Ekizino

Ekizino, also knowns Kizino, is a traditional social dance originating from the Bakiga people in Kigezi region of southwestern Uganda.[1][2][3][4] It is derived from the hilly terrains of the region, where farmers engage in vigorous jumping to warm up and stretch their muscles after a hard day's work.[5][6] Ekizino traditional dance is practiced using a lot of energy.[7]

## History

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The dance has historical roots and is deeply connected to Bakiga culture. It is performed on various occasions. It is considered a royal dance among the Bakiga people of Kigezi now Kabale, Kanungu, Kisoro, and Rukungiri Districts.[8][9]

## Performance

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Ekizino involves both male and female participants donned in customary Bakiga clothing. This dance features vigorous movements, such as leaping and stomping, which symbolize the arduous labor of the Bakiga people in agricultural settings. [2][10] It is generally exhibited during festive occasions, such as weddings and harvest celebrations, as well as various other social gatherings. [2][11]

## Cultural significance

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Ekizino holds great cultural significance within the Bakiga community, serving as a powerful representation of hard-working nature. It also serves as a means to transmit culture to future generations.[2]

## References

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1. ^ "Traditional Dances of Uganda - Popular Dances". Guide to Uganda. 2017-08-26. Retrieved 2024-01-08.
2. ^ a b c d "Uganda Traditional Dances: An Integral Part of Uganda's culture". www.ugandaimmigration.org. Retrieved 2024-01-08.
3. ^ "Traditional Dance of the Uganda people - text in English". www.face-music.ch. Retrieved 2024-01-08.
4. ^ "Namulindwa and her troupe dance all the way to the bank". Monitor. 2022-06-04. Retrieved 2024-01-08.
5. ^ "Gayaza High makes fresh statement in performing arts". New Vision. Retrieved 2024-01-08.
6. ^ "Finding unity in music and dance". Monitor. 2021-01-09. Retrieved 2024-01-08.
7. ^ Ltd, Deks Safaris & Tours (2023-03-17). "Bakiga or Kiga Culture and People". Deks Tours. Retrieved 2025-02-24.
8. ^ Love, Justine (2020-06-18). "Of Bakiga Cultural Dance – 'Ekizino'". Gamba with J. Retrieved 2024-01-08.
9. ^ Kamoga, Jonathan (2018-01-30). "How about a cultural dance treat?". The Observer - Uganda. Retrieved 2024-01-08.
10. ^ "Why I don't like ballet dance teaching in Ugandan schools". Monitor. 2023-01-03. Retrieved 2024-01-08.
11. ^ "Fusing latino with local dance". The East African. 2020-07-06. Retrieved 2024-01-08.

## Further reading

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* Ekizino women's dance song of Ankole
* Performing Arts and Gender in Postcolonial Western Uganda
* Umoja sets the bar for performance high