Travel Uganda 4 printing.compressed

Showcasing Tourism Potential Festivals have
turned Kampala
SseseIssue 8, September 2017 into East Africa’s
entertainment
Islands
Capital
Home to Buganda’s heritage

UWEC initiatives bringing
Ugandans closer to wildlife

HBishaopJnanminegston
memorial site

Inside.; Sustainability, growth and continued cooperation will boost tourism

Mount Elgon Hotel

Opened in 1977, Mt. Elgon Hotel & Spa is by far technology complete with sauna, steam bath
the best hotel in Eastern Uganda. It has the best and jacuzzi, with different body treatments is
hospitality services and amenities with spacious another place to stop. The hotel pays excellent
rooms and a good interior. attention to the security that makes hotel guests
feel comfortable.
The bathrooms too are spacious, with clean and
newly renovated amenities. Our main restaurant Our staff are very attentive, dedicated and
in the hotel serves both local and European friendly. Please be advised that there is a
cuisine. It is well furnished and an ideal venue wireless connection for internet in the entire
for dinners & luncheons. There is a wide choice hotel.
of tasty dishes ranging from oriental, western
and traditional delicacies under attractive We have state-of-the-art, well-appointed
ambiance and with the view of our mountainous meeting rooms with modern facilities. We
sceneries plus dedicated, hospitable staff. provide you with a public address system,
projector, notepads, flip charts and a flip chart
The fully equipped spa with the latest stand.

Plot 30 Masaba Road | +256 703 827 438 /+256 773 008 903 /+256 454 433 454
Email: [email protected]

ExBpeeyocntdaYtoiuor ns

Perfectly placed in the suburbs of Mbale Mini-golf court
town, Mount Elgon Hotel & Spa is eastern Honeymoon packages
Uganda’s most celebrated and glamorous Gift Shop
luxury hotel. Safari & Tour

Services offered include; Extras & Uniqueness
Accommodation
Restaurant We offer residential clients free access to
Swimming Pool our Health Club (Steaming, Sauna, Jacuzzi
Conference facilities and Swimming. We do also offer them
Wireless Internet complementary drinking water in their
Steam, Sauna, Gym & Jacuzzi rooms plus a pass to our mini-Golf Game
Hotel Shuttle Services in addition to free internet services as they
enjoy our beautiful scenery of the Elgon
www.mountelgonhotel.com Ridges.

Mt-Elgon-Hotel-Mbale-Uganda

5 World conver es on Ssese for
Tourism Day celebrations

10 UWEC initiatives brin in
U andans closer to wildlife

16 Ssese Islands: Home to
Bu anda’s herita e

28 Northern U anda: Tulambule!
Come lets tour U anda

30 Rememberin Hon. Maria
Lube a Muta amba

34 Festivals have turned Kampala into
East Africa’s entertainment Capital

46 First impressions of East
African cities

Other Features:

22 | Mabamba Wetland: A breedin
centre to 300 bird species with a unique
canal to Busi Island
27 | Gulu is beatin the odds
42 | Tourism potential in the
Rwenzori re ion
44 | Bishop Hannin ton memorial site
54 | Rwanda: Caravan ives milea e

Publisher Publishing Director Legal Print Order: 3,500
HAI TRAVEL SERVICES LTD Charles Opolot Alex Bagada Printed by:
JK BUILDING, NTINDA BLOCK A5, New Vision Printing & Publishing
P. O. BOX 24413, KAMPALA [email protected] Sales & Marketing Manager Co. Ltd
Disclaimer: The views expressed in
Tel: 0752500312/0772232117 Director Charles Okiria this publication are not necessarily
Email: [email protected] Justine Ojangole those of the publishers or any other
[email protected] organisation associated with this
publication. The publisher does not
In Partnership with: [email protected] Finance & Administration guarantee the accuracy of content
from the contributors and advertis-
Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife & Consulting Editor Mary Ritah Namazzi ers nor accept the responsibility of
Antiquities Peter Mwayi any statements herein.
Plot 618, Rwenzori Courts, 2nd Floor Distribution Manager
P. O. Box 4241, Kampala, Uganda [email protected] Sam Okello

Tel: +256414-314000, 414-314268 Contributors Design &layout
Email: [email protected],ps@ Bridget Nanteza, Charles opolot
tourism.go.ug Erich Ogoso, Melisha Ipiiya, Shanice Peter Mugeni
Achom, Melisha Ipiiya
2 [email protected]

Travel Uganda, shining Editorial
a spotlight on Uganda’s
immense potential Tourism is a three-way inlet into the
economy. Ugandans can earn directly
In Au ust, I went on an en a ement in the West Nile through offering tourism sites and
re ion. For about 5 days, the team and I traversed the initiatives that attract tourists. They can earn
ei ht districts that comprise the re ion. indirectly through becoming suppliers, tour
agents, advertisers, publishers, to mention
Spread across vast and unexploited lands, but a few. Ugandans can also earn through
crossing river after river, the experience was induced impact, for example, family members
breathtaking. The interaction with the people of a tour operator earning from the activities
and their amazing hospitality is a tale to tell. of the said person.
This not withstanding the fact that we were
on a mission to interact with refugees from That said, however, we, as a country, must
neighbouring South Sudan and document begin to think of sustainability as we explore
their experiences. This too was very humbling the tourism potential of the country. What
an experience. does it mean to have sustainable tourism?
Beyond all measures, there is need to avoid
The theme for this year’s World Tourism As hoteliers tap into the potential of the islands over exploitation of the already dwindling
Day celebrations is sustainable tourism for to make them rich, we as a country also need resources that we have as a country and
development. This therefore points us to to think how best can we better explore the as communities. As the human population
the questions posed across the globe. Are sitting potential of these 84 islands to turn this grows, there is already a lot of pressure on
we as a country utilizing the sector to the country’s economy around. Tourism is by far resources such as land and water. Yet it is
fullest potential. Is thesector contributing to the highest earner of foreign exchange yet these same resources which we are sharing
development? Is it creating jobs for the people even still a lot more needs to be done. Once with the wildlife that is drawing in tourists.
of Uganda? this is done, once we develop our resources, This competition should not be made worse
the sky is the limit for how much as a country with us utilizing the resources as if there Is no
How can the people of the West Nile best and as individuals, we can rake into our foreign tomorrow.
benefit from the vast lands and not to mention exchange reserves.
the already existing tourism sites such as the The world, and in no exception Uganda, is
Murchison Falls National Park, through which facing adverse effects of climate change. This
one drives hundreds of kilometres before too must be thought through as we strive to
getting to the first main trading area in the ensure sustainability of the tourism sector.
region, Pakwach. Besides, this, is social instability and conflicts
between Ugandans and the management
As we ponder over these questions, Kalangala Travel Uganda magazine this year has shone of national parks in the country. We must,
District will this year host the national the spotlight on the areas with rich resources as a nation, address all these matters before
celebrations of the World Tourism Day. Yet but are not yet explored to the capacity that they send away tourists. Measures such as
again unexplored, the Ssese Islands have stood will help develop the sector. maintenance of our forest cover will help
tall and appealing to tourists from across the retain visitor numbers.
globe. Several tourists we interacted with on Have a good read as we celebrate with you the
a recent tour of Kalangala were pointed to the World Tourism Day in Kalangala. Uganda cannot work as an island. As we think
islands by others who had been to visit. Several of sustainability and growth of the sector
if not all of them, were sure to recommend Charles Opolot, Publishing Director and earnings, we also must realize the need
another visitor to the islands. for a cooperation framework in the region
and on the globe.. How many tourists can
our current attractions bring in? How much
does the sector contribute to the country’s
GDP and how much foreign exchange does
the sector bring in? All these questions, once
properly explored will see growth, not just for
the sector, but for the country and its citizens.

3

Quick Facts

Administrative divisions: 111 districts History: Uganda gained her
across four regions. independence from Britain in 1962,
maintaining its commonwealth
Area: 93, 065sq km (land: 76, 101 sq. km, membership.
water 16, 965 sq. km)
Industries: Cotton, coffee, Tea, sugar,
Borders: 2698 KM (Democratic Republic tobacco and textile.
of Congo 765Km, Kenya 933Km, Rwanda
169Km, South Sudan 435Km, Tanzania Geography: Uganda is landlocked.
396Km) The South of the country includes a
substantial portion of Lake Victoria. The
Banking hours: Mon to Fri 8.30 am to center is dominated by Lake Kyoga.
6.00pm.
Languages: the official language is English
Business hours: Mon to Fri 8.30 am to although many other languages are
5.30pm. spoken in Uganda

Capital: Kampala. Public holidays: January 1 (New Year’s
Day), January 26 (NRM Liberation day),
Climate: Tropical .Rainy seasons, March March 8 (International Women’s Day),
to May, and September to November; Good Friday, Easter Monday, May 1
dry seasons December to February and (Labour Day), June 3 (Martyrs day), June
mid-June to mid-August. Mean Annual 9 (National Heroes’ Day), August 30
temperatures range from about 16°C (Eid al-Fitr/End of Ramadan), October 9
(61°f) in the South West highlands to (Independence Day), November 6 (Eid
25°C (77°F) in the North West ; but in al-Adha/Feast of the sacrifice), December
the North East, temperatures exceed 25 (Christmas Day) and December 26
30°C(86°F) about 254 days per year. (Boxing Day).

Currency: Uganda Shillings. (UGX) Population: 36.8 million (2013 estimate)

Exchange rates: US$1=UGX 3,500(July International Dialing code: +256
2017)
Time: GMT +3.
Elevations: Highest Point: Margherita
Peak on Mt Stanley at 5, 110meters Religions: Christians 84% Muslims 12%
others 1 % non 0.7% (2002 census)
Ethnic groups: Baganda, Itesots, Basoga,
Banyankore, Banyarwanda, Bakiga, Topography: the greater part of Uganda
Lango, Acholi, Lugbara, Banyoro, Batooro, consists of a plateau along the western
Karimojong, Bagisu, Madi, Japandhola, boarder are the Ruwenzori mountains.
Samia, Kakwa, Nubian, Bugwere, Banyole, The eastern frontier is dominated by
Bakonzo, Alur, Kumam and European Mount Elgon while the western rift valley
among others. runs from north to south through the
western half of the country.
Electricity: 240 volts AC 50 Hz. Square-pin
plugs mostly used.

