Effects of colonial rule in Uganda

Economic
Few farmers were encouraged to grow cash crops such as coffee and cotton.
 
New farming methods and crops with higher yields were introduced.
 
The crops helped to improve on the income of the natives.
 
The introduction of new taxes led to displacement of some families.
 
Those who could not afford to pay taxes were taken to provide free labour.
 
Introduction of new goods from Europe such as clothes among others.
 
These helped people to improve on their living standards.

 

Social effects

Loss of African culture. The colonialists discouraged some of the cultural practices. This weakened societal values and morals.
 
Conflicts caused by ethnic misunderstandings between different communities were stopped and replaced by the rule of law.
 
Social services were put in place for example hospitals and schools which improved on the life and health of the people. Introduction of formal education which was promoted by the missionaries.
 
People learnt how to read and write. Christianity was spread in may parts of the country. Many people were converted and baptised.

 

Political effects.

Colonial rule made traditional leaders lose their power. Many chiefs after opposing British rule were exiled. For example, Omukama Kabalega and Kabaka Mwanga.

New systems of governance were introduced. The rule of law and democracy were promoted.

New laws were introduced that protected the rights of citizens unlike the chiefs and Kings who used to mistreat their own people.

There were several rebellions in Uganda that arose due to British rule. These were staged to resist British rule in different parts of the country. For example Mwanga resistance in Uganda led by Kabaka Mwanga, Lamogi rebellion in Acholi led by chief Awich and Kabalega resistance in Bunyoro.