Tanzanians urged to document family lineage for posterity

Dar es Salaam. In an effort to ensure the preservation of history, Tanzanians have been encouraged to document the history of their family lineages.

This initiative is aimed at preserving and transmitting wisdom and values, educating and inspiring future generations, contributing to national and regional history, and fostering continuous documentation and research.

This was emphasized by retired history professor from the University of Dar es Salaam, Prof Fredrick Kaijage, Saturday, March 22, during the launch of the book ‘Life and Times of Omwami Evarista Kashaga of Kagera Region 1902-1983’.

The book chronicles the life of Omwami Evarista Kashaga, his family, and the Abatundu clan in Bukoba Region, highlighting the importance of documenting the lives of notable figures from rural Tanzania.

Speaking at the event as a close associate of the family, Prof Kaijage underscored the significance of identity.

“Identity is crucial because one must understand their history and how they are connected to past and present generations. Doing so helps individuals understand themselves and their origins,” he said. 

He further explained that self-awareness grows with knowledge of one’s lineage, shaping a person’s behaviour and relationships within the community.

“Even your actions and interactions with others will be grounded in strong societal values because you recognize who you are,” he added.

In the book’s foreword, Prof Kaijage highlighted that within the Abatundu clan, the late Evarista Kashaga was a pillar who united family members across various parts of Kagera Region. “I urge his descendants—children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—to honour his legacy by being valuable members of society,” he said.

On the same line, Senior Lecturer Social science Kampala University, and among key contributors to the book’s research and writing, Dr Frateline Kashaga, stressed that every family lineage has a unique history that contributes to a larger cultural and national identity.

“Without documentation, valuable knowledge, traditions, and customs risk being lost,” he noted.

He further emphasized that books like ‘Life and Times of Omwami Evarista Kashaga’ serve as sources of inspiration for future generations by showcasing leadership and contributions.

“Writing family history should not mean keeping it locked away. Share it with the extended family and community, and consider creating digital archives that future generations can access,” he advised.

He added “Preserving family history is a responsibility for writers, historians, and community members alike.”

The book contains historical narratives that are not taught in schools but exist within the lived experiences of generations that form part of Tanzania’s heritage.

Comprising ten chapters and compiled over two years, the book features a collection of historical documents that Kashaga preserved. 

“Even though Omwami Evarista Kashaga was not formally educated, he understood the importance of knowledge and ensured that his descendants pursued education,” Dr Frateline Kashaga said.

“His legacy is evident in the success of his educated descendants, including myself and my siblings, who have made contributions in research and academia.”

Dr Frateline Kashaga concluded by encouraging other families to document their histories, emphasizing that such efforts are not just for the Kashaga lineage but for all families seeking to understand their origins.

“It is important that this book serves as an inspiration for other families to write their histories so that future generations can understand where they come from,” he said.

The book is expected to be available starting this Friday on social media platforms managed by the great-grandchildren of Omwami Evarista Kashaga.