4

World conver es on Ssese for

TOURISMDay celebrations

By Peter Mwayi

On 20th September, the world will conver e in Kalan ala District.
The Ssese islands will be host to the World Tourism Day Celebrations
marked every 27th September.

The United Nations General Assembly announced the public sector as well as private sector decision-makers
2017 as the International Year of Sustainable Tourism and the international community. The celebrations will
for Development, affirming that tourism can also aim at, mobilizing all stakeholders to work together in
contribute to all the three dimensions of sustainable making tourism a catalyst for positive change.
development – economic, social and environmental
– and each of the 17 Sustainable Development The World Tourism Day 2017 in Uganda has come at the
Goals. peak of a variety of fetes that have been happening in the
country, but especially in the Capital, with the Uganda
In the same spirit, the World Tourism Day Tourism Board coming out to say the festivals have shone a
celebrations will presents a unique opportunity
to raise awareness on the contribution of spotlight on Kampala. Visitors from the entire region, not
sustainable tourism to development both in to mention the world, have over the year frequented
Kampala to participate in festivals.

Passengers disembark
the MV Pearl on arrival
at Luku on Bugala Island
in Kalangala.

5

A plate of meat, locally known as luwombo.
Culinary toruism is one of the key activities
that will interest tourists in Kalangala.

Part of the Bidco oil palm forest in Kalangala.

Parliamentarians will on 21st September be
briefed on the sustainable tourism agenda. The
briefing to be held in Kampala, will highlight to
the law makers the direction that the sector
intends to take.

On 22nd September, just before tourists leave
for Kalangala, there will be a public debate. The
purpose will be to engage the public in Kampala
on the importance of the celebrations. The day
will end in the tourism night celebrations both in
Kampala and in Kalangala.

A variety of activities have been lined up for the Tents at a camping site in a hotel in Kalangala. Some tourists prefer camping to sleeping in hotel rooms.
week long stay for Tourists from arrival at the
islands to the last day when official celebrations at Lutoboka pier on Bugala Island a few minutes that travellers inquire from the resorts at Bugala
will be marked before departure on D-Day. before 6pm. The following morning, the ferry island to get accurate and updated travel
Notable among these activities, which may leaves the island at 8am. First class seating information.
excite the tourists most will be the island hoping. costs Shs14,000 and second class is Shs10,000.
Vehicles cost Shs50,000. It is recommended From Kasenyi landing site: To get to Banda
As a group, the tourists will have the opportunity that intending travellers arrive 2 hours before Island, there are small wooden boats departing
to move from one island to the other. There are departure time in order to get a seat since it is from Kasenyi, a fishing village 7km off Entebbe-
84 islands forming Ssese and of these 66 are served on a first come-first serve basis. Later Kampala road; turn off is 5km outside Entebbe.
habitable. Tourists will have the opportunity to arrivals normally stand on the deck regardless of Boats from Kasenyi to Banda Islands leave daily
visit all the islands that have special sites such as how much they paid. with varied schedules that some days is direct
the Nanziri falls and Kadu Wanema on Bukasa and others stops via Kitobo Island.
Island. The Ssese Tree on Bugala is a must see. A free car ferry links Bukakata mainland located
For agro-tourism, the mesmerizing oil palm tree 36km east of Masaka with Luku on Bugala On Bugala island there are shared taxis that run
forests planted by BIDCO are an eye-catching Islands about 50 minutes sailing away. The ferry from Kalangala to Luku at a cost of Shs7,000
adventure. makes 6 trips either directions every few hours though most hotels provides transport to their
from early morning to late afternoon, with clients from and to the ferry docks.
Two routes will get tourists to Kalangala. changing ferry schedules. It is recommended
Through Entebbe, at Nakiwoggo Landing Site,
the MV Kalangala departs at 2pm daily arriving

6

Conserve the Crested Crane the official
National Bird to promote Tourism in Uganda

Access Your DTB Account from your
Mobile Phone anytime, anywhere

Dial *202# and follow the prompts or App

Home Away From Home...

Services offered Other activities offered
Self-contained cottages with a seating Nature walks.
area. Boat rides.
Fully stocked on-site bar. Canoeing.
Free private parking. Biking.
Rooms are equipped with a TV with cable
channels.

Free shuttle services Popular for fishing & canoeing

8 For Reservations, Call; +256 773 015574
Or email us on; [email protected] | www.panoramacottages.co.ug

Ssese Habitat Resort

Ssese Habitat Resort (SSEHAB) is an exciting resort built on the summit of an ever green Island of Bugala (Kalangala
District), the most developed of the 84 that make the famous Ssese Islands of Lake Victoria. Ssese Habitat Resort
provides the best opportunity for guests to experience the great tourist potential in Uganda. The island atmosphere
provides comfort and a peace of mind to those who attach quality and serenity to their vacation, holiday and work

schedules.

Amenities

Ssese habitat Room chance to taste real Ugandan food. It offers available on request though visitors can
sensuous mouth-watering buffets compris- carry their own.
Ssese Habitat Resort has 19 fully furnished ing of a variety of dishes.
rooms – five self-contained luxury rooms Health Club
offering full board bed and breakfast. It also has a fully stocked bar that includes
a variety of wines, beers and soft drinks as Health Club with sauna and steambath.
All rooms are installed with satellite tele- well as spirits.
vision and are opulently furnished to offer Other Activities
maximum comfort and relaxation with full Camping
view of the lake. Conference facilities, Wifi- Internet, Swim-
Ssese Habitat Resort has also got camping ming, Nature Walks, Boat Rides, Beach
Dining & wining grounds for those who would wish to enjoy Games. We also offer pickups from the
the wild by sleeping in tents. Tents are dock to the hotel and from the hotel back
Ssese Habitat Resort gives visitors the to the dock.

Email: [email protected] | Tel +256 (0) 772 506 605

UWEC initiatives bringing
Ugandans closer to wildlife

“U anda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) has been able to survive and o er conservation
education, rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife, captive breedin of endan ered species as
well as edutainment and promotion of tourism with special emphasis on domestic tourism,
because of the support that U andans have iven us as well as other tourists.”

This is so because the money that is contributed is largely nature-based. So in order to achieve sustainable
goes back to the welfare of the animals and also the tourism, we need to sustain our natural environment.
running of the centre itself.
As we speak right now, Tourism is bringing in about Shs7.2 trillion
We have also put in place several innovations that annually to the economy, which is about 9.7% of Uganda’s GDP.
have contributed to the sustainability and continuous Tourism is creating more than one million jobs which is about
improvement of the centre. These include taking the zoo 7.8% jobs created in Uganda. UWEC alone employs about
to the people. We have been able to take wild animals to 2,000 Ugandans directly and indirectly and this is besides the
communities of Ugandans and educate them. We have other agencies employing Ugandans in the tourism sector.
taught Ugandans about the dangers of these animals, and In otherwords, tourism must be supported. The bedrock of
how to deal with them when they get in contact with them. tourism is conservation. So taking animals to the people will
help influence positive behaviour among the people towards
We are trying to demystify the fear that people have towards animals.
wild animals. We need people to understand animals
because unless they love and understand them, there cannot The other innovation is accommodation at the zoo. We have
be a connection between people and animals. Communities hostels, bandas, cottages apartments and camping gear
need to preserve and conserve the environment, as well as which are very affordable. Families can come spend time
the flora and fauna. This is because our tourism in Uganda at the centre. This makes the zoo a complete experience.
We have also developed the longest beach line in Entebbe,
which has become popular for weddings and other parties.

We also have specialised tourism products such as feeding
animals and walking with them. For these behind-the-scenes
experience, a tourist pays a little more but it is a relaxation
experience that every person would want to have. We have
set in place a child play centre, a picnic area among other
special programmes.

James Musinguzi, UWEC Executive Director speaks to Travel Tourism is bringing in about Shs7.2
Uganda. trillion to the economy annually
which is about 9.7% of Uganda’s
10 GDP. Tourism is creating more than
one million jobs which is about
7.8% jobs created in Uganda.

Zebras feeding at the centre.

Charles the elephant plays with an attendant.

School children on a tour of UWEC recently. Family time for monkeys at UWEC The two rhinos at UWEC feed.

We have developed the centre basing on the echo systems aspirations, we have to engage the more than 70% youth
of Uganda, the Savannah, Greenland and the animals population in Uganda. They are good at influencing, so we
found in those areas. Besides this, we have also developed try to make the tour as affordable as possible to make the
our exhibits basing on the national parks in Uganda. So the youth included.
centre is working as a window on Uganda.
UWEC invites every Ugandan to come to the rebranded
As a deliberate effort, we have designed the tour to the Zoo Entebbe zoo as the ultimate experience. It is not only for
to be as affordable as possible. We have also made sure children but for adults as well.”
we include the youth in our plans. If we are to achieve our
11

Residential bandas a the Zoo.

The Kob, Uganda’s official animal. Tourists viewing animals at the Zoo. Feeding time for Charles.

A night at the Uganda Wildlife
Education Centre

For majority U andans, a trip to U anda Wildlife Educational Centre (UWEC) in Entebbe,
is nothin more than a fun day trip to see wild animals while children make use of the
children play area desi ned like an amusement park.

