The British colonial administrative structure during colonial period in uganda

The British colonial administrative structure during colonial period in uganda

The British colonial administrative structure in Uganda was a complex system that was established during the colonial period, which lasted from 1894 to 1962. The British used a system known as indirect rule, which involved governing through the existing local power structures. This system was first introduced by Lord Lugard, who was the British High Commissioner for Northern Nigeria, and it was later applied in Uganda.

The British colonial administration in Uganda was divided into several levels. At the top was the Governor, who was the representative of the British Crown. The Governor was responsible for the overall administration of the colony and was assisted by a team of British officials. These officials were responsible for various aspects of the colonial administration, including finance, law, agriculture, and education.

Below the Governor and his team of officials were the Provincial Commissioners. These were British officials who were responsible for the administration of the different provinces in Uganda. They were assisted by District Commissioners, who were responsible for the administration of the districts within the provinces.

At the local level, the British relied on the traditional rulers, known as the Kabaka in Buganda and the Omukama in Bunyoro. These rulers were given considerable autonomy in local affairs, but they were expected to implement the policies of the British colonial administration.

The British colonial administrative structure in Uganda was designed to maintain control over the colony while minimizing the need for a large British administrative staff. However, this system also had the effect of reinforcing the power of the traditional rulers and creating divisions among the different ethnic groups in Uganda.

After independence in 1962, the structure of the colonial administration was largely dismantled, but the legacy of the British colonial administration continues to influence the political and social structure of Uganda today.