NAIROBI • MOMBASA • MOGADISHU • KINSHASA • DAR ES SAL AAM • KILIMANJARO • BUJUMBURA ZANZIBAR • JUBA • JOBURG • DUBAI • MUMBAI • LAGOS • ABUJA • HARARE • LUSAKA • LONDONAPRIL -JUNE 2026ATO GIRMA WAKEThe Crane Gets New WingsBOVINE ROYALTYUganda's Ankole Lomghorns28 12
ContentsAPRIL - JUNE 2026REGULARS6286 N G ' A A L I 8 APRIL - JUNE 202698 12 CEO’S NOTE 16 TECH SAVVY 18 BUSINESS & FINANCE 22 HEALTH 36 ON THE MOVE 62 WORLD STUNNERS 68 HERITAGE 70 CUISINE 72 ROOM WITH A VIEW 78 ART 80 CONSERVATION 84 PEOPLE 86 FASHION 92 HOMES 94 BEAUTY 96 SAFARI PACKING LIST 97 TRAVEL TIPS 98 TRENDS 100 INFLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT 101 BOOKSHELF 102 NG’AALI KIDS 106 UGANDA PASSPORT RANKING 2026
ON THE COVER:Bovine Royalty (Pg 28)3256NAIROBI • MOMBASA • MOGADISHU • KINSHASA • DAR ES SAL AAM • KILIMANJARO • BUJUMBURA ZANZIBAR • JUBA • JOBURG • DUBAI • MUMBAI • LAGOS • ABUJA • HARARE • LUSAKA • LONDONAPRIL -JUNE 2026ATO GIRMA WAKEThe Crane Gets New WingsBOVINE ROYALTYUganda's Ankole Lomghorns28 12Ng'aali, the name of our inflight magazine, is derived from the local Luganda name of the Crested Crane, which is the national bird of the African nation of Uganda. It appears on the flag and Coat of Arms and can be found near the country’s many lakes and rivers. Crested Cranes stand over 3 feet tall, with a wingspan of up to 6.5 feet. They live up to 22 years, but hatch in 30 days and reach maturity in 3 years. These majestic birds practise monogamy - they remain with the same breeding partner for life. Literature has it that if one is widowed, they stay single until they die. They are omnivores, so like humans, they eat both meat and plants.DESTINATIONSGUIDES AND TIPS 28 UGANDA 42 MOMBASA 43 LAGOS 50 LONDON 54 DUBAI 56 INDIA 58 ABUJA 59 LUSAKA 60 ZANZIBAR 99 TRAVEL HEALTH AND WEATHER CALENDAR 108 TRAVEL GUIDE 109 DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS 110 DIRECTORY 119 SALES & TICKETING OFFICES 120 ROUTES 60 N G ' A A L I 10 APRIL - JUNE 2026
KALUNGI KABUYEKabuye is an award winning writer and photographer, and has been a journalist for more than 20 years. He has been editor of several magazines and newspapers in Uganda. SOLOMON OLENYOleny is a creative, self driven professional travel journalist. He has worked with CNN to profile tourism in Uganda, and is a recipient of nine Tourism Excellence Awards since the start of his journalism career in 2008. MARK EVELEIGHEveleigh, a frequent visitor to Uganda, has contributed 750+ full-length features to 100+ international publications, including BBC Wildlife, BBC Earth, Geographical, National Geographic Traveller and The Independent.MARK NAMANYAThis acclaimed sports journalist has won multiple awards in his field. A former President of Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA), Namanya's command of the sports language is unrivalled.PUBLISHER Dora BarungiDESIGNGraphics Designer Esther NabaasaUGANDA AIRLINESCORPORATE AFFAIRS HEAD:Shakila R. LamarPUBLISHED BY:The views expressed in Ng'aaliare not necessarily those of the editor, staff or publisher.Ng'aali is the registered trademark name of the Uganda Airlines inflight magazine.CONTACT USwww.ngaaliinflightmag.comTel: +256 782 555 213AddressAcacia Mall, 4th floorSOPHIE REDISCHRedisch is a wave maker, negotiator, mum/dad, wanderer, writer, dreamer, and storyteller. She sings and dances, searching for the world's curious corners and exploring World Heritage.HASSAN SSENTONGOSsentongo is a writer and editor. He lives in Kampala, and currently serves as Creative Director at Satisfashion UG, an online platform that celebrates fashion. He is passionate about fashion and food.ADELE CUTLERAdele is passionate about wildlife and conservation and has worked promoting African tourism destinations to the world for 8 years. She believes that through the growth of tourism, everyone can benefit. Her favourite place is Uganda and she has a love for primates.EDITORIALWritersAdele Cutler, Kenneth Muhangi, Mark Eveleigh, Kalungi Kabuye, Mark Namanya, Hassan Ssentongo, Iman Karungi, Sophie Redisch, Erioth Nagadya, Pamela NyamatoPHOTOGRAPHYPeter HogelADVERTISING AND SALESSales & Marketing ManagerDoreen KabatesiBusiness ExecutivesPeter Kusiima, Lawrence Muhwezi, Mugisa Asiimwe, Bashir Kiyingi, Danny Muhwezi Brand ManagerHassan SsentongoBrand OfficerNathan NamanyaKENNETH MUHANGIMuhangi is a Lecturer of IP and ICT Law, Partner at KTA Advocates, award-winning author and trainer in IP and ICT. He also advises the Ministry of ICT on innovation and ICT policy development, and is a consultant with the World Bank.Contributorswww.ngaaliinflightmag.com 11
CEO’s NoteDear valued passengers, partners, and friends of Uganda Airlines, There is something deeply moving about the Crested Crane, the bird whose name graces this very magazine and whose wings adorn the tail of every aircraft in our fleet. The Ng’aali, Uganda’s beloved national symbol, is known not for speed alone, but for the poise, purpose, and quiet resilience with which it rises. It does not flee the storms. It soars through them. As I take up the responsibility of Acting Chief Executive Officer of this airline during one of the most defining moments in its young history, I find no better spirit to guide us than that of the Crested Crane itself. I come before you with an equal measure of deep humility and resolute conviction. Honesty, I have always believed, is the first act of leadership. It is the one currency that cannot be manufactured, and it is the one thing our passengers, our staff and the travelling public deserve above all else. I have spent over six decades in African aviation, beginning as a young man at Ethiopian Airlines in 1965 and walking with the industry through every season it has known: the age of propellers and paper tickets, the jet revolution, deregulation, privatisation, the digital transformation of travel, and the shattering pause of a global pandemic. I have seen airlines that were once barely known grow to become the pride of their nations and the engines of continental economies. I was privileged to serve as CEO of Ethiopian Airlines from 2004 to 2011, and as chairman of the Ethiopian Airlines Group from 2018 to 2023; and to watch that institution cross the billion-dollar threshold in revenue, expand its wings across five continents, and embed the standards of professional discipline that continue to define it today. I later served as Chairman of RwandAir, where I saw again what is possible when clarity of purpose meets courage of leadership. I tell you this not to speak of the past, but to tell you why the future of Uganda Airlines matters so deeply to me and why I believe, with every conviction I carry, that this airline can and must succeed. Uganda Airlines was revived in 2019 with a noble purpose. It was always more than an airline. It was, and remains, a statement of national ambition: that Uganda belongs on the world’s airways, that Entebbe can be a crossroads of the continent, that Ugandan pilots, engineers, cabin crew and aviation professionals deserve a flag carrier worthy of their talent. That founding vision has not changed. What we must now change is the path we walk to achieve it. I will be candid with you: this airline has faced real difficulties. Confidence in the institution among passengers, staff and the wider public has been tested. Acknowledging this is not a counsel of despair. It is the beginning of the repair. You cannot rebuild what you refuse to examine. The reset I am leading is anchored on four foundations: Operational Integrity, Accountability, Right Leadership for the Long Term, and A Strategy Worthy of Uganda’s Potential. To our cabin crew, ground staff, pilots, engineers, and every member of the Uganda Airlines family, I see you. I understand the weight this period has placed on your shoulders. You have continued to show up, serve and represent this airline with