Upon arrival at UWEC past the floating Hotel is a road leading The rooms are well-furnished with a small kitchenette containing
to the backside. Alternatively, one can branch off, past the a fridge, bread toaster and cooker plus comfortable beds with
Budongo Chimp Island on your way to the administration mosquito nets.
block in the centre commonly referred to as Pentagon.
Some bandas are furnished with single, large and small bed which
Walking past the giraffe holding facility are six well-constructed is perfect for families while other bandas are furnished for group
bandas where guests are allowed to spend a night. Each banda is visits. There is also a storied banda with four beds at very user
named after wildlife areas in Uganda with rent going for between friendly prices and ideal for a friends-day out.
US$20 (about Shs50,000) to about US$40 (about Shs100,000).

12

Want to blend with nature? The centre awakens the picnic urge Many of these animals were rescued from poachers or smugglers
in you by offering camp services along the beach line at around and are rehabilitated at the centre pending their release back into
US$15 (about Shs39,000). the wild.

The management offers a free guided tour around the centre for Part of the fun of staying at the centre is that after darkness falls,
all guests in the morning. some of its more interesting animals become active. Lions, leopard
and hyenas wander around their cages, with their eyes reflecting
If you would love to have a bite, the centre has a restaurant, the like headlamps. Growls, roars and giggles also abound throughout
Zoo café which sits just above the centre beach. A person can walk the night and it is easy to feel a little bit vulnerable, despite being
along the lake shores and watch fishermen or children play on the 100 per cent safe.
jungle gym or pet wandering camels and donkeys.
Utility
The centre itself has three different areas; the Savannah, wetlands
and a forest. These represent the ecosystems that can be found To reach UWEC, take the Kampala-Entebbe Road, about 5km from
inside many of Uganda’s different national parks. the Airport and 40kms from Kampala.

There are a variety of animals such as lions, leopards, hyenas, For public means, take a matatu from the taxi park in Kampala
waterbucks, cobs, zebras, rhinos and assorted primates, crocodiles to Entebbe, branch off at Entebbe Botanical beach hotel stage
and birds. and take a motorbike (boda boda) to UWEC. For reservations;
+256 (0) 414 320 520, +256 (0) 414 332169/171/172

Plus others

Our Branch network covers:
JINJA, MASAKA, GULU, FORTPORTAL, MITYANA, HOIMA, MBARARA, ENTEBBE, IGANGA,

SOROTI, MBALE,LIRA, ISHAKA, ARUA, MASINDI, MUBENDE, KYENJOJO

13

HOTEL

Wash and Wills Hotel is the most prestigious Hotel in Uganda’s Eastern
Region. The Hotel offers luxurious and comfortable environment to relax,
unwind and rejuvenate in an ideal location which is conveniently 1.5Km
to Mbale Town, on the main road from Kampala.
It is furnished with modern facilities in fusion with antique furnishing
which makes it the preferred choice for affluent travellers to Mbale.
With an impressive array of amenities in the rooms, restaurants,
conference rooms and the bars, ranging from Wifi internet connection, flat
Screen Satellite TV, 24 hours of room service, guests are assured of high
quality comfort standards.

The place where East Africa meets

Facilities, Services and Accommodation

The hotel offers a wide range of rooms and suites with Dinning HOTEL
fine fabrics, bright and airy rooms, and picturesque
views that inspire daydreams. Features and facilities The hotel offer a unique and world class
cuisine under a refreshing ambiance. Our entire
• Large LCD Satellite TV with many other viewing channels Restaurant and Bar have distinct themed decor.
• Large reading desk and comfortable chairs Most of our ingredients are fresh from local
• Complementary high speed internet access with full business farmers around.
service
• Air condition in all suites and some Deluxe rooms Bars
• Mosquito nets
• High pressure showers With a unique style, our pool bar offers a
conducive ambiance for relaxation as you enjoy
Deluxe Room your favourite drink. The bar has open terrace
which overlooks the garden and you can catch
Our Deluxe rooms offer comfort and luxury. They are up with latest sport through our big screens.
all fitted with modern amenities, rainy showers, queen
size beds, 300 thread- count sheets, 32 inch LCD, Conference
comfortable working station, spacious balconies with
beautiful views and a high speed internet. The hotel is the largest conference and event venue
in Mbale. Besides being the leading cooperate
Junior suite event venue, the hotel has several conference
halls which may accommodate 50 people to over
Wash and Wills junior suites are of superior quality 500people.
offering extra comfort with a wide seating area. They
are fully equipped with modern amenities, rainy Garden
showers, king size beds, 300 thread- count sheets32
inch LCD, enhanced work desk lighting, lavish The hotel has spacious and beautiful gardens. The
balconies with beautiful views, Air condition and a gardens are designed to host various functions
high speed internet. The Hotel offers Laundry Services ranging from birthday parties, Graduation parties,
at a cost. weddings and team building activities.

Executive suites Other Services

Our executive suites offer classic accommodation with Wash & Wills Hotel also offers Sauna & Steam,
separate living room and ensuite bedroom to offer Massage and Aerobics Services. The Serene
privacy. All the suites offers modern decor, furnished environment allows for our guests to throw back,
with a rain shower, king size beds, 300 thread- count relax and have a meaningful holiday. On top of
sheets32 inch LCD, enhanced work desk lighting, all this, children will also have fun time at our
lavish balconies with beautiful views, Air condition Children’s Park and swimming pool with 24 hour
and a high speed internet. The Hotel offers Laundry attendants to ensure safety of children.
Services at a cost.

Ssese Islands: Home to The
Buganda’s heritage

Bu ala, the lar est of the 84 Ssese islands that make up
Kalan ala District, is located approximately 60km across
water, southwest of Entebbe on Lake Victoria. The second
lar est island in East Africa is where the Kalan ala District
headquarters are found, writes Peter Mwayi.

Formerly Ssese District in earlier regimes, of reviving the Bassese language by Omutaka Ssegaluma walks through Ddamula Fores
it later became Ssese sub-district under documenting it through interaction with those
greater Masaka District. In 1989 it was few remaining natives that can still speak it.
renamed Kalangala District. Ssese derived its Kalangala Resident District Commissioner
name from the famous Ssese tree which is Caleb Tukaikiriza confirms to Travel Uganda
believed to have super natural powers and that indeed the natives that can speak the
is worshipped by the natives of the area, the language are very few. Mr Tukaikiriza adds
‘Bassese’. that the tribe is so close to extinction mainly
because of the migration of people from other
According to Steven Ssendagire, the Omutaka parts of the country to the islands, but also
(landlord) of Buswa village, the Bassese are because many of the natives migrated from
now a small tribe nearing extinction. Mr the island after the onset of tsetse flies that
Ssendagire, who many refer to as Omutaka caused an outbreak of sleeping sickness, killing
Ssegaluma, says the ancestors of the Bassese many and displacing others in the early 1900’s.
were a very powerful lot with super natural
powers. So powerful were their powers that The famous Ssese tree is located in Mugoye
the earlier kings of Buganda used to consult village, approximately 18km away from
the kings of Ssese for powers to rule. On my Kalangala Town also on Bugala Island. The
visit to Ssese, the Kabaka would have to reach island derives its name from the Ssemugala
Luggo Forest found in Buswa and there he family who were the first inhabitants
would be given the Damula, {Spectre} which according to Mr Maurice Bafilawala, the
is the instrument of power. On our visit to the district environment officer, also a native of
area, boda boda riders knew the forest better the island and a member of the Ssemugala
as Damula rather than by its original name. family.

During the interview with Travel Uganda, Prominent on Bugala is the Lutoboka Bay. The
Ssegaluma reveals that he is in the process bay is host to 8 of Kalangala’s biggest hotels;

16

e entrance to the well where the Ddamula, the Katikkiro’s sceptre, is washed to gain holy powers. visitors from Lambu in Masaka District and
others from neighbouring Mazinga Island.
st where the Ddamula is got. Omutaka Ssegaluma’s shrine on Bugala Island.
The busiest site is Bugoma which receives
Victoria Forest Resort on the extreme end of visitors from Nyendo in Masaka. In Bugoma
the peer where the ship from Entebbe docks, the MV Pearl and MV Ssese make 6 trips to
Ssese Habitat Resort, Kalangala Pearl Resort, and from Nyendo every day. A ferry ride is
Ssese Islands Beach Hotel, Panorama resort, approximately 30-45 minutes, making it easy
Mirembe Resort and Brovad Beach Hotel. The to sail several trips unlike the 3-hour Entebbe-
beach is an open bay where visitors can walk Lutoboka trip.
from one end to the other, The 30-minute
beach walk is a famous tourist activity. Kalangala District is lit using solar energy,
managed by Kalangala Infrastructure Services.
The Speke Forts are another tourist attraction Many tourists are mesmerized by the sight
on Bugala. Also located in Lutoboka, the forts of the hundreds of solar panels at Bukuzindu
were built by famous explorer John Speke, who Hybrid Solar Power Station on Bugala Island.
is most known for discovering the source of The solar panels generate 1.6MW of electricity
River Nile on Lake Victoria. that is converted at Bukuzindu and distributed
to the community through a prepaid system.
Another kilometre away from Kalangala in
one direction is Mwena Landing Site which Culturally, it is a taboo to have sheep on the
hosts fishing communities. Most visitors to the islands. It is believed that if anyone carried
Landing Site are from Kasenyi Landing Site in a sheep or any product of sheep on them,
Entebbe on the mainland, Bukasa, Mazinga lightning would strike them or the area in
and Bunyana Islands. which the person is staying on the islands.

Approximately 26km still in a different According to Ssegaluma, the tradition stems
direction is Mulabana landing Site which hosts from history. Legend has it that Nakibinge, a
king of Buganda during the fierce war between
Buganda and Bunyoro kingdoms, came to
Ssese and asked then king of Ssese, Wanema
for his son Kyobe Omubazi to fight for Buganda.

