Kampala, Uganda — A scholar at Makerere University in Uganda has won a prestigious award for best thesis in African studies.
In a notable academic achievement, Dr. Jacob Katumusiime, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Institute of Social Research, Makerere University, has been awarded the Rahamon Bellow Award for the best Ph.D. thesis in African studies.
The announcement was made by the Institute of African and Diaspora Studies (IADS) at the University of Lagos on November 28, 2024.
Dr. Katumusiime’s award-winning thesis, titled “Beyond Religio-Cultural Violence: A Historico-Political Recontextualization of the Movement for the Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God,” was submitted to the Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) in November 2023, from whence he was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy of Makerere University in January this year.
According to a statement from the University of Lagos, the assessors praised his extensive and meticulously researched work, commending its profound methodological approach and its contribution to modern historiography.
“This thesis stands out not only for its rigorous research but also for its innovative approach to addressing complex issues,” said Dr. Oluwafunminiyi Raheem, one of the assessors. He added, “Dr. Katumusiime’s work breathes new life into the study of religio-political movements in Africa.”
Dr. Katumusiime’s thesis provides an in-depth analysis of the activities of the Movement for the Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God (MRTCG) and the mass violence orchestrated by the religious movement. The assessors noted that his work breathes new life into the treatment of modern historiography, highlighting the significant compilation and analysis of data.
Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Katumusiime said on X, “Dear friends, by God’s Grace, we are the Winners of the 2024 Rahamon Bello Award for the Best Ph.D. Thesis in African Studies. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in this project, especially my supervisor, Prof. Mahmood Mamdani.”
His achievement has been met with a flurry of congratulatory messages from colleagues, friends, and well-wishers, reflecting widespread admiration for his accomplishments. “Congratulations, Jacob. Just keep going,” tweeted Solomon Aine. “We are so proud of you,” added Shinah Real, emphasizing the spiritual aspect of this victory.
What is the Rahmon Bellow Award?
The Rahamon Bello Award is named after Professor Rahamon Bello, a former Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos. It recognizes outstanding Ph.D. theses that address African and diaspora issues, promoting trailblazing intellectual and multidisciplinary research in African Studies.
The award includes a $1,000 prize for the winner, $300 for the first runner-up, and $200 for the second runner-up. This year, the second position was awarded to Dr. Oluwafunminiyi Wasiu Raheem from Osun State University, while the third position went to Dr. Kafayat Omowonuola Oshodi from the University of Ibadan.
The award presentation took place at the Institute of African and Diaspora Studies, J.P Clark Building, University of Lagos, on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 11 AM WAT.
Who is Dr Katumusiime?
Dr. Jacob Katumusiime is a distinguished scholar with a deep passion for African studies. His research focuses on the intersection of religion, politics, and violence in African societies.
Under the supervision of Prof. Mahmood Mamdani at Makerere Institute of Social Research, Dr. Katumusiime has produced groundbreaking work that contributes significantly to the field of African Studies. His dedication to rigorous academic research and his commitment to addressing complex socio-political issues have earned him recognition and respect within the academic community.
About the Movement for the Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God
The Movement for the Restoration of the Ten Commandments of God (MRTCG) was a religious movement founded in southwestern Uganda in 1989 by Credonia Mwerinde and Joseph Kibweteere. The group separated from the Roman Catholic Church and claimed that the Virgin Mary had appeared to them, instructing them to restore the Ten Commandments.
The movement gained notoriety in 2000 when over 1,000 members died in a tragic incident at their church in Kanungu. Initially thought to be a mass suicide, investigations later revealed it was a mass murder3. The group’s leaders had the church doors nailed shut and set it on fire, while other members were found dead in mass graves, having been poisoned or stabbed.
The MRTCG emphasized strict adherence to the Ten Commandments and believed that salvation could only be achieved rigorously by following these commandments. They also predicted the end of the world, which they believed would occur on December 31, 1999. When this prophecy did not pass, suspicion grew, and the tragic events of March 17, 2000, followed.
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