Socio-Economic Impact of Migration Patterns on Indigenous Communities in Western Uganda from the 1940s to Present: A Case Study of Bakiga Settlement in the Bunyoro Sub-Region (Specifically Kibaale, Kagadi and Kakumiro)

This article examines the socio-economic impact of Bakiga migration on indigenous Banyoro communities in western Uganda from the 1940s to the present, focusing on Kibaale, Kagadi, and Kakumiro districts. Using a historical research design, the study draws on data from 300 respondents collected through key informant interviews, focus group discussions, semi-structured interviews, and documentary review. Guided by Migration Theory, Political Economy Theory, Social Change Theory, and Dependency Theory, the study investigates the drivers of migration and its long-term effects on host communities. The findings show that population pressure, land scarcity, poverty, environmental constraints, and colonial resettlement policies were the principal drivers of Bakiga migration. While migration enhanced agricultural productivity, commercialization, market expansion, and cultural interaction, it also intensified land disputes, resource competition, and concerns over political representation and cultural identity. The study concludes that Bakiga migration has significantly shaped socio-economic development in Bunyoro and recommends strengthening land governance, inclusive development, conflict resolution, and intercultural dialogue to promote sustainable coexistence.