Wanema at that time asked for a prince from
Buganda as collateral for his son. Nakibinge
returned to Buganda and sent his servant
Kalyesubula with one of the princes. As
Wanema handed over Kyobe to Kalyesubula,
he instructed that during the war, Kyobe should
never be exposed to any woman and should
never be allowed to interact or sleep with a
woman.

During the war, however, Kalyesubula was
pleased in one of the battles where they
captured several beautiful girls from Bunyoro.
As a reward, Kalyesubula allowed one of the
girls to sleep with Kyobe, who the Baganda
had renamed Kibuuka Omumbale because he
fought while flying.

After that night, the girl reportedly returned
to her tribesmates to whom she revealed

17

AasmthaenskenaereelsbteoliwevoerdshtiophaatvreeesuinpeKranlaantguaralal.pBoiwg terrese.s such it’s owner Wamala. This anger caused the
shaking of the earth, (earthquakes). To
Kibuuka’s fighting secret. It is said the Banyoro The Nanziri Falls, Ssese Islands. escape his grandfather’s wrath, Wamala
fighters used this revelation to capture
Kibuuka, who was killed as he landed in a tree Where to go moved to Buganda with his pot but
in Mpigi. when he arrived the earthquake
Nanziiri Falls on Bukasa one of the 84 caused it to break, forming Lake
Upon receiving news of his son’s death, islands of Kalangala District, are believed to Wamala.
Wanema cursed and lightning struck every have mysterious power. It is believed the
existing sheep on the islands. Since then, it is falls, located in Bubeke, unlike all others, Nsiirwe Island is famous for hundreds
believed that all sheep, which is Kalyesubula’s do not draw their water from a river but of varieties of birds which draw
totem, are struck by lightning when they rather from a stream powered by Nanziiri tourists from across the globe to come
set foot on the islands. Traditional religion herself. and watch.
is widely practiced in the islands of Ssese.
According to Mr Bafilawala, most traditional From Mwena Landing Site, a boat ride The mesmerizing ridges and caves are
gods are from the islands of Ssese. The takes tourists to Namirembe Landing Site another fascinating site in Kalangala
traditional name of Lake Victoria, Nalubaale, on Bukasa. This is also where Wanema’s located on Bujaana Island.
stems from the gods (Lubaale). Nagadya, the shrine is located.
mother of Kibuuka Omumbale, who today All the islands of Ssese are famous for
is a famous goddess among traditionalists in Cultural rituals are performed at the the immense forest cover. With 50%
Buganda comes from Ssese as does his father falls and a small distance away at the of the 468.3 Sqkms of land on the
Wanema, also the father of Mukasa, the god mesmerizing caves. islands having forests. A big chunk of
of the lakes, Musisi the god of earthquakes, these forests have been taken over by
and Wamala. It is said that Wanema, meaning the lame Palm oil producers BIDCO who grow
one, was originally called Ssemusulo. He oil palms. A big population of Kalangala
It is said Wamala left Ssese for Seganda is said to have been bitten by a dog on is also employed as outgrowers of oil
(Buganda) with a pot of water to fight. When the leg which made him lame. His father, palm.
he arrived in Mityana, he placed his pot down Musisi, was very angry with the dog and
and it broke, spilling the water in it, and this Agro-tourism is very popular. Hundreds of
formed Lake Wamala. tourists go on forest walks everyday on the
islands.
About Kalangala
The hills and valleys of Mazinga island
Of the total 9,1030 Sqkm of Kalangala, 468.3 are a breathtaking adventure. When one
sq kms are land and 8,634.7 are water. descends into a valley, they are surrounded
by water on all sides, giving the feeling of
being on a real island unlike most other
places where water can only be seen on
one side, depending where one is standing.

What to do

Beach hopping, Boat racing, Beach sports
and Forest walks. Sport fishing are some of
the exciting activities on the islands.

18

Nestled on the beach, this Bugala Island
hotel is within a 10-minute walk of
Kalangala Ferry Dock, Kalangala Beach,
and Kalangala Golf Course

Hotel Amenities

Total number of rooms - 40
Barbecue grill(s)
Free breakfast
Concierge services
Dry cleaning/laundry service
Tours/ticket assistance
Free WiFi
Laundry facilities
Garden &Picnic area
Luggage storage
Restaurant

Discover a whole different World

Our Offices are open 24/ 7, so you can feel free
to come in any time, we are here to serve you
CONTACT INFORMATION
Tel: +256 (0)414-349-107/ +256 (0) 772-372-164/
+256 (0) 774-977-163 /+256 (0) 701-465-944 /
+256 (0) 750-313-118 / +256 (0) 730 977 163
Email: [email protected]

19

Welcome to Victoria Forest Resort

Victoria Forest Resort is situated at Lutoboka Bay on Buggala island, the largest of 84 islands of Ssese, Kalangala, 500 metres
along the white sand beach on your immediate left of the Pier. The Resort Offers you the chance to relax in an African setting,
as reflected by the culture embodied in the splendor of the Gardens.
A quite, relaxing and entertaining countryside home whose tranquility is blended with the chanting birds and calm Victoria
water waves which wash the famous ever clean sand. It is a peaceful and luxurious home that combines nature and comfort.

P. O BOX 8317 Kampala, Uganda | Tel: +256 414 531645, +256 703 663389,

Honeymoon
Package

3 NIGHTS, 4 DAYS @
UGX 1,800,000 (USD500)

Accommodation for two people in
honeymoon suite

Welcome refreshment Daily Full continental
breakfast Choice of lunch Choice of dinner

Evening tea with a bite

Our Services Water recreation
Room and Cottages; Indoor and outdoor games
Bar and Restaurant Speed boat Ambulance
Laundry Facilities Nature walks
Kids Zone
Bird watching

| +256 776 663389, +256 704 412 054 | Email: [email protected]

Mabamba

Wetland
A breeding centre to 300 bird species with a
unique canal to Busi Island

Charles Opolot

It may not sound so common in the ears of tourism
enthusiasts but embraced by many for its exceptional
eco-tourism location. The wetland measuring about
17,000 hectares on the shores of Lake Victoria has an
open water with a large open marsh of miscunthus and
papyrus that makes it exceptional and loved by tourists.

The open water in form of a canal is “As they went fishing, people realized it group is involved in a
used to trail birds and access Busi was easier to cross to Busi and created a wide range of conservation
Island that is home to more than permanent canal leading to the island,” activities including tourism,
40,000 people. The swamp with high bird he says. He adds that on using the paths, education, awareness and habitat
species including the globally threatened, tourism enthusiasts saw it viable to develop protection. It’s voluntarily run by its
large congregations of migrant birds such as the place into an important birding site and members and is registered with the Mpigi
Blue Swallow and papyrus endemic birds, started promoting it to that direction. District Local Government.
Papyrus Gonolek, Yellow Warbler, Jacana,
King fisher, lap wines, heroines, eaglets Ms Irene Namubiru, a guide and an office There also projects by civil society
among others is visited by about 200 to 300 attendant, says they saw the tourism organizations such as Nature Uganda to
visitors per month. Upon arrival at the eco- potential and formed that Mabamba strategically target the conservation of the
tourism site, about eight boat riders will rush wetland eco-tourism association.“We now globally threatened species, especially the
to attract you into their boats asking whether handle visitors, guide them, aid them to Shoebill which eventually will benefit all
you are a passenger crossing to Busi or a track birds and protect against wetland species within this habitat. The project helps
tourist wanting to go bird-watching. encroachers,” She says. protect the birds’ breeding site and mitigate
major threats such as Shoebill trafficking.
Crossing to Busi goes for Shs 2,000 per Ms Namubiru says they are challenged by
person while birding goes for Shs 50,000. people who fear crossing the lake and would However, the local communities are the
The wetland designated as a Ramsar site, need to develop some kind of tourism on drivers of the initiatives, enhancing their
meaning it’s a wetland of international the land that can cater for people who fear livelihood through promotion of eco-
importance and an Important Bird Area, is crossing the water.“We recently got a mini tourism Mabamba Bay is one of the places
believed to be a major breeding site for the bus of visitors but only three managed to go where the highest number of Shoebills
endangered shoebill that is loved by many birding in the wetland as others stayed at the (15) has been recorded in one day and
birders. bay looking on,” she added. over a relatively small area. This kind of
concentration of the species has attracted
The shoebills are loved by tourists because She thinks that people can aid them develop tourists as well as wildlife traffickers looking
a large stork-like bird that obviously gets the nearby Banga Cultural Tourism Site that for both the eggs and the birds for trade.
their name from their unique shoe-shaped is a huge rock with shelter inside to cater for Recent reports from immigration office
bill and those in captivity prostrating before tourists fearing the lake. indicate increased incidences of culprits of
people who visit them as they prostrate wildlife trafficking being arrested at border
back. Mr Lawrence Simbwa is a boat captain Other than the association, community points, however, many still go unnoticed. On
at Mabamba bay wetland site. He says the members have also formed Mabamba Bird the other hand it presented opportunities
bay was intact until fishermen created paths Guides and Conservation Association, a Site for income generation for communities
to go fishing. Support Group to promote conservation through eco-tourism.
through community involvement. The

23

Suites, Guest Rooms, Resluurant, Conference, Gardens,
Shoping Swimming, Bonking & Business Centre

The ultimate destination in Mbale

Crown Suites Hotel Mbale Uganda is richly designed on a beautiful landscape overlooking
Mount Wanale, part of the great East African Mount Elgon. It offers unique and uxurious

amenities for your pleasure and comfort.

Crown Suites Hotel, Mbale | P.O Box 462 Mbale – Uganda | Tel: +256-702204727 | Cell: +256-788575503 or +256-772485605
E-mail: [email protected]/ [email protected] | Website: www.crownsuiteshotel.com

Located in Gulu town, the northern part of
Uganda, Hotel Kakanyero is the leading service
industry giving you a feeling of a home away from
home. From your arrival, our guests are well taken
care-of until their departure.
Once you enter the hotel, there is no need to
move out as all services are available within the
premises, such as laundry services, Internet,
Health Club, A mini supermarket among others.
Our hotel shuttles make it even easier since our
guests can be picked on arrival and driven back on
departure.

