The perception of music in Runyankole language by the people in Central Uganda: considering Makerere Kikoni as our area of study

Abstract

Uganda has a number of languages both indigenous and foreign that is to say Luganda, Runyankole, Rukiga, Lusoga, Itesoti, English, among other languages in which music is produced. Music in Luganda a language known for Baganda people is predominantly consumed by most of the people in Uganda. Despite the fact that music in Luganda is popular among the Ugandans, music in other languages like Runyankole is also produced in Uganda. This study was carried out to establish the perception people from Central Uganda have towards music produced in Runyankole language, with respect to the performance of music in Luganda in the different regions and music in Runyankole in Ankole where Runyankole is predominantly spoken. It was carried out in Kampala specifically Makerere kikoni. The key personalities in this study include: the producers, radio presenters, audience members, and artists of this music. The study adopted a qualitative research design. It had the following objectives: to assess the perception of music in Runyankole language by the people of central Uganda, to examine the factors that contribute to the state of popular music in Runyankole language in Central Uganda. (Makerere Kikoni), as well as to analyse the factors that can lead to the increased popularity and recognition of music in Runyankole language by the people of Central Uganda. In data collection, interviews, internet and media were used. The findings from the respondents have been presented and discussed in chapter four and five. In general terms, the study established that many of the respondents had a biased attitude and response towards the questions presented about music in Runyankole language. It is therefore recommended that music in Runyankole language is present and recognised by the people in central Uganda.