Yellow fever vaccination requirements for Uganda and Rwanda

Yellow Fever Certificate for Travelers to Uganda

Find out the Yellow fever vaccination requirements for uganda and Rwanda. Yellow Fever Certificate for Travelers to Uganda and Rwanda.

Uganda is one of the African countries where a yellow fever vaccination certificate is a major requirement from travelers in order to allow them to enter and stay in the country. Regardless of how long you are going to stay in the country, you must have a certificate or card that shows that you are vaccinated against yellow fever when you arrive at the airport or any border to Uganda. However, there are some categories of people that are exempted from this requirement for one reason or the other and they should have medical letters. From the time there was an outbreak of yellow fever in Angola, most African countries have made it one of the major requirements travelers must present along with other requirements like passport when they are being checked in into the country.

If a traveler has reached at the entry point without the certificate or medical form, they are vaccinated at a costly price and then allowed to enter the country but this you remain prone to the virus for a period of ten days and this is the reason why it is advisable to get the vaccine prior to your travel.

Yellow fever outbreak in Uganda

Yellow fever is a virus commonly found in tropics and subtropics of Africa and is spread by infected mosquitoes from one person to another. The symptoms and signs of the disease include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice and fatigue. People that have infected by the virus and show serious symptoms die in a period of about 10 days.

On 24 January, it was confirmed that there was an outbreak of yellow fever in the northern part of Uganda. The Minister of Health in Uganda, Dr. Jane Aceng confirmed that three people lost their lives to yellow fever in the northwestern districts of Moyo and Buliisa. Two of them were traders dealing in timber and are said to have got the virus from South Sudan and died in Uganda in Moyo hospital. The third was also a male trader dealing in milk and was based in the DRC.

Uganda’s WHO Representative Dr. Yonas Woldermariam said that the most effective way to protect against the disease is by acquiring the yellow fever vaccine. He further said that the disease has no cure but this vaccine protects against it a 100%.

Trained medical workers from the Ministry of Health have been vaccinating the locals around the country and this will continue on different organized schedules.

Transmission of yellow fever

There are three cycles of yellow fever transmission;

  • Jungle (sylvatic)
  • Intermediate (savannah)
  • Urban

Transmission of the jungle cycle happens between non-humans that is from animals especially primates to mosquitoes in the forest canopy. Mosquitoes will then transmit it to the people living around the jungles, it could be those working there or even those just visiting the jungle.

The Intermediate cycle happens when the virus is from mosquitoes to humans or from monkeys to humans or from humans to humans through mosquitoes.

The urban cycle of transmission involves a species of mosquito known as Aedes Aegypti. The mosquitoes transmit it from infected humans who transferred from the jungle or savannah to the urban areas.

When tourists come to Uganda for safaris, they are advised not to reach any areas that are affected with yellow fever. Uganda is also one of the countries that are fast and best at fighting such diseases like yellow fever, Marbug, ebola, malaria among others.

Yellow fever immunization requirement to Uganda

Since Uganda is among countries in the yellow fever zone, the yellow fever vaccination certificate from WHO is a requirement that if you do not have, you’ll not be allowed to enter the country. If you do not have the card or certificate, you’ll receive the vaccination at the airport on arrival and then proceed with the journey. The vaccine at this point costs roughly US$40 and a card indicating that you are vaccinated will be issued. It is however highly urged that you get the vaccination early enough before your safari starts, at least 10 days before travel.

Exemption of yellow fever vaccination

There are specific categories of people that are exempted from getting the vaccines of yellow fever. These include; babies below the one year, pregnant women and people with HIV/AIDS with a CD4 count that is below 200. People above the age of 60 years are also allowed to travel without the cards. Those that get health issues when vaccinated for example those that are allergic to egg proteins may get skin rashes and they are therefore advised to acquire medical letters that allow them to travel without yellow fever vaccination certificates.

Yellow Fever Immunization Requirement when traveling to Rwanda

Even though Rwanda is located near Uganda, her requirements in the case of yellow fever immunization are not the same. Travelers coming from countries that are not endemic to yellow fever are allowed to enter without vaccination cards and those from and passing via yellow fever endemic countries such as Uganda, Kenya and those from South America must have the vaccination certificates.

Countries that are endemic to Yellow fever

These are areas with risk of yellow fever and vaccination against the disease is recommended to people who live there and to those who want to travel to those countries. These countries include; Angola, Argentina, Benin, Bolvia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, CAR, Chad, DRC, Ecuador, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Sudan, Suriname, Togo, Uganda And Venezuela.

Importance of the yellow fever vaccine in preventing yellow fever

Yellow fever is an acute viral hemorrhagic disease that is spread by infected mosquitoes as earlier said. When you are vaccinated against yellow fever, your body produces antibiotics against the virus. The vaccine is safe and highly effective. It gives the body immunity against the virus in 10 days and it protects for 10 years or for life.

Other precautions to take to prevent mosquito bites

  • Using insect repellent on the body and clothes. One of the good products of insect repellent is RID and others.
  • Wear long clothes; long sleeved shirts and long trousers
  • Take low sugar amounts for high sugars attract mosquitoes
  • Wear clothes with dull colors
  • Always sleep under mosquito nets
  • Use insect killers like doom in the houses and rooms

In conclusion, as you prepare to travel for safari, find out the requirements you need to travel to different countries and if the yellow fever vaccination certificate is one of them, please have your vaccination early and carry the card for proof.

Uganda is one of the African countries where a yellow fever vaccination certificate is a major requirement from travelers in order to allow them to enter and stay in the country. Regardless of how long you are going to stay in the country, you must have a certificate or card that shows that you are vaccinated against yellow fever when you arrive at the airport or any border to Uganda. However, there are some categories of people that are exempted from this requirement for one reason or the other and they should have medical letters. From the time there was an outbreak of yellow fever in Angola, most African countries have made it one of the major requirements travelers must present along with other requirements like passport when they are being checked in into the country.