Plot 13-15, Banklane Street, Gulu
P.O. Box 650, Gulu Uganda

Email: [email protected]
www.hotelkakanyero.com

Conference Facilities | Gardens | Health Club | Restaurant

24

The Dove’s Nest
HOTEL

Dove’s Nest Hotel - Gulu
Plot 40 Lower Churchill Drive, Gulu | P. O. Box 420 Gulu Uganda
Tel: +256 787 585 582, +256 790 912 355
Email: [email protected] | Website: www.dovesnesthotel.com

Trading as Green, Relaxing and Inspirational, Dove’s Nest Hotel and service. At our restaurant, you shall be served delicious local &
offers the finest accommodation facilities in the Northern Uganda. Its international cuisines that will tantalise your taste buds.
class is complimented with stylish and spacious rooms as well as
un-matched quality of service. The hotel is located in the Gulu senior The rooms are spacious, designed and laid out to offer a natural
quarters and is known for it green, relaxing and quiet environment. sense of lighting and ventilation that is comforting. All rooms are
connected to DSTV, have Internet access, reading tables, and
We take extra care in making your culinary experience special by Intercoms for easy communication.
providing a warm ambiance, meticulous décor and superb food

27

DOVE NEST

The Northern paradise

Bomah Hotel Limited, the northern paradise is a Three-Star 90-room Classic Hotel located at the very heart of Gulu town. The hotel
stands on 3.5 acres of landscaped grounds with beautiful gardens, an oasis of cool green. The 5- storage hotel structure has two
elevators (lifts) and first class facilities with high guest turn over making it the northern paradise of Gulu. It has got an upcoming
new wing of 72 rooms inclusive of apartments.
We offer a wide range of services which include; Accommodation with the biggest and most prestigious suites, Restaurant, Bar,
outside catering, Function Facilities, Wireless internet, Health club services like sauna, steam, massage, saloon, Gym, Aerobics,
swimming with 24 hour CCTV surveillance Cameras for security and Ample Secure parking space

+256 779 945 06328 Plot 8 Eden Road. [email protected]
P.O. Box 931, Gulu-Uganda www.bomahhotels.com

Gulu is
beating
the odds

By Opolot Charles

Up to 2010, a first- Fort Patiko in Gulu, a former slave trade site.
time visitor to Gulu
would say; “I did not
know Gulu is as bi as
this - I thou ht I would
only see rass thatched
structures and a war-
ruined small town.” The
truth is far from this. The
town has slowly shaken o
the reputation of war.

Years after war ended in northern Karuma falls along the Kampala-Gulu Highway.
Uganda, Gulu today is an ambitious,
secure urban area with a host of
hotels, hospitals, educational and banking
institutions. It now boasts of 15 banks
including the world-renowned Barclays and
Standard Chartered.

Some of Uganda’s top hospitals such as St of the fort still stands, with visible axe marks Commercially, Gulu is strategically located on
Mary’s Lacor, Gulu Independent, and Gulu where the traders beheaded unfit or stubborn the highway to South Sudan, Uganda’s biggest
regional referral are based here. Lacor is where slaves. trading partner, which brings Sh54 billion
Dr Lukwiya was based – a Ugandan medic who monthly.
died trying to save others from Ebola.
Gulu has an airport, the second biggest after
Gulu also hosts the government-aided Gulu Murchison falls national park, the biggest in Entebbe.
University, the only one of its kind in that region Uganda and most popular, is just an hour’s
and historically significant schools: Gulu high, drive from Gulu on the Kampala highway. History
St Joseph’s College Layibi and Sir Samuel Baker. As well as its variety of animals, and the
It has some good hotels including Bomah, Murchison falls, it is here that large quantities Gulu town, which is 332kms from the capital
Dove Nest Hotel, Churchill, Golden Peace Hotel of commercially viable oil has, and is still being Kampala, was established by British colonialists
Acholi Inn, and Palema, among others discovered. 103 years ago. Its early commercial actors
were Punjabi Hindis who were mainly trading
Gulu has some of the best natural attractions Forty kilometres on Kitgum road stands the in household commodities like salt, soap and
within its vicinity. Forty kilometres north of Aruu falls which has been touted as a potential sugar. It was chosen to counter the slave trade,
the town is the iconic Sir Samuel Baker’s fort, hydro electricity generating station. To the east and to link Kenya and DR Congo.
where anti-slave campaigner Samuel Baker set in neighbouring Amuru, sits the Amuru hot
camp in 1877 to fight Arabs slave traders. Part springs.

27

Pictorial

Tulambule!

Come lets tour Uganda

The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and
Antiquities in conjunction with U anda
Tourism Board, U anda Wildlife
Education Centre and other tourism
a encies went on an expedition to
uncover Northern U anda tourism sites.
This experience is aimed at tappin into
the tourism potentials of di erent areas
by providin media exposure to those
attractions and also skillin the locals
with tourism marketin skills.

Places visited included Guru un Hill,
Aruu Falls, Wipolo Catholic Church and
Fort Patiko amon others The expedition
dele ation was led by the Rt. Hon.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Jacob
Oulanyah and State Minister for Tourism,
Hon. Godfrey Kiwanda.



HON. MARIA LUBEGA
MUTAGAMBA (R.I.P),
5. 09. 1952 – 24. 06. 2017

30

MARIA LUBEGA

MUTAGAMBA

Her passion for success gave birth to Miss
Tourism, a project that has changed girls’ lives

By Peter Mwayi Maria Mutagamba’s acts of kindness to the young teenager

were life changing moments, yet for her, these seemed like

With only Shs 3,000 in her bag, Barbara Nakitto turned acts of treating an ordinary girl to what she deserved in life, an
up at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel to audition for opportunity.
the search for the Miss Tourism beauty queen. Every
contestant was required to pay Shs5,000 as registration fee. The Barbara says she was surprised when during preparations for the

confidence that Barbara exhibited was enough to convince the finals of the Miss Tourism World competitions, she was told by

officials that she was the kind of person they were looking for. fellow contestants and organisers that her mother was outside

and wanted to speak to her. “Ofcourse I had no mother so I was

During the auditions that day, Barbara was asked about the then surprised that at this stage in my life, someone was claiming

Minister of Tourism, she not only had no idea, who the minister to be my mother,” Barbara narrates. To her surprise, waiting to

was, she had no idea what the person looked like. “When they watch as she competed for the crown was the

asked me if I had ever seen minister Mutagamba, and

the minister and if I could not just her but with a

tell them out of a crowd, delegation from Uganda,

I guessed all ministers who had come to cheer

are elderly people. So I their own.

looked among the panel An economist by profession, The trip to Malaysia according
and picked out the eldest Maria Mutagamba’s life is to Clare Atwongyeire, the
person,” she says. Luckily then Senior Personal Secretary
for her the guess was a most celebrated for her role in to Miss Mutagamba, was life
correct one. promoting Water, sanitation and

protection of environment in the changing for the minister. “In

Winning the contest months country. Malaysia mama interacted
later opened doors to a with a number of girls. Most of

whole new experience for them were from a disadvantaged

Barbara. For a girl that was background. Many had been raped

raised by a single father, being or defiled as young girls. She also

taken in to a minister’s home and interacted with many victims of

given her own room where, as she was told, she was to sexual abuse and many that had been

live forever whenever she wanted to, Barbara was adjusting sold to prostitution,” Clare says, adding that after the

to a completely different life altogether. trip the minister vowed to change the life of the ordinary

Ugandan girl.

“Generosity runs in the blood of the Mutagambas,” Barbara told

Travel Uganda, adding: “Marianne, her daughter gave me a suit “On the flight back to Uganda, Mama asked me what

case full of new clothes while I lived there. I was treated like a lessons I had learnt from the trip,” Clare adds, saying this was

daughter and sister, never feeling like a stranger in their home.” characteristic of Mutagamba, who always wanted people to take

a lesson from every experience.

31

Fallen Former Minister of Tourism, Hon. Maria Mutagamba (L) and the State Minister for Tourism, Hon. Godfrey Kiwanda Ssuubi at the first ever
Kampala Rolex Festival.

It was from Malaysia that Clare conceived to participate. She told me not to try too hard. something she always wanted to turn it around
the idea of the regional pageants and in 2014 That I should just get to Malaysia and enjoy and make a difference. “She got the name
organised the first Miss Tourism Kigezi Initiative. myself.” Marriane Mutagamba, the youngest Mama Water because of the passion she had
The initiative was immediately adopted by the daughter of the late minister, echoes this about as State Minister for Water. She managed to be
minister and it has been a big part of the Miss her mother. on so many panels like the African ministerial
Tourism annual event since then. panel for Water, and attended so many water
She says for her mother any achievement, conferences because of her passion. Whatever
In Malaysia, Barbara won the Miss Friendship however small had to be encouraged and it is you threw at her, she would embrace it with
crown, the first and only time such an award rewarded. “Mum loved people. Home was passion,” Marriane says.
has been given to anyone. “This was the most always full of people who called her mama.
excited I had ever seen Mama. To her no But in as much as she helped and encouraged On working with her mother on projects,
Ugandan had brought home an international people, she also always demanded results,” She Marriane says Mutagamba drew everyone
beauty crown, so the fact that I had carried this says, adding; “I always wanted to be a mother, around her into whatever it was she was
was good enough, however small.” Barbara but mum noticed I liked fixing things. This made involved. “I was working in our Tour company
says. her encourage me to become and engineer and at the time she started Miss Tourism, so she
this is how I ended up being an engineer.” asked why I did not get involved in this. This is
She recalls the times during the local how I came on board as the events manager,”
competitions and after when Mutagamba used Marriane says her mother passionately took on she says.
to encourage her. “As I travelled to Malaysia, she her first posting as State Minister for Water in
told me it was good enough that I had qualified 2000. She says whenever her mother took on A very enterprising woman, the late minister

32

owned a number of personal businesses,
some of which they had started earlier
with her husband. It is, therefore, of no
surprise that having identified bottlenecks
to growing the Miss Tourism project, the
minister decided to make it a personal
entity. Marriane explains that her mother
decided to do this because many potential
partners she had approached had preferred
to work with a private entity than with the
government.

