A.E. Weatherhead facts for kids

Arthur Evelyn Weatherhead (1880-1956) was a British administrator who worked in different parts of Africa, including South Africa, Uganda, and the Seychelles. He was recognized for his work with an award called the Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG).

Who Was Arthur Weatherhead?

Arthur Evelyn Weatherhead was an important figure in the history of British administration in Africa. He was born in 1880 and passed away in 1956. His career involved helping to manage and organize areas that were under British control.

Early Days in Administration

Weatherhead started his career as a British colonial administrator. This meant he worked for the British government to help manage territories that were not part of Britain itself, but were under its rule or protection. He spent time working in South Africa, the Seychelles, and especially in Uganda.

Leading West Nile District

Weatherhead became the very first district commissioner of the West Nile District in Uganda. A district commissioner was like a local governor, responsible for managing the area and making sure British rules were followed.

In 1914, a part of the Lado Enclave (an area previously controlled by Belgium) became part of Uganda, which was then a British Protectorate. A British Protectorate meant that Britain protected and had control over the area, but it wasn't officially a colony. Weatherhead was put in charge of this "New Area."

Building Arua Town

One of Weatherhead's key tasks was to set up the administration in the new territory. He chose a place called Arua to build a main station, which later became the headquarters of the district. He even drew the first plans for Arua Town, helping to shape how it would grow.

His Nickname and Legacy

The local people in Arua gave Weatherhead a special nickname: Njerekede or Ejerikedi. This name meant he was seen as a brave and honest man whom people could trust, and who also trusted them.

Today, a street in Arua is named after him, called Weatherhead Park Lane. It starts near the golf course and goes towards the Presidential Suite in Anyafio village, reminding people of his role in the area's history.

Challenges and Administration

Weatherhead faced challenges while working to establish British rule in the West Nile District, especially with the Lugbara groups. He aimed to bring the region under British administration.

To manage the area, he followed a British policy called "indirect rule." This meant that instead of bringing in many British officials, he worked with local chiefs who had already been appointed by the Belgians. These chiefs helped him administer and control the district.

Recognition for His Service

For his dedicated service, Arthur Evelyn Weatherhead was given the award of Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG) in 1934. This award recognized his important contributions as a British administrator.