At Makerere University, a new language is beginning to take root. The air is no longer filled only with the familiar sounds of Luganda or English, but with the rhythmic cadences of Russian poetry. A fortnight ago, students from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), alongside civilian learners, took turns reciting the verses of Alexander Pushkin and performing traditional songs- showcasing a level of linguistic mastery that went far beyond the classroom. For those gathered at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), the event was a celebration of a growing cultural bridge. While many Ugandans prioritize international languages for the pragmatic gains of trade and diplomacy, the speakers here argued for something deeper: a connection to what they called “the language of the soul.” Major Frederick Wanambwa, the Coordinator of Training at the School of Defence Intelligence and Security, watched as 29 of his soldiers demonstrated their proficiency. To him, the mastery of Russian isn’t just a technical skill for the barracks; it is a vital necessity for the modern soldier. “For us in the student forces, foreign language competency is what drives multinational cooperation and interoperability,” Major Wanambwa explained. Representing Colonel Ezra Kukundakwe, he noted that while these soldiers are learning tools for communication, they are also inheriting a vessel of history. “Those familiar with Russian call it the language of the soul. I repeat: it is the language of the soul.” The initiative is the brainchild of the Russian-speaking Women’s Association in Uganda, known as Rosinka. Its president and coordinator, Olga Atubo, started the program after noticing a groundswell of local interest in Russian culture. What began as an informal gathering has matured into a structured academic pursuit, supported by specialists flown in from Russia and a formal Memorandum of Understanding with Makerere University. Atubo’s connection to the cause is deeply personal. Many members of her association have lived in Uganda for over two decades, raising families and woven themselves into the local fabric. “We now consider ourselves Ugandans as well,” she said, her voice reflecting a commitment to a community she has called home for nearly twenty years. Atubo noted that several association members even pursued advanced degrees specifically to qualify as better teachers for their Ugandan “brothers and sisters.” The collaboration extends into the highest levels of military and academic cooperation. Major General Sergei Marchuk, head of Russian Military Experts in Uganda, praised the students for their courage in tackling a language known for its complexity. “You were not afraid, you speak well,” he told the group, pledging continued support from the Russian Embassy and the office of the Commander of Defence Forces. The university, too, is leaning into this linguistic diversity. Dr. Eric Awich Ochen, Deputy Principal of CHUSS, highlighted that while English remains dominant, the university’s profile is elevated by its support for Russian, Chinese, French, Spanish, and Arabic.The post In Kampala, Russian words build unlikely bridges appeared first on The Observer.