An economist by profession, Maria President Museveni and members of the tourism fraternity led by the Late Hon. Maria Mutagamba meeting
Mutagamba’s life is most celebrated for the Secretary General of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Taleb Rifai.
her role in promoting water, sanitation and
protection of the environment in the country.

Like her daughter Marriane, her former
secretary Clare and her protégée Barbara,
many speakers at the funeral of the fallen
minister described her as hardworking and
principled.

By the time of her death aged 65, Mutagamba,
had served as the Rakai District Woman MP
from 1989 to 2016.

Not only did the minister start up a number of
projects while holding the Tourism docket, she
also promoted Tourism even in the way she
dressed.

Quoting the ruling NRM party treasurer Then Tourism minister, Maria Mutagamba (R), Tooro Princess Elizabeth Bagaaya (2R) with models at the
Ms Rose Namayanja, the New Vision launch of Miss Tourism Uganda 2013 at Tamaria Hotel in Kampala. The minister was at the forefront of
newspaper published an article during the reviving the beauty pageant that she believed would help market Uganda globally.
funeral in which they said youth admired
Mutagamba’s organisation and style of
leadership when she chaired former DP
president general Paul Ssemogerere’s
national campaign task force. “She worked
hard in the campaign and this was inspiring
for us, as Uganda Young Democrats,”
Namayanja said, adding: “Later, when I met
her in the Cabinet, you would still see a
passionate person, on matters concerning
the various ministerial posts that she held.
She spoke with authority, using fine details
and with eloquence.” In the Constituent
Assembly,

At the time of her death, she had just been Maria Mutagamba (RIP) inspects a locally mad bicycle during the World Tourism Day in Entebbe in 2012.
awarded an honorary doctorate by a university
in Canada.

33

Festivals have turned
Kampala into East Africa’s
entertainment Capital

By Bridget Nanteza

The tourism industry in U anda is rowin swiftly at a skyrockettin
speed. U anda Tourism Board (UTB) is the association authorised to
promote and popularise U anda as a viable holiday destination both
locally and internationally.

34

Since one of its roles is to increase the ask questions directly instead of depending on So many festivals are sprouting out lately i.e.
contribution of tourism earnings to a third party. It is also an opportunity for our Rolex, Muchomo, Pork, Cake and Ice Cream
Uganda’s economy, we had a one- local tourism businesses to get to network for festivals among others. What is your take on
on -one with its Executive Director, Steven business purposes. this issue? What does it mean for the Tourism
Asiimwe, on how far the board has achieved in Board .... negative or positive impact?
relation to the country’s tourism sector. Q: Highlight some of the developments, This is a great development in the tourism
projects and innovations that the Uganda sector. We believe tourism is everyone’s
Q: Uganda has participated in a number of Tourism Board (UTB) has undertaken business and the more we all get involved in
cultural events, in Berlin, Denmark, France between September 2016 and now. bringing up new ideas and running with them,
and China, what mileage do these events A: Uganda Tourism Board is currently carrying the better we are as a country.
give the country? out inspection and classification of commercial
A: Participation in different events worldwide accommodation facilities. This exercise is very Events have now become big businesses the
is one of the several strategies we employ to important because once a facility gets its star world over because of their capacity to move
market and promote Uganda. These events rating, it is easier for clients to know what to people from one area to another. For example,
give the locals in those places chance to have expect and how much to pay for it. our research shows that there are always large
a firsthand experience with Ugandans, get to numbers of people visiting Kampala every
Q: As we celebrate the World Tourism Day, weekend for entertainment.
what issues should the tourism sector be
thinking and infrastructure development are These come from the other East African
UTB concerning themselves with? countries, and this has earned Kampala the
A: UTB is in the process of updating it’s unofficial name of entertainment capital of
marketing strategy which informs the public all East Africa.
our promotional and marketing activities. Key
to our work is the partnership with the private As the national marketing agencies, we shall
sector in running and supporting meetings, continue promoting and publicizing all events
events, and conferences. UTB realises that it because of the positive impact on both the
cannot be everywhere, but by working with economic and social scene.
others, together we can achieve much. We
have successfully completed several campaigns Mr. Stephen Asiimwe, Executive Director UTB.
through that and we shall continue to do so.
Issues of wildlife are being ably handled by “Events have now
the Uganda Wildlife Authority and as recently become big businesses
seen, our national parks have been recognised the world over because
as some of the best places to visit this year.
of their capacity to
Among the parks are Queen Elizabeth National move people from one
Park and Kidepo Valley National Park. UTB will
continue promoting visiting to all our national area to another.”
parks and other tourist attractions for the
benefit of the people of Uganda.

35

Rolex festival

The Rolex festival is one of the most popular events currently in
Kampala. It is held annually and the second edition was in August
2017. The festival is to celebrate Rolex which is a combination of
chapatti and eggs plus some vegetables as it is the most sought
out road side delicacy. Enid Mirembe, one of the organizers of
this festival and the brains behind it says the main objective of
this event is to promote this meal as a tourism product because
food is a global identifier, for example, the Japanese have sushi,
Indian biryani, among others. “The Rolex is a unique food in
Uganda, I decided to promote a culinary tourism and it has
indeed turned out to be a tourism attraction,” Mirembe says.
The event is a good way to share Uganda’s most loved food
with other nationalities all over the world. Last year, a Ugandan
entrepreneur, Mr. Sylvester Bbaale won an award in the food
truck festival in Denmark for his Rolex vending business. In
addition to that, Rolex was recently ranked number one fast
growing food in Uganda by CNN so that is how badly this festival
is anticipated in Uganda.

Kampala City Festival

The Kampala City Festival is Kampala’s annual celebration of
culture, unity and social life. This event takes place right in the
middle of the capital city, all roads are closed around town
during this festival. Besides being a funfair, street party kind of
event, the Kampala city festival also connects a lot of people
while acting as an economic engine for businesses to flourish.
Anyone interested in selling their products are free to secure
a stall by registering at the KCCA offices. It is not all business
ofcourse, different artists and performers from different parts
of the world come through to entertain revellers present. This
year will be the 6th edition of this event and Tanzania’s biggest
musician, Diamond Platinum will be one of the performers. For
those who have never had their faces painted, those who want
to experience the thrill of seating in the middle of Kampala’s
busy roads without worrying of cars knocking you, this is the
right event for you.

36

Bayimba festival

Bayimba international festival is a major multi arts festival with
exciting and creative ideas and it is held annually in Kampala. It
is graced by artists and visitors from all over the world who can’t
wait to take advantage of the exciting artistic experience while
locals barely keep calm as it approaches. This is without a doubt
the most anticipated for Festival in Uganda due to the fact that it
offers exciting artistic experiences to all audiences and presents
Uganda’s finest artists and upcoming talents from across the
country. The city comes to life, it becomes colorful and vibrant
when an unparalleled feast of music, dance, theatre, film, and
visual arts from renowned and upcoming artists are brought
to Kampala during this event. The Festival has truly become a
highlight on Uganda’s social and cultural calendar. It is gradually
developing into an important (East) African destination Festival,
ensuring regional and international visitation and enhancing
both national and international cultural tourism

Nyege Nyege festival

The Nyege Nyege festival is a gathering most unique, it is not just
any festival, it is ranked as one of the top 10 September festivals.

It is an annual event and it’s first edition was in 2015 in Jinja,
located by Lake Victoria at the source of the Nile.

During this festival, about 300 musicians participate in a 72hour
music and arts explosion. Nyege Nyege is doing wonderful things
for electronic music in Uganda.

This year, loads of African artists like Cameroonian singer Reniss,
Ghanaian DJ/producer Gafacci and South African gqom artists
Cruel Boyz will join international DJs and live acts.

37

Kampala ice cream & cake festival

Kampala ice cream and cake festival aims at bringing together local
ice cream and cake producers and sellers into one place.

It is a street food style event that takes place annually at the
Uganda Museum and this year will be it’s second edition. Some
of the activities that take place there include ice cream sampling,
frozen treats among others. It is favourable for parents who yearn
for an opportunity to give their kids a day out. Whatever type of
ice cream and cakes you swore to eat before you die are put in just
one place- this event. Everything is offered from muffins, forest
cakes, ice cream bowls etc.

Like all other festivals, entertainment is also a priority at the ice
cream and cake festival with live performances from different
famous artists.

Muchomo festival

The Muchomo festival is the kind of event that brings together
people from all walks of life to enjoy food and have a fun life. It is
a social fundraising event that offers a unique experience. It aims
to bring together meat and food lovers from all walks for a social
cause.

The Muchomo festival is an annual event that takes place at the
Uganda Museum and recently the 3rd edition was held. This is
basically Uganda’s largest outdoor barbecue where hot off the grill
mouth watering BBQ food is found. There is a variety eats ranging
from barbecue chops, burgers, spare ribs, sausages among others
with both red and white meat.

Other activities that take place are live artists performances and
DJ mixing at the festival. Parents are also catered for with the
presence of a kid zone that has plenty of kid friendly activities.