pride, even as the storms gathered above. Your dedication is the foundation upon which everything we build will stand. I am here to serve alongside you, not above you. To our passengers, I make you this personal commitment: your journey is my responsibility. We are not yet the airline we intend to become. But every day, every flight, every interaction, is a step closer. Your patience and continued loyalty are the greatest affirmation that this airline is worth fighting for. To our partners and the aviation community across Africa and beyond, Uganda Airlines is open for business, and we are building for the long haul. The Pearl of Africa deserves a flag carrier that flies as brilliantly as it shines. I have been asked, more than once in recent weeks, why, at this stage of my life, I would take on a challenge of this nature. My answer is simple: Africa’s aviation story is still being written. I was fortunate to hold the pen during one remarkable chapter. When Uganda called, I could not in good conscience set that pen down. The Crested Crane does not stop flying because the journey has grown difficult. It adjusts its altitude, finds the current, and presses forward. That is precisely what we intend to do. On behalf of the entire Uganda Airlines team, welcome aboard. Thank you for choosing to fly with us. We are grateful for your trust, inspired by your confidence, and committed to earning both every single day. Fasten your seatbelts. We are cleared for departure. ATO GIRMA WAKEFlying Forward: A New Chapter For The Crane N G ' A A L I 12 APRIL - JUNE 2026
TORORO FACTORY : Malaba - Jinja Road, Tororo Uganda | P.O Box 74 | Tel: 0352-512500 | Email: [email protected] | Web: www.tororocement.comkampala office: KP Plaza, 6th Street, Industrial Area, Kampala Uganda | P.O Box 22753 | Tel: 0393-260 183/4 ISO 9001:2015 | ISO 14001:2015 | ISO 45001:2018 UNBS certifiedTORORO CEMENT
16 NG'AALI APRIL - JUNE 2026TECH SAVVYHuman-centric AI assistants have learned to think with us, not for us. On-device inference, privacy-preserving personalisation, and multimodal input let these agents summarise long documents, draft tailored content, and automate intricate workflows without pinging the cloud for sensitive data. The result is lighter cognitive load, faster decisions, and a calmer digital companion that respects your boundaries.Quantum-resilient cryptography is no longer a novelty but a baseline. Enterprises and consumer devices alike are adopting post-quantum standards, with hybrid schemes easing the transition. The payoff is simple: data that remains secure even as quantum threats mature, from banking apps to healthcare records.Autonomous edge AI is going mainstream in industry. Models run where the action happens; on factory floors, in transport hubs and at energy sites, delivering real-time insights with minimal latency. Expect fewer outages, smarter maintenance and safer, more efficient operations across manufacturing, logistics and utilities.Mixed-reality collaboration podsare turning distance into a non-factor. High-fidelity MR enables remote teams to co-create in shared spaces, with spatial audio and real-time on-portal annotation. It’s collaboration without the friction of travel, inviting closer alignment between design, engineering and education.Bio-inspired computer and energyefficient design are delivering power where we need it most. Neuromorphic chips and spiking networks push AI workloads toward greater efficiency, expanding what edge devices can do and how long they can run between charges. In data centres and on devices, greener, smarter compute is becoming the default.Next-gen batteries continue their quiet revolution. Solid-state chemistries and lithium-metal variants offer higher energy density, faster charging and better safety. As charging infrastructure matures, the practical upside is longerlasting devices, quicker evictions from “range anxiety,” and cleaner grid integration for renewables.Finally, sustainability is stitched into every layer of computing. From green data centres with liquid cooling to circular hardware life cycles, 2026 is inching toward a digital backbone that treats the planet like a long-term partner, not a one-off input.QUICK TIPS FOR NAVIGATING 2026 TECH• Prioritise interoperability: Favour standards and open APIs to ensure your tools play well with others. • Balance privacy and personalisation: Look for products with clear data controls and transparent policies. • Pilot before large-scale adoption: Run small projects to verify ROI and risk mitigation. • Invest in security hygiene: Quantum-safe planning is smart, but everyday security practices remain foundational. A quiet revolution is underway in 2026, reshaping how we work, create, and relate to technology. Here’s a curated look at the most exciting developments and consequential advances this year, writes Jaden Ntare. The Best New Tech of 2026
17 www.ngaaliinflightmag.com TECH SAVVY
Local Roots, Global AmbitionsFrom local to global isn’t a straight line; it’s a navigable arc. Successful local-first ventures embed themselves in their communities, then deliberately export what works. Words By Maxmillian KiyomboBuilding Durable Innovation18 NG'AALI APRIL - JUNE 2026BUSINESS & FINANCE
19 www.ngaaliinflightmag.com BUSINESS & FINANCEFrom the buzz around AI to the hyper-accelerated cadence of global markets, it’s tempting to assume that scale is the sole measure of innovation. The most enduring breakthroughs often begin not with a grand plan for the world, but with a precise, local observation; a neighbourhood problem, a city corridor or a vertical that rarely makes headlines. The future of innovation belongs to founders who think locally first, and then scale with intention. The argument is thus: leverage the intimate knowledge of a community to uncover needs others overlook. In a world saturated with data and rapid prototyping, local insight becomes a superpower. Founders who immerse themselves in a place — its people, its workflows, its constraints — discover friction we didn’t know existed and design solutions that feel inevitable the moment they arrive. Consider the daily rhythms of a city’s desks, clinics and public spaces. A healthcare startup might glimpse a bottleneck in patient handoffs because a hospital’s information systems don’t talk to one another. A logistics founder might map lastmile delays not from a spreadsheet, but from the lived experience of a neighbourhood courier. A local university lab could partner with nearby manufacturers to iterate on an affordable, scalable device before pitching it to the globe. In each case, the local lens reveals a micro-problem with macro-potential. There are three durable advantages to thinking locally first: 1. Deep Context, Rapid IterationLocal founders sit at the intersection of users and problems. They observe day-to-day pain points, consequences of policy, and cultural nuances that outsiders miss. This proximity enables rapid experimentation, honest feedback and iterative learning cycles that compress years of iteration into months. When you ship solutions grounded in local realities, you’re not just building products, you’re building systems that feel obvious in hindsight. 2. Trust That Travels Communities are built on relationships, and relationships are accelerants for adoption. Local founders earn trust through ongoing engagement with colleagues, customers and civic leaders. This trust lowers friction for pilots, co-development and regulatory navigation. It also creates a network effect: early adopters become advocates, mentors become partners, and cross-pollination across adjacent sectors becomes a natural byproduct of a thriving local ecosystem. 