An Encounter with Rabbi Netanel and Janice as 23 lost Jewish Families Gets a Memorial Place in Mbale
By: Chaim Kihumbah
Having spent a considerable amount of time working as a media professional in Kenya and Uganda, I have recently found that my experience with Judaism has brought a new dimension to my work. It has inspired me to embrace the Jewish path and approach my work with renewed vigor. Recently, I was fortunate enough to receive an invitation to attend a special event happening after Shabbat on a Sunday blessed with delightful weather, a pleasant outdoor temperature of around 23 oC, and clear skies. The focal point of the event was the unveiling of a memorial stone at Nabugoye, situated in the historical town of Mbale, around 225 kilometers northeast of Kampala, the capital of Uganda. This location holds a significant role in the story of the Ugandan people as the cradle of Judaism. Semei Kakungulu founded Mbale in 1902, having a significant impact on the region’s early development and contributing significantly to the expansion of the Abayudaya Jewish community. His contributions were instrumental in shaping the early development of the region and nurturing the growth of the Jewish community known as Abayudaya.
It was on the 3rd of March, and the remarkable event started inside the social hall at the Stern Synagogue, the headquarters of Abyudaya. More than 50 people from various communities and nations sat in a circle with a table in the middle, lit a memorial light under the sponsor’s direction, and observed a minute of silence. Janice stepped onto the spotlight, ready to recount her experiences of living in Uganda during the 1960s. In addition to the story telling and candle lighting, Rabbi Netanel also shared a brief dvar Torah. The ceremony then moved outside, where a memorial plaque was unveiled to pay tribute to the 23 Jewish families who lived in Kampala, the capital city. This plaque served as the final resting place for these families, whose lives intertwined with Uganda between 1949 and 1969. The plaque stands as a lasting tribute to the enduring legacy of the Kampala Jewish Community during that pivotal period. However, meeting and speaking to Janice and Rabbi Netanel for the first time was truly exciting. Janice shared personal stories of her family’s experiences in Uganda during that time, adding a deeper emotional connection to the ceremony. Rabbi Netanel’s presence and words provided a sense of continuity and remembrance for the Jewish community in Kampala.
The Legacy of the Kampala Jewish Community
During the years from 1949 to 1969, a small Jewish community consisting of 23 families and around 67 individuals settled in Kampala, Uganda. The members of this group come from different parts of the world, such as Poland, England, East India, Germany, Romania, and Italy. Included in the group were Maurice Janies, Hannah Bernstein, Morris Kirbel, Isaac Aaron, Sarah Dokelman, Judah Solomon, and Fretz Metzler. They later passed away in Uganda and were buried in a Jewish cemetery next to the Christian cemetery in Kampala. When Janice, along with her parents Masur and Lily Helmut, arrived in Uganda in 1949, becoming part of the Kampala Jewish community, they actively contributed to its vibrancy and cohesion. One notable contribution was hosting Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur celebrations in their family home, which served as a gathering place for the entire community to observe these important festivals together.
Fast forward to 2005, and Janice Masur, now an adult, embarked on a journey to commemorate the legacy of the Kampala Jewish community. She started writing a book that would chronicle their rich history and profound experiences as a result of her discoveries and her desire to preserve their memory. Through her research, she discovered compelling narratives of strength, unity, and vibrant traditions, which deeply moved her and motivated her to revisit Uganda. Her aim was to pay tribute to the enduring heritage of the 23 families who once called Kampala their home.
Janice remains connected with several individuals who were once part of the Kampala Jewish community, despite their scattered locations. Janice keeps in touch with Hazel in South Africa, Daniel in Thailand, Rosanna, who might be in Durban, and Alexander, whose current location could be in Mozambique. A deep connection is formed through their experiences in Uganda, creating a lasting bond that defies the constraints of time and distance. The memories of their vibrant community in Kampala are kept alive through this special connection. They still recall the various challenges the Kampala Jewish Community faced during its existence. These included the absence of Kosher meat, a lack of a resident Rabbi, and the reliance on Nairobi for any Jewish religious supplies or surprises. Despite these challenges, the community persevered, finding ways to maintain their religious and cultural traditions in a foreign land.
Before midday, the colorful occasion ended, presided over by Rabbi Gashom Sizomu, the spiritual leader of the Abayudaya at Nabugoye Abayudaya Congregation, and attended by Rabbi Netanel Kaszovitz from Nairobi. I had the opportunity to engage in conversation with Janice and her daughter Liora, delving into various topics of shared interest. Among the intriguing revelations was the existence of an inner circle within the Kampala Jewish community that fostered interactions with the Abayudaya. Furthermore, Janice shared insights about a group that predates the 1949 community, notably two gentlemen who engaged with Semei Kakungulu around 1920–1921. Rabbi Sizomu played a crucial role in the commemoration ceremony by offering the site for the plaque’s installation. These revelations shed light on the intricate web of connections and interactions between different Jewish communities in Uganda, spanning decades and generations. The richness and complexity of Jewish history in the region are highlighted, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of these communities. With this newfound understanding, I departed from the Abayudaya Congregation Synagogue, enriched by the stories and experiences shared and with a deeper appreciation for the mosaic of Jewish life in Uganda.
