Muzungu?

Where's Waldo?

This probably should have been my first post. I've received a lot of questions regarding the title of my blog, "Muzungu!" So what the heck does Muzungu mean?

First, some quick history. According to Wikipedia, "The etymology of the word stems from a contraction of words meaning "one who moves around,"(possibly zunguka, zungusha, mzungukaji-meaning to go round and round) and was coined to describe European traders who traveled through East African countries in the 18th century. The word became synonymous with "white person" because of the traders' complexion." 

It continues, "In Uganda, and to a lesser extent in Kenya, the term "muzungu" carries a connotation of a person who is important, remarkable or to be revered. This usage may well have derived subsequently to the first uses of the word in Uganda, and stems from the fact that European (white) visitors were initially seen as making important contributions to the social and economic development of the region. The term "muzungu" is therefore sometimes used in a complimentary or praiseworthy manner for Ugandans who have achieved some degree of importance or success." 

The latter portion of the Wiki source is what I have experienced in Uganda. Muzungu, or white person, is not used as a derogatory term here. I believe that to the average Ugandan, the word symbolizes two main themes:

1) Friend 

2) Money

Friend

It's refreshing to know how much the locals revere the "Muzungu," especially Americans. The United States has provided billions and billions of dollars in a mass effort to improve the socio-economic conditions in Uganda, and Ugandan's know it. As a result of our help, Uganda has become the economic epicenter of East Africa. There is also a significant network of U.S. and European NGO's (non-profit's) operating throughout Uganda. It's impossible to ignore their influence and positive impact on the country. 

I've been told the following by a local Ugandan, but I can't claim it as fact. According to him, if a Muzungu is being harmed, Ugandan's have an obligation to protect the Muzungu. He went as far as to say that killing a Muzungu is automatically punishable by death. Can anyone back this up? I hope it's true because it sure makes me feel a lot safer! 

Money

The one negative associated with the term Muzungu is money. In my experience, most Ugandan's view white people as being rich. White is synonymous with money. As a result, it is common to be haggled  and high-balled at the markets and asked for handouts or extra support. It's especially tough when you have a very limited budget and everyone is looking to you for something. To give you a good example, when my Uganda partners and I go to the market to purchase goods for our operations, for fun we will send in a Ugandan first to get price estimates and then send me second to get the same estimates. More often then not I am offered a much higher price! 

Well, I hope you learned something new today. I will literally be called Muzungu 50 times tomorrow. 

The "Muzungu" hanging with his Uganda crew. Also giving Villanova Football some love!