3. Scalable SpecificityYes, we’re talking about scale, but not in a megaphone sense. Local-first innovation creates products that are inherently adaptable to other geographies with minimal rework. By mastering a particular context, founders develop robust playbooks — patterns that translate across cities, industries, and even national borders. The trick is to design with modularity and interoperability from the outset: plug-and-play components, adaptable data schemas, and governance models that can be generalised without erasing their local roots. Successful local-first ventures form cross-disciplinary alliances with schools, hospitals, municipal agencies, and nearby enterprises. They co-create with end users, not just for them, ensuring that the solutions address real, lived needs rather than theoretical advantages. They also invest in talent locally, recruiting from community colleges, neighbourhood networks and regional accelerators, creating a sustainable pipeline of innovators who remain connected to the very problems they solve. This approach does not oppose global ambition; it reframes it. Founders who think locally aren’t small. They’re precise strategists who understand that global impact is built on a foundation of regional relevance. AI and other frontier technologies will continue to democratize access and compress timelines, but the compass that guides responsible, durable innovation remains rooted in local context. Note: The journey from local insight to global impact is a narrative worth pursuing one block, one corridor, one partnership at a time. And for those who wonder whether scale will ever truly bite, watch the local pivot, and you’ll see the global arc in motion.
www.ngaaliinflightmag.com BUSINESS TRAVELLER 21 WishingfifffflffiflffiflffiflflflffiWhen in Uganda, reach out to us for quality solutions.ffiffifl flfifffflffiflfflflffffiflffl@DigiprintSystemPlot No. 61-67, JP Plaza, Nkrumah Road,P.O. Box 28252, Kampala, Uganda.Office: +256 754 800 [email protected]
N G ' A A L I 22 APRIL - JUNE 2026HEALTHHormone shifts are a normal part of aging, but they differ by sex and aren’t one-sizefits-all. In men, the journey is usually slower, more nuanced, and quietly personal. It’s a topic that’s shifting from hush-hush conversations to everyday discussions. Let’s wander through what’s real, what’s not, and how to move through midlife with clarity and care.Think of this shift as a dimming of the spotlight rather than a sudden curtain drop. After about age 30, testosterone levels begin a gentle descent for many men. The phrase “andropause” gets tossed around, but experts often prefer to talk about a gradual decline, or late-onset hypogonadism when it becomes meaningful to a person’s daily life. The changes aren’t dramatic for everyone, and that is where the beauty of individual experience comes in: signs can be subtle, drifting in slowly rather than like a thunderclap.If you’ve started noticing shifts in energy, mood, or sleep, you’re certainly not alone. You might feel a dip in stamina that once carried you through a long week, or you could notice mood shifts, smaller slips of focus, or a slower pace to things you used to enjoy. Physically, you might see a nudge toward a little less muscle tone, a touch more belly around the middle, or bones that remind you to take bone health a little more seriously. In the realm of intimacy, a quieter libido or firmer thoughts about arousal can appear. These changes don’t chart a single path, and they don’t define a person’s worth or vitality. Testosterone trends downward with age, but the speed of that decline is personal. Lifestyle choices, like how we move, what we eat, or how we sleep, can shape the rhythm of the ride. Body composition makes a difference, as do chronic conditions or medications. And yes, genetics plays a role, too, quietly shaping the course in the background. While hormone therapy can be beneficial for some, it isn’t a universal quick fix and requires careful, individualised medical supervision. A clinician will explore your medical history and hear how symptoms have appeared in your day-to-day life. A physical exam, blood tests to measure the right forms of testosterone, and an eye toward related conditions like sleep disorders, thyroid function, mood health and metabolic health, help the full picture come into view. If levels are consistently low, a thoughtful conversation about options follows. Treatments aren’t about dramatic transformations but about thoughtful improvements, chosen with care. Testosterone replacement therapy can come in several forms e.g topical gels, injections, or patches, and can bring increased energy, improved mood, and better sexual function for some. But it isn’t suitable for everyone, and it carries considerations for heart health, sleep, fertility and prostate health. Sometimes, addressing underlying issues like sleep apnea or thyroid disorders can lift symptoms without hormone therapy. Beyond medical pathways, daily life is where many of us experience the most meaningful shifts. Mixing exercise and a diet rich in protein and nutrients, with attention to vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3s, helps the body stay resilient. Regular, restorative sleep makes a world of difference for hormones and mood. Stress management matters too, with practices like mindfulness or gentle hobbies easing the body’s stress response. If you’re wondering whether now might be the right time to talk with a professional, consider whether fatigue or mood changes are lingering, whether sexual desire or function has shifted in a meaningful way, or whether changes in muscle mass and abdominal fat are affecting your sense of self. Bringing a list of symptoms, medications and questions to a visit creates a cooperative, personalised conversation about the path forward.Aging is a human rhythm, not a problem to be solved, and midlife is a chapter of balance, learning and renewal. With warmth, awareness and thoughtful medical guidance, men navigating these hormonal changes can move through this phase with vitality, curiosity, and a renewed sense of well-being. Male MenopauseMyth Or Reality? Hormone changes related to aging in men are different from those in women, and the term \"male menopause\" (also called andropause) can be misleading. Words by Dr. Mina Ssali
23 www.ngaaliinflightmag.com HEALTH
28 NG'AALI APRIL - JUNE 2026 DESTINATION UGANDA
29 www.ngaaliinflightmag.com DESTINATION UGANDAA mong the ruminants of Western Uganda, the Ankole Longhorns are as royal as they come. Majestic and elegant with long, large-diameter horns, they have a dark brown coat, sometimes tinged with beautiful spots, and they attract attention wherever they appear. Thanks to their impressive horns (almost six times longer than European cattle breeds), they were once considered the incarnation of divine beauty, a yardstick for women and warriors. The ancestry of these regal animals can be traced back more than 6,000 years. Longhorned, humpless domestic cattle were well established in the Nile Valley by 4000 B.C. Known as the Egyptian or Hamitic Longhorn, they appear in pictographs in Egyptian pyramids. Over the next twenty centuries (2000 years), the Egyptian Longhorn migrated with its owners from the Nile to Ethiopia, and then down to the southern reaches of Africa. By 2000 B. C., humped cattle (Longhorn Zebu) from Pakistan and India reached Africa in what is now known as Ethiopia and Somalia, and were interbred with the Egyptian AnkoleLonghornsUganda's MajesticShow-Stoppers Of The Bovine WorldCattle aren’t just livestock in Africa; they’re a language, a currency, a calendar and a choir, but some breeds are rarer and more sought after than others. The Longhorn cattle of Western Uganda are the most imposing creature among domesticated animals in Africa.Words by Dora B. M.Longhorn. The mixture produced the Sanga breed which spread to Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, and other parts of Eastern Africa, becoming the base stock of many of the indigenous African breeds. Particularly