In Buganda, clans are a cornerstone of society, representing groups of people who trace their lineage to a common ancestor. The clan system is central to Ganda customs, with lineage passed down through generations. It forms the most important unit in Buganda’s cultural structure.

Originally, there were five indigenous clans, collectively known as Banansangwa, meaning "the indigenous clans." These are: Ffumbe, Lugave, Ngeye, Njaza, and Nnyonyi.

Over time, the clans expanded to 52 by 1966, reflecting the growth and evolution of Buganda's society.

A clan in Buganda functions as a large extended family, where members regard one another as siblings regardless of their actual blood ties. A formal introduction of a Muganda typically includes their name, the names of their father and paternal grandfather, and a description of their lineage within the clan.

Clans are hierarchically organized, with the clan leader (Ow’akasolya) at the top. Below the leader are successive subdivisions, including the ssiga, mutuba, lunyiriri, and finally, at the base, the individual family unit (Enju).

Each clan has a primary totem (Omuziro) and a secondary totem (Akabbiro). These totems serve as symbolic representations of the clan. The royal clan (Abalangira) is unique in that it does not have totems. It is important to distinguish between clans and totems: while clans represent genealogical lineage through which the Baganda trace their ancestry, totems are symbolic emblems of those clans. Although closely associated, they serve distinct purposes.

Clan affiliation influences various aspects of life, including naming traditions and dietary practices. Names are often derived from one’s clan, and it is taboo for a Muganda to consume their clan's symbolic representation—whether it is an animal, plant, fish, or fruit. This prohibition extends to both the primary and secondary totems, and members are expected to protect these totems for future generations.

The clan system also contributes to wildlife conservation. By prohibiting the consumption of certain animals and plants associated with clans, it inadvertently helps preserve biodiversity in the region.