“Collaboration with the British was mainly influenced by the prospect of political gain.” Discuss with reference to either Khama or Apolo Kagwa.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that collaboration with the British was mainly influenced by the prospect of political gain, with reference to either Khama or Apolo Kagwa. Candidates may refer to ways in which collaboration allowed African rulers to exercise sub-imperialism over rival groups. Khama was able to guarantee the ascendancy of the Bamagwato, and indeed of his family, in Bechuanaland, while Apolo Kagwa was able to preserve the dominance of the Protestant Baganda elite in colonial Uganda. Under the Uganda Act, he became prime minister and was able to use his power to marginalize traditional rivals such as the Bunyoro. Candidates may note that Khama’s decision may have been influenced by his Christianity, or his calculation that the British might prove more benevolent colonizers than the Germans or Boers. They may argue that Apolo Kagwa’s decision was influenced by the example of Kabaka Mwanga, whose earlier resistance ended in defeat and exile. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.