A grounded theory study of beliefs underlying use of ancestral spirits for healing among Baganda traditional spiritual healers in Central Uganda

Abstract

The increasing global sensitivity to spirituality in medicine and sociology has elevated the relevance of beliefs in ancestral spirits as an integral element in Africa’s multi-ethnic society and biocultural diversity for health management. However, ancestral spirituality in healthcare in the local context, remains sparse and elusive since most literature relates spirituality with religion and religious practices. The study sought to explore the beliefs in ancestral spirits utilized for health management among practicing Baganda traditional spiritual healers (Balubaale). Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured in-depth interviews and partial integration observation methods from twelve (10M, 2F) purposively selected and recruited Balubaale from Central Uganda between 15^th July 2019 and 29^th April 2020, and we prospectively interacted with them for 24 months. Transcribed data was coded and thematically analyzed using ATLAS ti. 22 computer software based on grounded theory approach. Data revealed themes related to beliefs in spiritual powers of categories of ancestral spirits, sacred places, living plants and animals, non-living things such as fire, water, the Sun, and non-materials such as symbols and colors. Spiritual powers can be potentiated through rituals, sacrifice and communal activities all of which are utilized during health managements. In conclusion, Balubaale believe that illness and health management are influenced by ancestral spirits and spiritual powers contained in nature and creation therein. We recommend more exploratory studies among spiritualists of other tribes to contrast the findings.