remarkable are the breeds found in Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi. In Uganda, the Nkole tribe's Sanga variety is known as the Ankole Longhorn. In Rwanda and Burundi, the Tutsi tribe's Sanga variety is called the Watusi. It was formerly owned by Tutsi kings and chiefs, and was called the Inyambo. Legend also has it that Ankole Longhorns were introduced in Uganda by the Bachwezi people of the ancient Empire of Kitara, who greatly revered them and believed them to be divine. Because of their striking appearance, and the resulting ability to attract paying customers, Ankole Longhorns were imported from Africa by European zoos during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were first introduced to the US in the 1960s from a small seed stock in European zoos. Exportation of Ankole Longhorns from Africa was banned in the 1930s and today, less than 700 are registered in the U.S. Physically, Ankole Longhorns are elegant and graceful. They have a straight topline and a sloping rump, and the bulls have a neck hump. Their horns are long and symmetrical, with a base large and proportional to horn length. The size of their horns can reach more than 2.5 metres in length. In Western Uganda, Ankole Longhorns provide fresh milk but are rarely seen as a source of meat. The Bahima people divide their day into twenty periods and 19 of these have to do with their cattle related activities. To-date, Ankole Longhorns are an intimate and endearing part of the Ankole community so much that they are given names according to their skin shade. Every cow has a name and will respond to it when called. The names relate to their behaviour, character, skin pattern, size, shape of horns and their position in the herd. Traditionally, slaughtering healthy cattle was seen as a form of cannibalism. Only infertile ones and extra bulls were slaughtered for special occasions. Part of their hides were made into mats, drum coverings and clothes. The dung of cows was used to plaster huts and to create art on them. Still today, these cattle have a sacred role in the communities that depend on them. They are a maternal figure, a currency, and a gift. They strengthen social relationships, and their elegance is celebrated in poems and songs. Milking is done once or twice a day. In the evening, the herdsmen round off the cattle into kraals, where they spend the night and because the evening hour is chilly, a fire is always lit at the centre of the kraal area to keep them warm, ward off mosquitoes and other insects, and keep wild animals away. The calves are separated from the adult cows at night and put in a sheltered area as caution. If left with their ‘mothers’, they suckle the milk during the night and leave none for the milkman.
N G ' A A L I 30 APRIL - JUNE 2026 DESTINATION UGANDAThe children watch on, learning from the old, and will pass this knowledge on to the next generation. Fortune Cookies The story of cows costing a fortune is old, with the children of Israel giving us the benefit of a golden calf - which easily became a deity. In May 2021 at the National Ankole Auction in South Africa, nine Ankole Longhorns bred at President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Ntaba Nyoni farm in Mpumalanga, a mixture of bulls and cows, fetched a total of R2.7 million (UGX 690,772,200), worth a quarter of the auction's total value. Described as the “best bulls on offer”, Mufasa sold for R700,000 (UGX 179,103,000), while Sebastiaan sold for a record R300,000 (UGX 76,759,000), highlighting the bright future of the breed in South Africa and the world at large. There were also 12 Ankole embryos, direct descendants of President Museveni’s Royal Ankole herd, sold by Full Blood Genetics in collaboration with Ntaba Nyoni Estates. These embryos fetched an additional R580,000 (UGX 148,422,000) at the auction. In 2022, billionaire Patrice Motsepe paid R2.1m (about 470m UGX) for one cow, and in 2024, a pregnant female, Khethiwe, fetched R1.8m (about 403m UGX). Both animals were owned by President Ramaphosa, who was awed by these cattle when he first saw them in Uganda in 2004 while visiting President Yoweri Museveni's ranch.\"Down beneath were brilliant animals that essentially dumbfounded me. They each had long, white, wonderful horns flickering in the African sun, and I abruptly got focused and couldn't quit taking a gander at them. I was interested and in wonderment and went gaga for these animals right away,\" he writes in Cattle of the Ages: Stories and Portraits of the Ankole Cattle of Southern Africa, his photographic book about Ankole Longhorns delivered three years ago. Already a figure of wide political and business sway, Ramaphosa had revived a long family lineage of cattle farming. His Uganda visit only sharpened his entrepreneurial drive to buy 43 Ankole cattle from President Museveni for his Ntaba Nyoni and Phala Phala farms back home, where they would amplify his tourism ventures with a living, roaming centrepiece. However, transporting the animals to South Africa in 2007 was no simple feat. It read like an epic quest: embryo fertilisation under strict Uganda quarantine, a move to Kenya for a second round of checks, and a meticulous, world-class monitoring process before any shipment could occur. It was an adventure that demanded patience, precision, and a touch of daring. Today, he is the single greatest Ankole rancher in his country. And on May 4th 2021 at the National Ankole Auction in South Africa, nine Ankole Longhorns bred at President Ramaphosa’s Ntaba Nyoni farm in Mpumalanga, a mixture of bulls and cows, fetched a total of R2.7 million (UGX 690,772,200), worth a quarter of the auction's total value. Described as the “best bulls on offer”, Mufasa sold for R700,000 (UGX 179,103,000), while Sebastiaan sold for a record R300,000 (UGX 76,759,000), highlighting the bright future of the breed in South Africa and the world at large. There were also 12 Ankole embryos, direct descendants of President Museveni’s Royal Ankole herd, sold by Full Blood Genetics in collaboration with Ntaba Nyoni Estates. These embryos fetched an additional R580,000 (UGX 148,422,000) at the auction. The Significance Of Ankole Longhorns A cattle keeper's status is rated by the number and beauty of the animals they possess. Cattle function as dowry, and are used to strengthen friendship and resolve conflicts. Traditionally in Ankole, these animals were revered as an important component in family relations through the concept of empaano (a traditional, highly significant practice where cattle, especially the Ankole longhorn, are gifted to a friend, relative, or dignitary as a token of love, appreciation, or to strengthen social bonds). Through empaano, the afflicted family could bounce back by receiving back from those that they gifted cows. Cattle also play a big role during marriage ceremonies as they are used for payment of dowry. The Ankole people believe that dowry is considered enough only if the groom pays the number of animals that has been stipulated by the family of the bride. Their hides are used for making clothes, mats and bedding, their horns are used for making beads, trumpets and violins, and their urine is used for cleaning containers used for churning milk and keeping yogurt. Their tasty milk has a high fat content and the tender meat is low in cholesterol. Ghee made from milk fat is used to make a special sauce called Eshabwe, and some Bahima still make bread and gravy from cows' blood. Medicinally, a mixture of Ankole Longhorn milk and urine is used to treat stomach aches, fever and coughs. Dung is used to make casts for broken bones, to treat measles, and to stop the lactation of women who have lost a baby. The horns are used to make medicine for reducing pain and for giving enemas. Soup from boiled cow hooves is a source of calcium and can be used to reduce joint pains.
