Empaako tradition of the Batooro, Banyoro, Batuku,… (Uganda)
Nomination: Urgent Safeguarding List 2013
EN: The mythical rock of Empaako. According to the folktales, the 12 names (Empaako) were discovered by the first people on earth written on a rock.
EN: The 12 honour names (Empaako) of the Batooro, Banyoro, Banyabindi, Batagwenda and Batuku of Western Uganda.
EN: The 12 honour names (Empaako) and the area where the tradition is practiced, marked on the map of Uganda.
EN: The 44 clans of the Bantu Speaking Communities of Western Uganda which transmit Empaako practice.
EN: Mr. Christopher Kalya, head of the Basonde Clan presiding over the Empaako naming ceremony at his home in Kyarusozi village, Kyenjojo District.
EN: People partaking Empaako naming meal in Kyarusozi village, Kyenjojo District in 2012.
EN: People offering gifts as capital to secure the future livelihood of a baby during Empaako naming ceremony.
EN: People planting a banana during Empaako naming ceremony in Kyarusozi, Kyenjojo District. This symbolises common obligation to guarantee subsistence and food security in the community.
EN: People planting a cycamore tree during Empaako naming ceremony in Kyarusozi, Kyenjojo District. This signifies perpetuity and abundant life of the clan brought out in the functions and characteristic of the cycamore tree and a rich natural environment.
EN: Linus Bakuraira receiving blessings by sitting on the lap of the head of Bazira clan during Empaako naming ceremony in Ntengo, Kyenjojo District.