38

Opinion

Hotel

Story Welcome to the centre of unique, uncompromising hospitality,
luxury and tranquility perfectly blended with the incredible
This is the epitome of beauty in Soroti Town. We have the warmth of the people of Soroti.
pleasure to introduce you to our boutique hotel located on the Located 1.7km from Happy Supermarket in Soroti, Akello Hotel
outskirts of Soroti Town. Our clients not only enjoy solicitous Annex features a restaurant, bar and free WiFi. Guests can
and thoughtful service at our location but also comfortable enjoy the on-site restaurant. Free private parking is available
hotel facilities with modern amenities. on site.
Our staff is well experienced to fulfill your every need to meet
your expectations.

You cannot fail to miss our delicious dishes including Indian food Car hire is available at this hotel and the area is popular for
prepared by experienced chefs, our world-class gym, massage, golfing. Om Supermarket is 1.7 km from Akello Hotel Annex,
steam bath and sauna, beautiful garden and swimming pool. while Teso Supermarket is 1.9 km from the property.
Ample parking is available for all our clients.

We speak your language!... Our facilities
include;

Luxurious Rooms, Gym,
Massage, Steam &

Sauna, Swimming Pool,
Mini Bar & VIP Lounge

Akello Hotel Annex, Plot 2, Bugondo Crescent Hotel
24 P.O. Box 509, Soroti Uganda | Tel: +256 392 662 669, +256 785 675 733, +256 773 040 012

Email: [email protected]

... a place of Tranquility and Retreat with an outdoor experience

Service with a smile is the established hallmark at the Hursey Resort. Our team will make you feel like an honored
guest, and consider it their privilege to welcome you with the exceptional and traditional Teso hospitality.

Horizons Restaurant Executive Rooms & Suites Executive Rooms & Suites

Conference hall Well-maintained natural African gardens Well stocked bar

4.5KM on the Soroti/Moroto Highway Website: hursey.co.ug25
Telephone: +256 392001682 | Manager +256 776260351

Email: [email protected] | [email protected]

• 32" cable flat screen TV
• Pickup and transfer services
• Coffee and tea making facility - at the coffee
bar
• Individually controlled air conditioner
• Bathroom amenity
• Local Tours & Sightseeing Activities can be
arranged
• Phone: +256 485 421615
• Mobile: +256 790 916739

Fax: +256 485 420575
Email: [email protected]
Front Desk Mbarara
Email: [email protected]
Rukungiri Inn
P. O. Box 72, Tel: 0486442355, 0772830462
Email: [email protected]
Kampala Head Office-Inquiries
P. O Box 2780, Tel: 0414 348900
Email: [email protected] ,
[email protected]
General Manager: [email protected]
Director of Operations:
[email protected] , Managing
Director: [email protected]
If you have any queries or questions, please do not
hesitate to contact us, You can also use the contact
form on the right of this pa

Agip Motel, with its excellent location, diverse facilities,
quality service and professionalism is the number one stop
for anyone going through or stopping in Mbarara. Its
friendly and fast service provided by a highly trained staff
and its well kept and pleasant rooms make Agip Motel the
preferred place for international travellers, holiday makers,
local business men, women and families. Agip Motel will
leave an imprint in your memory as wonderful place.

Guests can enjoy the cool morning or evening breeze as
they watch the birds in our small bamboo forest. You can
sit, relax and enjoy the spectacular surroundings as you
listen to nature's bird songs. For the more adventurous bird
watching groups, this stopover is ideal for viewing the
Ugandan species. A guest's satisfaction is our priority.

Agip Motel is a favourite hotel for tourists visiting the west-
ern national parks due to its location, services and accom-
modation. It has beautiful mature gardens suitable for
camping, cocktail parties, banquets, live bands, gospel,
weddings, crusades, or other large outdoor events. Agip
Motel also offers conference facilities for up to 100- 50
people.
• Secure Car Parking
• Internet/wireless available on site
• Mobile phone reception
• Restaurant
• Arrival/departure point transfers
• Laundry/ironing service available daily
• 24-hour security guard
• 24 room services
• Travel information
• Bus, car rent, air ticket arrangement

TthoeurRiswmenpzootreinrteiaglioinn

By Shanice Achom

The Western part of U anda is a beautiful wonderland ifted with olden rasslands, reen tea plantations,
and hills with terrace ardens, thick tropical rainforests and Mount Rwenzori. There are ame parks, ame
reserves and forest reserves in this re ion, which you can visit in only a 4 half hours’ drive from Kampala. Four
wheel vehicles are required for some of the roads in the rainy season.

Topography habitats including thick bush, forest, swamps NGOs, hotels, tour operators, guides services,
and crater lakes while higher elevations have information centres are anchored.
The region’s uniqueness cannot montane forests and moorland.
be over-emphasised from the This is where one can link with sites like the
exceptional diversity of contrasting Decreasing temperatures with increasing over 50 crater lakes, several rivers, fresh wa-
physical features which range from low- altitude have resulted in a remarkable zoning ter lakes, Kibale Forest National Park, Queen
lying swamps, to flat lowlands through of vegetation. The most striking plants can be Elizabeth, Semliki, Mount Rwenzori National
undulating tea-covered hills to steep found above 3,000 m, where areas of giant parks etc.
mountains, spiced with the spectacular tree heathers support unique aerial epiphytic
flora and fauna. gardens. The alpine zone includes the giant Fort Portal town is the main tourism anchor
lobelias and groundsels, hallmarks of the zone where one can be linked to crater lakes,
The annual temperatures normally range be- Rwenzori. waterfalls, the Amabere caves, the hot springs
tween 25ºC and 28.0ºC especially in Kabarole. among others.
During the summer season, it does get hot in Rwenzori region tourism circuits
the lower areas especially Kasese, Bundibugyo Activities in the conservation zones of Rwen-
and Ntoroko districts although in parts of Ka- The different attractions, accommodations zori include tracking, nature walks, and scenic
barole district, the temperatures do occasion- and transport systems link together. viewing. Trails, shelters for resting and protec-
ally fall well below 20 degrees Celsius. tion from adverse weather conditions have
been set up especially in Kibale and Mount
The vegetation in the region varies according Fort Portal and Kasese municipalities take the Rwenzori national parks.
to altitude. Lower elevations have varied lead in this circuit as several tourism sites,

42

Chimps groom from each other at Kibale Forest National Park. Katosa rocks in Kyenjojo district is a tourist site
and a shrine for Catholics who flock the site
every February to remember some Uganda
martyrs.

that include 70 mammals and 217 birds, in-
cluding 19 species that are endemics to the
Albertine Rift, as well as some of the world’s
rarest plants.

Bird watching guides at Kibale Forest National Plains of tea plantations paint a beautiful scenery The Rwenzoris are a world class hiking and
Park orient tourists before embarking on a field as one drives from Kampala to Fort Portal town. mountaineering destination that offers 6-12
tour. day treks around and up to the highest peaks.
Neighboring communities also offer nature
walks, cultural performances and accommo-
dation.

The Semliki National Park circuit connects with There is the Rwenzori Mountains Visitor In-
Bundibugyo District, which is about 1 and half formation Centre which provides interpretive
hours’ drive from Fort Portal to the Semliki information about the mountain as well as
National Park Headquarters from where one restaurant and other services. Geolodges
can visit the Bambuti Village and go on a guid- in 2012 opened Equator Snow lodge that is
ed forest tour by the Bambuti to Sempaya Hot linked to the Visitor Centre, to service visitors
springs, Semliki River and Ituri Forest. to the park and complement the existing com-
munity camps in the region.
The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary and Magombe Tourists with guides ready to start climbing the
Swamp can also be linked through Fort Portal Rwenzori at the park main gate. UWA and USAID-STAR with support from US
to Kamwenge District east of Kibale Forest Forest Service built a new trail in 2012 on the
National Park. Its snow peaks include the third highest point mountain that allows visitors to experience the
in Africa, while the lower slopes are blanketed destination in shorter 1-3 day walks.
A guided walk into the swamp to see red Colo- in high altitude moorland, bamboo and rich,
bus, black and white Colobus, red tailed mon- moist montane forest. The new trail – Mahoma Nature Trail is a 28
key, great blue turaco, butterflies, and primate km long loop starting and ending at the Nya-
walk to the swamp. The 996 km2 Rwenzori Mountains National kalengijo Gate of the national park.
Park is recognized as a UNESCO World Heri-
The Rwenzori Mountains, the fabled ‘Moun- tage site and an international Ramsar wetland The trail traverses the lower slopes of the
tains of the Moon’ described by the Alexan- site. mountains culminating at Lake Mahoma
drine Geographer Ptolemy 2,162 years ago, lie where the trail joins the existing ‘Central Cir-
in western Uganda along the Uganda-Congo The park hosts a variety of species of wildlife cuit’ trail to return to the park gate.
border.