www.ngaaliinflightmag.com DESTINATION UGANDA 31 Right:President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni at Kisozi Ranch in Gomba, which birthed President Cyril Ramaphosa's prestigious Longhorns.
32 NG'AALI APRIL - JUNE 2026 DESTINATION UGANDAMorning light threads through the forest canopy in pale gold, dancing on droplets that cling like tiny prisms to spiderwebs. My heartbeat taps a drumbeat against ribs as we step onto the trail, guided by a ranger’s whispered map and the unspoken anticipation that tightens the air with electricity. We are in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in south western Uganda that offers the unparalleled experience of trekking endangered mountain gorillas, and is home to nearly half the world's population. In 2025, Bwindi was ranked the third-best adventure destination in the world and the best in Africa at the Tourise Global Tourism Awards in Saudi Arabia. It is one of Africa's oldest and most biodiverse rainforests, featuring other primates, elephants and hundreds of bird species. We move in a hush, a practiced quiet sharpened by respect. Roots coil across the path like ancient staircases, and the rain-soft earth lends a scent of damp moss and possibility. Then the forest tilts into a living heartbeat: a rustle at shoulder height, a flick of green in the undergrowth, and the world holds its breath in chorus with us. From the fern-draped gloom appears the silverback — massive, almost spectral in motion, fur catching light in a way that makes him shimmer with a wraithlike glow. Behind him, a string of juveniles tumble through the brush, their energy a bright current that crackles in the air. The silverback signs his An Experience Like No OtherWords by Knud Nielsen
IN 2025, BWINDI WAS RANKED THE THIRD-BEST ADVENTURE DESTINATION IN THE WORLD AND THE BEST IN AFRICA AT THE TOURISE GLOBAL TOURISM AWARDS IN SAUDI ARABIA. 33 www.ngaaliinflightmag.com DESTINATION UGANDAfunded a school where her daughter now reads under a tree that used to shelter cattle. A young guide, newly licensed, smiles wide as he speaks of mentoring children in neighbouring communities about conservation, the way a future can be coaxed into being with patience, pride and care. A girl from the village offers me a pressed flower and a blessing tucked into the seam of my shirt — quiet, intimate, and forever mine to carry. Bwindi’s magic isn’t only the gorillas’ near-presence but the way the day folds into a chorus of kinship: with guides who guard the forest’s secrets, with families who turn guests into neighbours, with a landscape that asks you to listen as much as look. The encounter becomes a bridge between species, worlds, the thrill of proximity, and gentleness of return. authority without a shout; leaning, listening, and choosing the tempo while the youngsters skitter closer in gleeful, reckless inches, noses twitching at every mossy log and leaf. A rush of leaves puffs as a gorilla sweeps past a tree trunk, and the world tightens into focus: the gorilla’s eyes, dark as polished coal, hold mine with a patient ferocity that feels at once ancient and intimate. He grouses softly, a low, rolling growl that seems to roll through the chest rather than the throat, a sound you feel as much as hear. The juveniles clamber across branches and vines, their silhouettes a choreography of mischief and grace. One reaches for a vine that arches toward the ground, testing gravity with a jaunty tilt of the head, then tumbles into a burst of unguarded joy. A mother elder watches from a distance, eyes ringed with wisdom, and when a youngster topples near her, she offers a slow, approving hoot that is part caution, part encouragement, her eyes gleaming with warmth. Time folds into a delicious slowness as our guides’ voices return, soft and cool with reverence. Stay low, stay close, keep faces soft, no sudden movements. We become observers who are both guests and witnesses, our cameras lowered not in fear but in gratitude. The gorillas move cautiously, a choreography born of centuries of rain, predators, and the ever-changing whims of the jungle. When they pause to study a fallen fruit, a chorus of tiny grunts and sighs ricochets through the air. Our glorious one hour visit sadly ends, and as we stride back toward the village edge, the forest exhales with us. The path widens into a mosaic of human warmth: a troupe of locals who greet trekkers with tea and stories, a grandmother weaving a papyrus mat, a craftsman turning palm fibres into bracelets and birdsong into barter. I share a cup of strong, sweet tea with a mother who tells me how Bwindi saved her family — the day tourism TRIP PLANNER Permits & Timing Gorilla trekking permits are limited and require advance booking through Uganda Wildlife Authority or partnered tour operators. Peak seasons are June–August and December–January; shoulder seasons (April–May, October–November) can offer lower crowds but higher rain chances. A typical trekking window is 2–8 hours after briefing (heightened variation by group fitness and gorilla movements). Trekking itself usually lasts 2–4 hours on uneven, steep terrain. KEY ACTIVITIES IN BWINDIMountain Gorilla Trekking: Track habituated gorilla families for a classic one-hour encounter in their natural habitat. Gorilla Habituation Experience: Spend up to four hours with a gorilla group, joining researchers to learn about their behaviour (only in Rushaga/Nkuringo sectors). Bird Watching: A paradise for birders with 350+ species, including Albertine Rift endemics like the Short-tailed Warbler and Blue-headed Sunbird, on trails like Buhoma Waterfall & Mubwindi Swamp. Hiking & Nature Walks: Explore trails like Buhoma Waterfall Trail, discovering waterfalls (Kashasha, Munyaga) and forest life (monkeys, butterflies). Batwa Cultural Experience: Learn about the indigenous Batwa people's traditional forest life, including hunting, crafts, dancing and stories, through guided forest walks and village visits. Community Walks: Engage with local Bakiga communities near Nkuringo to see blacksmiths, brewers, and homesteads, or visit schools. Mountain Biking: Available in Buhoma through projects like \"Ride 4 A Woman,\" offering guided rides through villages and forest edges. Coffee County: Learn what it takes to make a great cup of coffee: From Bean to Cup. Pick coffee cherries straight from the tree and stroll through coffee gardens. Conservation Note: Funds from permits and lodges support forest protection, ranger salaries, and community programs. Choose operators who demonstrate transparent community partnerships and conservation outcomes.
