularized by artists such as Bobi Wine, has transcended entertainment to become a powerful medium of political communication. Through lyrical content, performances, and grassroots engagement, ragga music has mobilized youth participation, raised consciousness about governance and social justice, and fostered a sense of cultural pride within political discourse. However, its influence is double sided, while it has empowered marginalized communities and expanded democratic participation; it has also contributed to political polarization, oversimplification of complex issues, and provoked state repression against artists and audiences. Using case studies from the Kyadondo East by election and subsequent political developments, this research highlights ragga music as both a catalyst for political transformation and a contested space of resistance. The findings underscore the dual nature of music as a socio political force, offering insights into how it shapes political identity and participation in Uganda.
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    The perception of Bax Ragga music among the youths in Kampala : a case study of Makerere University students
    (Makerere University, 2026) Muvunyi, Umar
    This study explores the perception of Bax Ragga music among youths in Makerere University, Kampala. Through a case study approach, the research investigates the understanding, impact, and appreciation of Bax Ragga music among university students. I conducted a qualitative study with fieldwork at Makerere University, employing a range of data collection methods. These methods included interviews, observation, participant observation, sampling, documentary analysis, literature review, and attending to different informants through interviews. Furthermore, the researcher used the internet and photography to gather information about Bax Ragga and how this music is perceived by the youth at Makerere University. The research findings suggest that Bax Ragga, a once-popular music style, has faded out, with few students familiar with the genre. The study reveals that the music style is no longer commonly played by artists, and its impact on the lives of youths is minimal. This research aims to contribute to the revival of Bax Ragga music by identifying the factors contributing to its decline and proposing strategies for its resurgence. The study's findings have implications for music industry stakeholders, policymakers, and artists seeking to promote Ugandan music heritage.
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    Popular music as a catalyst for poverty alleviation in urban slum communities, case study of Kawempe slum
    (Makerere University, 2026) Matovu, Jesse Harolds
    This study explored the role of popular music in reducing poverty in urban slum communities. The study had particular focus on Kawempe Slum in Kampala, Uganda. The study aimed to examine how popular music contributes to poverty alleviation, the nature of songs that contribute to the agenda of poverty alleviation as well as the social impact of popular music in the community of Kawempe. The study used a qualitative research approach. Data was collected through interviews, discussions, and observations involving musicians, music producers, community leaders and residents of Kawempe. The Social Capital Theory guided the study because it explains how relationships, networks and community support can help people access opportunities and improve their livelihoods. The findings revealed that popular music has created various economic opportunities for many residents, especially the youth. Through singing, songwriting, music production, event organization, dancing, and other music-related activities and many individuals are able to earn income and support themselves and their families. The study also found that popular music helps young people develop important skills such as creativity, communication, teamwork and entrepreneurship. Music also brings people together, creates social connections, and helps community members share information and opportunities that can improve their living conditions. The research further showed that popular music plays an important role in community development by raising awareness about social issues such as unemployment, poverty and crime. Through music, artists are able to educate, inspire, and influence positive change within their communities. However, the study also identified several challenges facing musicians in Kawempe, including limited financial resources, lack of proper equipment and infrastructure, inadequate government support, piracy and negative attitudes towards music as a career. The study concludes that popular music has significant potential to contribute to poverty alleviation in urban slum communities. When properly supported, it can create employment opportunities, generate income, strengthen social relationships and improve the well-being of community members. The study recommends greater recognition of music as a legitimate economic activity, increased investment in music education and training, stronger protection of artists' rights and collaboration among government agencies, educational institutions, nongovernment organizations, community leaders, and artists. Such efforts would help maximize the contribution of popular music to poverty reduction and sustainable community development in Kawempe and other similar urban communities.