About Nasenyi

Welcome to
 
(ברוך הבא ל)



NASENYI 

We are the Abayudayah with heritage to the Judah Tribe of Israel


 
 
 

Nasenyi Jewish Community

Nasenyi Jewish Community, founded in 1928 by Zakayo Balozi, is one of the oldest synagogues within the Abayudaya congregation in Uganda. Rooted in a deep commitment to Jewish tradition, our community has preserved its faith through generations, overcoming historical challenges while fostering spiritual and communal life.

Today, Nasenyi remains a vibrant center of Jewish learning, prayer, and cultural heritage. We invite you to explore our history, traditions, and the unique story of Judaism in Uganda.

Shalom and Welcome! 

Our Community

Our Synagogue

This is the place where we gather regularly to worship, foster interactions among members, and engage with teachers and elders to deepen our faith and community bonds. 

Our Elders

We have a rich heritage and culture passed down to us from our elders. This one survived in the Kabwangasi Jewish Community. 

Our Culture

As the Abayudayah, we have diligently observed all the Jewish practices such as Shabbat, festivals, 8th day male circumcision and more. 
About us

How we came to be

The Abayudaya congregation traces its heritage to the tribe of Judah. This community was founded by Semei Kakungulu, a British agent sent to conquer territories in Uganda. While reading the Bible, Kakungulu discovered the concept of monotheism, rejecting the Christian belief in the Trinity. As a result, he converted to Judaism.

Using his political influence, Kakungulu ordered the chiefs within and beyond his palace to undergo circumcision. In 1919, he officially established the Abayudaya congregation as a religious community. He trained chiefs to lead prayers and conduct ceremonies in their local areas. Many synagogues were built under his leadership, including Namanyonyi, Nabugoye, Namakula, Nasenyi, Kabwangasi, Putti, and Namutumba, using his personal resources.

By 1928, when Kakungulu passed away, the Abayudaya population had grown to 3,000 followers. Despite limited formal education, community members diligently observed Jewish practices such as Shabbat, Jewish festivals, male circumcision on the eighth day, and other traditions.

One day, my father, a teacher at Nasenyi synagogue, was forbidden from burying a fellow member. We were chased away, and I fled to protect myself. I hid in a swamp, leaving the body unburied and without prayers.

Elder Jacob on Idi Amin Era troubles

Questions?

Whether you’re curious about our community, difficult past, rich heritage, we’re here to answer any questions.