OUR SERVICES• DESTINATION MARKETING• TICKETING• HOTEL BOOKINGS• SAFARIS• HONEYMOON PACKAGES • DESTINATION WEDDINGS+256 782 555 213 +256 772 666 370 www.twende-uganda.com 4th Floor Acacia Mall14-18 Cooper Road, Kampala
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The writer is the Head of Corporate Affairs, PR & Sustainability at Uganda Airlines. Creating A Pipeline ForBy Rahim Shakila Lamar Women In Aviation N G ' A A L I 36 APRIL - JUNE 2026ON THE MOVEWe celebrated International Women's Day on March 8th, 2026. The global aviation industry finds itself at a compelling crossroads. This year's theme, \"Give to Gain,\" speaks directly to a powerful truth: investing in women is not just a matter of equity, but a strategic imperative that unlocks unprecedented economic growth, innovation, and resilience. It is a call to action to build an industry that reflects the diverse world it serves. The View from The Flight Deck: Confronting The Reality To be a woman in aviation is still, too often, to be a pioneer. It means navigating a world that wasn't always designed with us in mind, facing persistent structural barriers often described as the \"glass sky.\" According to Polska Grupa Lotnicza's 2022 report, women pilots make up about 4.69% to 5.8%, technical roles about 3% to 3.11%, Air traffic 20.6% to 21.12%, and only 6% of airline CEOs. Studies consistently reveal a \"perception gap\" in which women are far less likely to rate gender equality in their organisations highly. This isn't a failure of ambition, but a reflection of systemic hurdles, workplace cultures and stereotypes that limit ascent. But these are not immutable laws of physics; they are challenges to be engineered. The question is not if we can change, but how we accelerate the flight path towards a more inclusive horizon.The Uganda Airlines Approach: Building A Homegrown Pipeline The Airline is creating a homegrown solution to develop the next generation crop of aviators, full of talent and passion, irrespective of gender. At Uganda Airlines, we believe the future of African aviation must be shaped by African talent. We are moving beyond simply acknowledging the barriers, to actively dismantling them through a strategy focused on creating a powerful, homegrown pipeline of opportunity. Our commitment for tomorrow and beyond is built on three concrete pillars:Expanding Access & Visibility: The Airline will invest in expanded cadet pilot programmes designed to lower the financial and informational barriers that disproportionately hold talented young women back. We are also actively working to shatter the stereotype that aviation is just about pilots and mechanics. It is a universe of careers. From mechanical and electrical engineers to communication specialists, data scientists and cybersecurity analysts, aviation is deeply multidisciplinary. We are committed to telling every young girl that if she loves math, logistics, or even cooking, there is a place for her. Building Strategic Partnerships: We know that we cannot do this alone. That's why we are forging strategic partnerships with global aviation academies and industry giants. Just last year, we joined Boeing at Makerere University, engaging students and reminding them that integrity, discipline and a passion for technology are the keys to unlocking this world. These sessions are about inspiring young minds to embrace the technological transformations reshaping our world.Deepening Hands-On Skills: Recruitment is only the first step. To truly lead, one needs experience. We are intensifying our apprenticeship programmes in engineering, operations and leadership. This creates a knowledge pipeline, giving young Ugandans, especially young women, the hands-on experience they need not to just be part of the industry but to lead it, ensuring that Uganda Airlines becomes a beacon of ambition and a homegrown success story.
www.ngaaliinflightmag.com ON THE MOVE 37 To the women, do not allow stereotypes to define your journey. Do not give employers the excuse to choose your male counterpart because of assumptions about your capacity or that because you are a mother, you will therefore not be able to commit as much time to the job as your male counterpart. This must change. Show up. Deliver. Lead. And as women, we must also support one another. Our responsibility is not simply to succeed individually, but to lift as we rise, to mentor, to sponsor, and to create pathways so that the next generation of girls see aviation not as an impossible dream, but as a natural place for them to belong.The sky is our home. And together, we will ensure it is a home where everyone has a place. Let's all Give to Gain. campaign are driving measurable change, and the number of female pilots worldwide has grown significantly in recent years. But progress is a choice we make every day. To every woman reading this on your journey with us: know that your presence here, whether as a passenger or a professional, is a powerful declaration. You are proof that the barriers can be broken. As we look ahead, 2026 is a year of purposeful momentum. Let us all commit to active sponsorship not only to reach back and pull another woman forward, but also to put our own influence on the line to advocate for her. Let's challenge double standards when we see them and build workplaces, from the cockpit to the boardroom, that are as diverse as the world we connect. A Horizon of Progress We must also be intentional in our outreach. We see inspiring examples across the globe. Airlines like easyJet are partnering with organisations like Women in Data to actively create pathways for women into tech and AI roles, tackling the 4:1 gender disparity head-on through recruitment campaigns, mentoring and professional development. In Air Traffic Services, forward-thinking organisations are revamping their marketing to feature more women, ensuring that assessment panels are gender-balanced, and providing targeted pastoral care to support female trainees through their courses. These are not just nice-tohaves; they are strategic imperatives to attract the best talent. The global industry is also moving. Initiatives like IATA's 25 by 2025
Kigowa, Ntinda-Kiwatule Rd, Kampala+256 784 814141 /+256 776 979060Tiktok: @wavesfitnessharbourFacebook: Waves Fitness HarbourInstagram: @wavesfitness_harbourhttps://medium.com/@wavesfitnesshExperience world-class fitness in the heart of Kigowa. Located on Ntinda-Kiwatule Road, Waves Fitness Harbour provides an elite environment designed for professional athletes and families alike. OUR PREMIER FACILITIES Home to Uganda’s leading swim clubs, we offer a high-performance environment for every fitness level: Olympic-Size Pool: Uganda’s deepest public pool (3 metre), engineered to international competitive standards. State-Of-The-Art Gym: Fully equipped with modern gear and supported by certified personal trainers. Professional Pitch: High-quality artificial turf optimised for football and recreational play. Steam Bath: Premium recovery facilities to soothe muscles and relax the mind. The Lounge & Restaurant After your workout, unwind in our brand-new lounge. Enjoy a diverse menu featuring expertly prepared Continental and Local cuisine in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. Visit Us Today!YOUR PREMIER Wellness Destination
The Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development has signed Bilateral Labour Agreements with different countries to facilitate safe migration of citizens for job placements abroad. The Externalisation Of Labour Programme is regulated by Statutory Instrument No. 47, 2021, The Employment (Recruitment of Ugandan Migrant Workers) Regulations, 2021. This is in a bid to maximise the gains of labour migration.Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development Congratulates and Wishes His Excellency the President Elect a Momentous Swearing In CeremonyRATIONALE OF THE REGULATION• To promote full employment and equality of employment opportunities for all and to uphold the dignity and rights of Ugandan migrant workers; • To allow deployment of Ugandans to countries which have existing labour and social laws or are signatories to international agreements protecting the rights of migrants; • To protect every Ugandan desiring to work abroad by securing the best possible terms and conditions of employment;• To provide a mechanism for issuing licenses to recruitment agencies CHANNELS OF MIGRATIONUnder The Employment (Recruitment of Ugandan Migrant Workers) Regulations, 2021, workers may travel abroad for work through the THROUGH THE UGANDA GOVERNMENT EXTRENALISATION OF LABOUR PROGRAMMEfollowing channels: a) A licensed recruitment company. Under this channel, the company sources for the jobs from abroad, recruits and places workers abroad.b) Government to Government arrangement; c) Individual initiative. The worker sources for the job as an individual.The Government of Uganda is pleased to have signed Bilateral Labour Agreements with:• The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia• The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan • The United Arab Emirates • Qatar Discussions are already underway for bilateral labour agreements with other countries including Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait.THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDAMINISTRY OF GENDER,LABOUR & SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Travelling for work? This is what you need to knowPROCESS OF PLACEMENT OF MIGRANT WORKERSFOR MORE INFORMATION: +256 414 341 250 | www.eemis.mglsd.go.ug | www.mglsd.go.ug• The entire process is online on EEMIS• Immigration, JIC and Embassies departure information• Only companies accredited by a Ugandan Mission abroad can recruit domestic workers.• A four (4) party employment contract which makes recruitment companies in Uganda and recipient countries jointly and severally liable has been adapted.• Online systems for tracking the recruitment and location of domestic migrant workers, especially through the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Musaned system. • Uganda conducts regular Monitoring visits to: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. • Uganda participates in Inter-ministerial coordination meetings on externalization of labour.• All domestic workers are provided with telephone Sim Cards on arrival by the Government.• Recruitment companies in Saudi Arabia are subject to internal complaints and redress mechanisms for domestic workers.• Uganda conducts verification of documents from foreign recruitment agencies by Uganda’s mission accredited to the prospective recipient country.• Uganda Conducts country wide sensitization seminars and outreaches on safe labour migration with support from the International Organisation for Migration and the International Labour Organisation.COMPLAINTS HANDLING• Any person dissatisfied with a decision or action of a recruitment agency or employer is at liberty to file a complaint in writing by telephone or through e-channels of the Ministry i.e. Facebook, e-mails and Ministry website against the agency or employer with the Department of Employment Services or the nearest Ugandan Mission. • We receive complaints from all quarters – including aggrieved migrants, relatives, other Gov’t agencies, MPs, RDCs, NGOs – and even companies requesting for our interventions.• There is a complaints desk at External Employment Unit of the Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development (EEU) which handles complaints and helps migrant workers who call+256701162879 for complaints• Each and every case is responded to, investigated and a solution found.UGANDA EXTERNAL RECRUITMENT AGENCIES’ ASSOCIATIONMember companies are urged to: -• Develop investment plans for business growth and development of their respective institutions.• Share information and improve cooperation among private recruitment companies/agencies;• Self-regulate: By developing a binding code of conduct and ethics, and sensitize the members on the code of conduct and ethics; • Collect information on high-risk agencies through regular screenings of their members, as well as new membership applications.CLEARANCE OF MIGRANT WORKERS• Prior to travelling for work abroad, all candidates' information including individual migrant workers are submitted through EEMIS for clearance by the Ministry.• Migrant workers must have undergone pre-departure training for 14 days with accredited pre-departure training centres.• The Ministry clears submitted migrant workers within 3 days. • For domestic workers, the Ministry is connected to the Musaned Visa System of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia where the Ministry approves them for visa issuance. • At departure, candidates are cleared on EEMIS by Immigration Officers REQUIREMENTS FOR CLEARANCE• Valid Interpol letter for security guards• Copy of passport• Employment contract• Employment Visa (for individual migrant workers)• Training report in case of domestic workers• Valid job orderPROMOTE SAFE, REGULAR AND ORDERLY LABOUR MIGRATIONSCAN HERE:MigrantComplaints ModuleUG Embassy AccreditsForeign PreAUG Embassy Vets Job OrderDES Approves Job OrderMigrant WorkerOrientationDES Approves DeparrtureImmigration Exits MigrantMigrantHelp Line App(Sauti 116))Labour MigrantReturnee DataCollection Tool& Database
N G ' A A L I 42 APRIL - JUNE 2026Mombasa, known as the white and blue city of Kenya, has a population of 900,000. Its beachfront hotels appeal to travellers in search of sun, sand and surf, while its blend of India, Arabia and Africa can be intoxicating, and many visitors find themselves seduced by East Africa's biggest and most cosmopolitan port. Can't find a taxi? Travel by tuk-tuk, a three-wheeled auto rickshaw.Uganda Airlines flies to Mombasa thrice a week.EAT @ Tangezi RestaurantLocated at Baobab Beach Resort in Diani, the a la carte Tangezi Restaurant provides the perfect ambience overlooking the ocean for an unforgettable dining experience.STAY @ Jacaranda ResortLocated along the renowned white sands of Diani 100-roomed Jacaranda Indian Ocean Beach Resort, is a 100-roomed beautifully secluded resort with a rich Swahili-styled theme that is perfect for sun-seekers.Humphrey's Walking TourAs a Kenyan native with 15 years of experience as a tour guide, Humphrey's tour through Old Town Mombasa and Fort Jesus is full of information and stunning sights. Starting at 9am at the Yellow Coffee Pot outside of Fort Mombasa, it costs 30$ pp. Call: +1 (702) 648-5873 to book.A Visit To Sudi Island While on your holiday in Watamu, we recommend a full-day tour excursion to visit Sudi Island. The Island is located not so far from the beaches of Watamu, with packages including snorkelling and canoe rides. Sudi Island is a communitymanaged section of the mangrove forest. A canoe ride will have you visiting the mangrove trees and enjoying the tranquillity and peaceful water. Visit www.cheetahsafaris.co.keDON’T FORGET TOenjoy
