The theme of unity in selected Ankole folksongs

Abstract

Currently, there is not enough research about how Ankole folk songs literary encourage and portray the theme of unity yet there are a lot of divisions among people who are even divided along cultural and tribal lines. This dissertation seeks to analyze the portrayal of the theme of unity through symbolism, imagery and repetition in Ankole folk songs to see how unity is encouraged among the people. I used the qualitative methods to collect data through interviews, focus groups and even through observation. I actually found out that Ankole folksongs are very rich in the portrayal of the theme of unity both figuratively in the language or word choice used in the song lyrics and also during the performance bit or aspect which shows people that there is power in working together as the saying goes ‘United we stand, divided we fall’ meaning if we work together, we can be successful. If we fight each other we will fail. Therefore, Ankole folksong should continue to be performed to pass on the information to the future generations and make the world a better place to leave in beside the literal aspects they carry.