The Controversy Surrounding African Jewish Recognition in Israel
Rabbi Netanel Kaszovitz, a passionate spiritual leader of Kenya’s Jewish community, offers deep insights into the rich tapestry of African Judaism. Rabbi Kaszovitz, along with his family, traveled to Africa to serve and connect with Jewish communities across the continent. Originally from Israel, they embarked on this journey with a strong sense of purpose and a deep desire to make a meaningful impact. Rabbi Kaszovitz has had the opportunity to connect with a diverse range of African Jewish communities, including the Abayudaya in Uganda, the Arusha community in Tanzania, and the Kenyan community. These communities have rich histories and cultural traditions that make them truly unique.
African Judaism is incredibly diverse, reflecting the rich tapestry of the continent. It includes both well-established communities and those that are just beginning to emerge. The Lemba tribe in Zimbabwe asserts a lineage dating back over 2,000 years, with one of its clans having a significant genetic marking, similar to the Israeli Kohanim. They claim to be descended from one of the lost tribes of Israel. Ethiopian Jews, known as Beta Israel, have a rich history that can be traced back to biblical times. They proudly claim their ancestry from the tribe of Dan and have a strong connection to the Solomonic lineage through Menelik I. The Igbo community in Nigeria has a strong historical lineage that can be traced back to the tribe of Gad through Eri. Alongside these ancient communities, emerging groups like the Abayudaya in Uganda add vibrant hues to the mosaic of African Judaism.
However, beneath this colorful tapestry lies a complex narrative of recognition and acceptance. Many African Jews grapple with questions of identity and legitimacy, facing barriers to inclusion within global Jewry. Rabbi Kaszovitz emphasizes the significance of orthodox conversion as a pathway to acceptance by the state of Israel, particularly highlighting the endorsement of the South African Beit Din, recognized by the Israeli Chief Rabbinate. Understanding African Judaism involves letting go of preconceived ideas and embracing the diverse nature of the continent. Rabbi Kaszovitz promotes the importance of connecting with African Jewish communities to cultivate a sense of unity and empathy among the worldwide Jewish diaspora. In closing, Netanel’s insights provide a captivating account of the strength and unwavering spirit found within African Judaism. Through promoting open communication and embracing the richness of cultural diversity, we can strive for a more inclusive and united Jewish community. His recognition of Rabbi Rizkin’s conversions in Uganda and Kenya highlights the continuous endeavors to enhance and authenticate African Jewish identities.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas
Though standing over 5’5″, Rabbi Netanel Kaszovitz possessed a slight build, yet his presence radiated a sense of athleticism and alertness. Suspended from his neck, a tag with the bilingual inscription “Bring them home” spoke to the deep-rooted focus of reuniting scattered Jews, including those still held captive in Gaza after October 7th, 2023. My curiosity extended to contemporary perspectives, particularly within the geopolitical arena. The ongoing war in Gaza loomed large, and I was eager to glean insights from Rabbi Kaszovitz’s unique vantage point.
On October 7th, he reached out to the commanding officer of his unit. He shared how Israel had lobbied for Gaza to receive funding to rebuild its tourism infrastructure, only to witness Hamas divert resources to construct tunnels capable of accommodating the entire New York subway system. He expressed dismay at Hamas’s conduct during the war, noting that the elected government had prevented citizens from seeking refuge in these tunnels, leaving them vulnerable. During the conflict, Hamas militants infiltrated Israel, indiscriminately targeting and killing civilians of all faiths, including Jewish, Christian, and Muslim individuals. Their atrocities included mutilating women’s bodies and capturing infants, with one baby about to celebrate its first birthday in captivity.
Rabbi Kaszovitz expressed hope that the ongoing conflict would be the final one of its kind. He strongly emphasized Israel’s dedication to preventing harm to civilians, asserting, “We have never intentionally targeted civilians, not even once, never!” Although recognizing some flaws, he emphasized the clear ideological contrasts among the parties involved. The question he posed was thought-provoking, urging us to reflect on our reactions if our loved ones were taken captive and subjected to torment. This challenged the idea of comparing the two opposing parties.
As the sun set on the commemoration ceremony and my interviews with Rabbi Kaszovitz, the unveiling of the memorial plaque marked not just the remembrance of a bygone era but also the celebration of resilience, unity, and cultural diversity within the African Jewish community. Across the span of our journey, from the humble beginnings of the Kampala Jewish community to the insights shared by Rabbi Netanel, one theme remained constant: the enduring spirit of African Judaism. By delving into the experiences of Janice Masur, Rabbi Kaszovitz, and the Kampala Jewish community, we are able to grasp the profound impact of memory and the significance of safeguarding the heritage left behind by those who came before us. These individuals’ stories highlight the strength of marginalized communities and the importance of recognizing their valuable contributions to our collective past.
In addition, Rabbi Netanel emphasized the intricate nature of African Judaism, which encompasses a diverse range of traditions, identities, and challenges. The close connections between various Jewish communities in Africa highlight the importance of fostering mutual understanding and solidarity among the global Jewish diaspora. As we contemplate our journey, it is important to not only recall the past but also anticipate the future. Embracing diversity, fostering connections, and striving for inclusivity are essential goals for the African Jewish community and beyond. Through fostering open conversations, facilitating the sharing of diverse cultures, and championing fairness, we have the potential to create a global community that is more welcoming and unified. In the words of Rabbi Netanel Kaszovitz, “By fostering dialogue and embracing cultural diversity, we can work towards a more inclusive and unified Jewish community.” Let us heed this call to action and continue to explore, learn, and grow together.
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