Gashumba not interested in Rwandan ID but wants to be recognized as one

Kampala, Uganda: Controversial political and social analyst Frank Gashumba has publicly stated that although he does not desire a Rwandan national identity card, he wishes to be identified and accepted as a person of Rwandan heritage.

Speaking during a recent public appearance, Gashumba emphasized that his roots trace back to Rwanda, but that he, like his parents and grandparents, was born and raised in Uganda. His family migrated from Rwanda in 1922, and ever since, he said, they have considered their Rwandan heritage as ethnic, not national.

“I have never dreamt of having a Rwandan ID. I love Rwanda, but I’m not one of them. I’m a Ugandan 100%. My grandparents migrated from Rwanda in 1922. My father was born in Uganda, my mum was born in Uganda, and I was raised in Uganda,” Gashumba stated.

He expressed frustration over the discrimination he says people of Rwandan descent face in Uganda, especially when they acknowledge their heritage.

“When someone says they have Rwandan blood in them, they immediately start being picked on and told they don’t have rights in Uganda,” Gashumba lamented.

In an effort to challenge ethnic stigma and promote a sense of belonging, Gashumba revealed that he had once attempted to create a new tribe called “Abavandimwe”, aimed at formally recognising Ugandans of Rwandan origin. Despite efforts to gain official acknowledgment, the idea has not materialized.

Still, Gashumba insists that his advocacy continues—focused on ensuring the rights and identity of Rwandan-origin Ugandans are respected. “I will continue to speak for the rights of Rwandese in Uganda. We belong here,” he said defiantly.

The socialitie’s remarks have stirred fresh debate on ethnicity, citizenship, and identity in Uganda, especially amid ongoing discussions about nationalism and the rights of minority communities.