43

HBishaopJnanminegston
memorial site

TtByFredSiminyu The cave where it is said Bishop James Hannin ton
he unbearably dusty potholed road met his demise, is now a tourist spot and also a
seemed endless as the wretched old favourite for the curiosity of natives.
motorcycle that carried me threateningly
rattled and scoffed unceasingly. The dusty road toring missionary. The young man I found at the The cave where the Bishop used to spend his
that branches off the Iganga- Jinja Highway, and church who offered to be my guide during the nights and the one where he used to stay during
penetrates the depth of Mayuge in Busoga is one remaining part of the journey pointed at a flat the day plus his preaching stone, stand to date
of the hard-to-reach parts where on October 29, rock we were standing on and said it was on that intact on the forested hill of Kyando overlooking
1885, a missionary bishop, Hannington and his very rock that Bishop Hannington was pierced the valley where he was killed.
team met their death. with spears and swords.
Although a greater majority of historians affirm
You need a motorbike to reach this bushy area “You are standing at the spot where the inno- that the murder of Bishop Hannington at King
where the blood of the first white missionary cent blood was shed trying to pave the way Luuba’s Palace in Busoga was as deliberate as
was shed in Uganda. But then, due to the bad for Christianity into Uganda,” my guide, John KabakaMwanga of Buganda required it, some
terrain, I was forced to send off the rider, and Waiswa said. locals argue that it was an accident due to the
embark on the rest of the journey on foot.
Looking at the rock on which The cave where the Bishop
While trekking the bushy meandering path to he was slain, I could not help Hannington used to spend his nights
the site, I kept imagining the enthusiastic doctor wondering what compelled and the one where he used to stay
walking the same path many years ago. I felt a Hannington to leave his com- during the day plus his preaching
cold sting moving down my spine. fortable home in England and stone, stand to date intact on the
come to die in Mayuge District. forested hill of Kyando overlooking
The rock of death the valley where he was killed.
But what is of more impact is
Finally, I got at the alleged murder site. Apart the misfortune that befell this
from the recently constructed church building place that though it is the cra-
and a small clinic above the valley from where dle of Christianity in Uganda,
the bishop was said to have been murdered, it is one of the most remote
there is nothing to show for significance of the places in Uganda.
site of a man from Britain who came to Africa
and died planting the seed of Christianity. Conflicting accounts misinterpretation of the Kiganda dialect into Lu-
soga, a mishap in spellings in the course of com-
The bushy and uninhabited valley appears Recorded history has it that James Hanning- munication between Mwanga and King Luba.
gloomy and menacingly dreadful as if hiding the ton, born at Hurstpierpoint, Sussex 1, 1847
secret of death that claimed the life of the doc- was in October 1884 dispatched from England Those who claim it was an accident narrate that
by the Anglican Church to head the Eastern after Hannington had been arrested in Busoga,
Equatorial African Headquarters in Buganda word was sent to KabakaMwanga who respond-
but met his death in Mayuge before reaching ed in Luganda that bamuteagende (they should
Buganda. set him free and he goes), but this was unfortu-
nately misinterpreted for bamutteagende which

44

Bishop James Hannington Memorial Site in Kyando, Reception Accomodation Dining & Restaurant
Mayuge District. The site is believed to be the point
at which Bishop Hannington died on October 29th, Sauna Steam Bath Conference Hall
1885, while spreading Christianity, which the local
leaders had outlawed at that time. TRAVEL HOTELWelcome to: We offer a variety of Local and
Your home away from home. continental cuisines. We have
means “kill him”. Chief Luuba thereafter ordered self-contained accomodation
for the killing. connected to DSTV, a fully

The great grandson of Chief Luuba, Grace Tilu- stocked bar, open air restaurant,
tangwa Mbaziira however argues that the killing we provide venue for parties and
of Hannington was on the orders of KabakaM-
wanga and was not an accident because it is large secure parking.
evidenced by the unwillingness that Chief Luuba
expressed after receiving the information that Plot No. 5/7 Lubogo Lane, Jinja. P.O.Box 6557, Kampala
the preacher who was treating Basoga should Tel: +256 434 120837. Fax: +256 434 123 819
be put to death.
Email: [email protected]. Website: wwwE.trxaplovreeAflrhicaotwewlw..cexpolor.euafrgica.com 9
“In an effort to save Hannington’s life, Luuba
subjected him to a test, which his ministers had
resolved that if he passed he would be spared,”
says Tulitangwa.

The Basoga believe that in an effort to save the
Bishop he was put to a test of climbing a slippery
steep rock that still stands in the same pond
of water to date, but he failed. If he had been
successful, they say he would have been sent to
KabakaMwanga to spare his life.

Talitangwa narrates that Hannington’s crime
was to attempt to come to Buganda through
Busoga, a shorter route than that employed
by earlier visitors who took the route from the
south of Lake Victoria. Like history has told us,
Buganda’s kings regarded Busoga as a backdoor
through which those with ill intentions entered
the Kingdom.

45

First impressions of

cities

By O oso Erich

First impressions, they say, last forever. My
first impressions of a city start at the air-
port followed by what the taxi driver says.
Often, you et a ood run-down of the
latest happenin s around town from the
taxi driver, especially if you are enerous to
him (or in a few cases, her). They will often
know what a tourist should see, what to
avoid and how to et around.

An aerial view of the Kampala the suburbs where revelers do not sleep. Nearby is
Kampala Skyline. the Ndere Cultural Centre, where one can enjoy an
Right: A performance The city with a pulse evening of fantastic Ugandan cultural performances.
of Buganda’s traditional
dances. A visitor looking to sample a typical East African Driving down from Entebbe airport, the view of the
experience will find great variety in Kampala. A
bustling city of several million, Kampala enjoys great
weather and is relatively safe. Years ago, Kampala
was a small city perched on seven hills. Today, it has
grown very rapidly and now sits over many hills and
valleys. “It is a city of happy people, we have a pulse
of our own here,” said a taxi driver in suburb – one of

46

city is one of rolling hills. Along the drive, one can Awesome activities: Bungee
see a lot of recent developments that are a hallmark jumping (above) and White
of Uganda’s economic growth. From the City Centre water rafting (left) are some
to Wandegeya, just below the famous Makerere of the activities to engage in
University, to Kabalagala where the music blares while in Jinja.
away through the night, to Kireka and Kawempe,
one notices a city that is busy sprucing itself up in an Uganda’s east including Mt Elgon Game Park and further
attempt to become a world class metropolis. Now north, the unspoilt Kidepo national park. It used to be
flowers adorn the main roads, and efforts are on to Uganda’s industrial city, but years of neglect left most
beautify more parts of the city. industries grounded. Getting to Jinja from the Ugandan
capital, Kampala, takes one along a, 85-km breathtaking
Kampala has lots of history, some beaches, great cuisine, drive past the Mabira Forest. There is an indulgence
non-stop nightlife, cultural experiences, shopping, along the road that one should not miss – the roast sweet
a variety of accommodation; but above all, friendly bananas at Namawojolo.
people. Getting along is fastest on a boda motorcycle.
The main attractions include the Uganda museum, From Jinja, a beautiful drive further east takes one to
historical churches and mosques, the Buganda tombs, Mbale. Nestled on the slopes of Mt Elgon, the city is
newly built shopping malls, the National Theatre, art the biggest in eastern Uganda. It has great weather
galleries, cultural entertainment places and many eating and the sweetest bogoya bananas in East Africa.
places that serve traditional foodstuffs (do not miss the
luwombo, rolex (not the watch but a chapati/egg roll), Every other year, the people of Bugisu hold one of
and the local staple- matooke and dry fish in groundnut the most remarkable cultural events in East Africa
stew). The food is all fresh and grown naturally in villages – the imbalu or circumcision of young boys. This
away from the city. unique culture makes Mbale the city of men – and
the perfect destination for a tourist who wants to
Kampala can be reached via Entebbe airport, 40km understand African culture and its values.
away. Entebbe itself is a quiet, laid back settlement
dominated by Uganda’s only international airport.
From here, one can catch a flight to the west or north
of the country to see wonderful culture (particularly
the many traditional dances that Uganda is famous
for), game or picturesque scenery. It is an old colonial
settlement and hosts a wildlife centre that is worth.
Compared to Kampala, Entebbe is quiet. Both are on
the shores of Lake Victoria.

Jinja

Gifted by nature

To the east of Kampala is Jinja; a city with a tourism
potential that has not been fully developed. The
Owen Falls Dam, Source of the Nile, water rafting and
the food are worth your money, but the city needs
more investment in developing its potential. Jinja has
some decent hotels and a Golf Club and is located
by the famous source of the River Nile. There are
also several fairly decent low-end accommodation
facilities.

Jinja is the gateway to other tourist attractions further to

47

Land of milk and honey: Mbarara From Mbarara, the beautiful drive heads down to Kabale,
The ‘Aha Mahembe G’ente’ not too far from the Rwandan border. I must admit, I have
Roundabout in Mbarara. The home of comely people a nostalgic feel about Kabale – perhaps it is the White
Horse Inn, perhaps the cold that sweeps down the town
Some 260 km west of Kampala, lies Mbarara, where a at night, or perhaps because it is the hometown of my
joke is told that milk flows on the village paths. The city good friend, the prime minister. One day, driving up to
has grown very fast and today boasts some of the best Lake Bunyonyi, we passed a young man selling potatoes.
tourist facilities in out-of-Kampala Uganda, including “You cannot visit Kabale and not taste our potatoes,” he
Igongo Cultural Centre and Country Hotel which I would said. We bought some, and lo!, he was right.
recommend to just any visitor. The drive from Kampala
to Mbarara is a great ride, past towns like Masaka, which Among the western towns and cities that I have visited,
until recently lay in ruins because of war. In the last few Mbarara and Kabale compare to Fort Portal in beauty.
years, these towns have picked up the pieces and now Lying about 180 kms northwest of Mbarara, Fort Portal is
stand tall. Do not miss the roadside snacks, as you drive. the home town of Uganda’s boy King – the youngest ever
Monarch in the world. Fort Portal is the cleanest city in
Magical Kenya: A young “Mbarara has a life of its own, it is a city you visit and never Uganda today. At Mountains of the Moon Hotel, a friend
woman of the Turkana want to leave,” said a friend who was visiting from Kigali joked: “The residents because to brighten up the city
tribe Kenya (below). Left is in Rwanda. There is so much to see and do, including the because a few years ago, it had become Fort Port Hole’.
Kenya’s Capital City, Nairobi. many nearby game parks, and a tourist should prepare to Clearly, they did a good job. The sites around the city are
spend good time in this city. And of course, it is the home worth a try. Do not miss the drive past rolling hillsides to
of comely ladies. Ntandi. Near Fort Portal are game parks, hot springs and
historical caves, among other attractions. Wherever you
turn, “Empako yawe”, somebody will say in greeting.

Nairobi

East Africa’s bi est city

There are several flights every day from Entebbe to
the Kenyan capital, Nairobi – a short one hour away.
The flights are pricey, but it is the fastest way to hop
between Kampala and Nairobi. The other option is by
road. Several buses leave Kampala every day on a 12-
hour drive to Nairobi.

48