www.ngaaliinflightmag.com 43 Nigeria's economic giant and cultural melting pot has emerged as an enthralling destination that captivates the hearts and minds of travellers from around the globe. From its pristine beaches and cultural landmarks to its vibrant nightlife and delectable cuisine, Lagos beckons adventurers seeking an authentic African experience unlike most.The city's coastline stretches for miles, offering pristine sandy beaches such as Tarkwa Bay and Elegushi Beach, where visitors can relax and indulge in thrilling water sports. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to Lekki Peninsula's serene nature reserves, such as Lekki Conservation Centre and Epe Mangroves, provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of Nigeria's diverse flora and fauna. Lagos combines modernity with traditional roots, ensuring an unforgettable journey filled with positivity, cultural richness and natural wonders.Uganda Airlines flies to Lagos thrice a week.STAY @RADISSON BLU ANCHORAGE HOTELThis modern beauty sits on the banks of the upscale Victoria Island in beautiful Lagos Lagoon. It’s Stoke Restaurant is a modern grill house which reflects primal cooking methods inspired by those whose focus is on the grill. Meat, fish, and vegetable dishes are cooked on an open flame, infusing each dish with authentic, smoky flavours.EAT @ SHIRO RESTAURANTWith an excellent view at the terrace and a cool breeze from the sea, the environment is so alive. The menu is diverse, and when it comes to Pan-Asian food in Nigeria, Shiro is consistently the best. THINGS TO DO: VISIT TARKWA BEACHUnwind at this remote and sheltered beach that's close to Lagos harbour. Only accessible by boat or water taxi from Lagos Island, this secluded beach is popular for swimming and water sports like jet-skiing and water skiing. At sunset, you can walk over to the nearby West Mole for awesome views from the breakwater. You'll want to spend a day here but you can also join a Lagos beach tour that will take you to all the best beaches in town. LagosA Pulsating Powerhouse
COMFORT.LUXURY.SOPHISTICATION.Neptune Hotels is a leading hotel group in East Africa. We operate 7 hotels: 4 beach resorts and one safari camp in Kenya, one resort in Zanzibar and a lodge in Tanzania. We take the utmost care to deliver the highest standard of service for total customer satisfaction.Our teams are trained to the highest standard to ensure you have a stress free and memorable holiday. Our aim is to exceed your holiday expectations by offering you the best resorts and safari camps at the best locations. Book a minimum of 45 days prior to arrival and spend less. This offer is valid at all Neptune Hotels. All Neptune Hotels are Covid compliant.+254 716 016 000 | [email protected] | www.neptunehotels.com
It is nestled in the heart of the exclusive Masai Mara North Conservancy. Immersed in the original bush among indigenous plantations and trees, the 20 luxury tents directly overlook the Mara River, which winds itself around the camp with gently flowing waters surrounded with wildlife and teeming with large groups of Hippos. Enjoy an al fresco lunch or evening BBQs around the pool, as you watch the Masai dancing and talking about their culture.Set on 50 acres of virgin Tanzanian bush in the Ngorongoro volcanic landscape, this all-suites log cabin style retreat is located a few steps from the Game Reserve Gate and is 20 minutes’ drive away from the Ngorongoro Crater, said to have the most dense concentration of wildlife in Africa. The property features 20 spacious private cabins with a fireplace, a restaurant, a bar and conference facilities. Relax at the swimming pool or at the Earth & Rain Spa after a full-day game drive.+254 716 016 000 | [email protected] | www.neptunehotels.com
This is the ideal choice if you are looking for that “special touch”, and the finest of details. The luxurious resort was meticulously created to emulate traditional Zanzibari style using the best in local design, interiors and furnishing to meet top international standards. The 190 deluxe and 4 master suites all offer Indian Ocean views. It is located North East on Zanzibar’s best beach on the Kiwengwa shoreline, 45km from The International Airport and Stone Town.Set in a beautiful tropical garden and totally renovated in 2016, the 92 rooms are in makuti roofed cottages with only 4 rooms per unit. Restaurants and bars form a perfect match between hotel and nature and offer a real African atmosphere. The resort is located at the South Coast at the famous Diani Beach. Mombasa town is 40km, Moi International Airport 45km, with the Ukunda Airstrip only 8km away.+254 716 016 000 | [email protected] | www.neptunehotels.com
Seated at Diani beach, this 165-room gem is a perfect match between resort and nature thanks to makuti roofs all through. It is one of the widest beachfront hotels in Mombasa. A 4-star-plus boutique hotel set in beautiful tropical gardens on a prime beachfront location at Diani Beach, South Coast. The 60 rooms are in makuti roofed cottages with only 4 rooms per unit. Located at Bamburi Beach, the special highlight is the lush garden area and the new terrace with a view of the Ocean. There are many quiet areas throughout the resort including the newly created “coffee shop” to offer you calm and relaxation. +254 716 016 000 | [email protected] | www.neptunehotels.com
N G ' A A L I 50 APRIL - JUNE 2026 DESTINATION LONDONA weekend exploring historic landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods and Uganda’s influence woven into the life of Britain’s capital. Words by Andrew WhiteGrand royal landmarks sit beside cafés serving flavours from every continent as communities from across the globe have shaped this city. Among them, a lively Ugandan diaspora has influenced London’s food, culture and church life for decades. FridayMorningAfternoonEveningThe journey begins as your Uganda Airlines flight lands at Gatwick Airport. After arrivals, hop on the Gatwick Express for a quick half-hour ride to Victoria Station, the heart of central London. For a truly British start, grab a “Meal Deal” from Boots, then catch a double-decker bus (number 11 or 24) and sit upstairs as you make your way to the fountains and statues of Trafalgar Square. Where To Stay The Trafalgar St. James London is a stylish, centrally located hotel offering sleek rooms and easy access to the capital's landmarks and riverside walks. After dropping your bags off, step outside to see Uganda House at the heart of Trafalgar Square. Walk along the South Bank as the Thames glistens and riverboats pass the London Eye and Houses of Parliament. Hop on a riverboat from Westminster Pier, gliding past the historic waterfront landmarks and famous bridges, including Tower Bridge, whose iconic suspension structure offers a perfect introduction to London’s skyline. As the sun begins to dip, head south to Peckham, a vibrant district alive with East African energy. A scenic ride on the 78 bus delivers you to streets lined with eclectic restaurants and cafés. At 139 Fika, savour the fusion of African, Caribbean and British flavours — spicy stews, sweet pastries and coffee — as the skyline glows behind you. Enjoy the neighbourhood’s streets and community atmosphere as you take in the sunset across London.