The Maragoli community, with roots tracing back to Saudi Arabia, has faced a long history of statelessness in Uganda. Despite their significant contributions to the Bunyoro region, they have been denied recognition as a tribe, excluded from government programmes, and have struggled to access basic rights. In 1956, the Maragoli were invited to the Bunyoro kingdom to assist with farming, with family heads granted 20 acres of land each by the king. However, they were not included in the 1995 Ugandan constitution and have since been denied registration, voting rights, and the ability to run for office. This statelessness has had far-reaching consequences. Many Maragoli have been forced to identify as neighbouring tribes to access basic services and have been excluded from government programs such as scholarships and medical care. They have also faced forceful evictions as they are unable to secure interests in land.
Despite their struggles, the Maragoli have continued to fight for their rights. During the 2024 national census, they were finally given a code for their tribe (556), a small victory in their long struggle for recognition. However, much work remains to be done. The Maragoli still struggle to access basic rights, including land ownership and education for their children. Their story is a reminder of the consequences of statelessness and the need for the government to recognise and protect their rights as citizens.
Estimated to be over 30,000, the Maragoli community is just one example of the many stateless groups around the world. Their story highlights the urgent need for governments to address the issue of statelessness and to ensure that all individuals have access to basic rights and protections.
Photo 1: Peter and Juliet from HEAPI in a meaningful engagement with some members of the Maragoli Community
Photo 2: HEAPI Staff and Maragoli Community Leaders pose for a group photo after the meeting in Karuma on June 7, 2024.
On June 7, 2024, the HEAPI team, as part of its Digital ID Project, conducted a vital community engagement session to better understand and support the struggles faced by local residents. This initiative underscores HEAPI’s commitment to leveraging legal and structural mechanisms to safeguard and enforce the rights of community members. The session provided a platform for residents to voice their concerns and experiences, highlighting the various challenges they encounter. The HEAPI team listened attentively, acknowledging the community’s struggles and gaining valuable insights into the issues at hand. This engagement is a critical step in crafting tailored solutions that address the specific needs of the community.
The discussion focused on identifying effective legal and structural strategies to ensure that the community’s rights are not only recognised but actively enforced. HEAPI’s approach involves a combination of advocacy, legal action, and community mobilisation to create sustainable impact. Moving forward, the HEAPI team plans to continue these engagements, fostering a collaborative environment where community members are active participants in shaping strategic actions that will affect their lives positively. This initiative represents a positive stride towards achieving equitable and just treatment for all, reinforcing HEAPI’s dedication to upholding human rights and promoting social justice.
Through these efforts, the HEAPI team aims to build resilient communities empowered with the knowledge and tools necessary to assert and defend their rights effectively. The commitment to ongoing dialogue and partnership with the Maragoli community will cause meaningful change and ensuring that minority rights are protected and respected.