WELCOME TO

NASENYI
We are the Abayudayah with heritage to the Judah Tribe of Isreal

 
 
 

Welcome to 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 where we gather regularly 
to worship, and have members inter- 
act with one another and with teach- 
ers and elders

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

                

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 for my safety. I hid in a swamp, and the body was left unburied 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.

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Contacts
    Tel: +256 701926200
    email: info@nasenyi.ug
    Location: Nasenyi, Mbale,  
              Eastern Uganda