If a traveler has reached at the entry point without the certificate or medical form, they are vaccinated at a costly price and then allowed to enter the country but this you remain prone to the virus for a period of ten days and this is the reason why it is advisable to get the vaccine prior to your travel.

Find out the Yellow fever vaccination requirements for uganda and Rwanda. Yellow Fever Certificate for Travelers to Uganda and Rwanda.

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Ssese Islands

Ssese Islands Lake Victoria Uganda

The Ssese islands are a magical secretive part of Uganda to go to if you need to relax after your game drives, hikes and primate treks in the forests. They are 84 beautiful tropical islands in the northwestern shore of Lake Victoria, the second biggest lake on in Africa which is also shared among Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Ssese islands have lovely white sand-beaches where you’ll chill as you watch the sunset. The islands are the best places for boating, fishing for Nile perch, horseback riding, hiking, motor boat riding, and birding.

These islands can be accessed by taking a boat, a ferry or flying there and there are lodges that provide luxury and mid-range accommodation facilities. You’ll enjoy your stay at these comfortable lodges which most times have night fires.

The Ssese islands are listed among the top ten world’s best secret islands by lonely planet because of their stunning sandy beaches, birds, exotic plants, beautiful flowers, the tropical forest and the hospitable people and their culture at the island. There are many palm trees which make the place look a totally different part from the rest of Uganda.

The tropical forest at the island is a habitat for monkeys and many other primates as well as mammals like sitatunga antelopes and lots of birds. The forest is a perfect place for birding.

This place has a variety of sweet fresh fruits of Uganda such as watermelons, pineapples, mangoes, bananas, jackfruits and these are rated the tastiest fruits in the world.

The weather of Ssese islands is so friendly and great for holidays all year round. The views of the sunrise and the sunset are so pretty and the nights are beautifully lit by the moon.

There are some few communities on the islands and if you visit them, you’ll have a chance to interact with them and learn more about them than what you had earlier heard about them.

From the main land of the country, there are several places to start your journey to the islands. Some are easier to access compared to others. One of the easiest islands to access is Bugala where one of the lodges to stay is Pineapple Bay Resort.

Pearls in the pearl of Africa

Uganda was termed as the pearl of Africa by Churchill Winston because of its extraordinary beauty and here we find another outstanding pearl of Uganda. Bugala Island is the place to be. It is the largest and receives the highest number of visitors compared to other islands. It has most of its lodges close to the lake and relaxing there offers an opportunity to enjoy viewing the cutest sunset and views of a vast landscape.

The ssese islands do not have lodges rated with stars but those available are really serene and luxurious in a unique way. The experience at the islands is totally different from elsewhere on the mainland, you’ll not meet crowds of people, unnecessary noise and more.

There are exciting activities at the island including hiking, forest walk, and visiting communities.

The Ssese islands are one of the most amazing places in Uganda for relaxation before returning home.

Visit Ssese Islands and enjoy the pearl of Africa during your Uganda Safari.

Ssesse Islands in Uganda

Uganda has a range of beautiful places in the most hidden areas and this archipelago of 84 islands in the northwestern part of her largest lake, Lake Victoria comes among what makes it the Pearl of Africa. Uganda is lucky to have taken the portion of the Ssese islands among the three countries that share Lake Victoria; Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.

Ssese islands got their name from the Tsetse flies because of it has a lot of them some years back. So when somebody commented about them, the local people started calling the place Ssese. The presence of tsetse flies has been one of the reasons why it was not visited by many.

The Ssese islands are divided into two sections; the Koome group of the islands in the northeastern part and the Bugala group in the southwestern part. Koome group comprises of Koome Island, Damba Island and Luwaji Island while Bugala group has Bufumira Island, Serinya Island, Funye Island, Bugaba Island, Bubeke Island and Buyova Island. The two groups of islands are separated by a channel known as Koome channel.

Even if Uganda is a landlocked country, it has these islands that with amazing beaches that you would think you are next to the ocean. The beaches are characterized with fine sand, palm trees, lovely flowers, trees and plants and spectacular views of the surrounding. The Ssesse Islands are found in Kalangala district. This place was previously known for fishing but is now a popular destination for relaxation, holidays and exploration tours. The population of people on the Ssese Islands is about 65,000. Kalangala was one of the poorest districts in Uganda and also with a high rate of HIV but it is now developing and measures have been taken by the government to reduce the rate of spread of HIV there.

A lot has been known to be done in Uganda including gorilla trekking, wildlife viewing, chimpanzee trekking, mountain climbing and white water rafting among others. Uganda is also has a number of serene and lovely areas for honeymoon, relaxation and chilling and the Ssese islands are one of the top destinations. When booking for your Uganda safari, you can inform us to include a visit to the Ssese islands to have an opportunity to do the following;

Walk in the tropical forest

There is a tropical forest on the island with a variety of animals such as monkeys, sitatungas and lots of birds. You are guided by an experienced guide who will tell a lot about the forest, the island and describe all the birds that you will enjoy the walk in the forest on an island.

Boat ride and spot fishing

You can enjoy a boat ride with an expert on the water, enjoy the experience of a motor boat ride or even paddle on the lake. You can also do the fishing of the Nile perch or tilapia. These are the common fish species in Lake Victoria.

Visit the Island club

The Island club is a serene place for relaxation after a long day of the rest of activities like nature walks, bird watching and boat cruise. It has beautiful gardens for a cool relaxation and you can watch the sunset as you sip one of your favorite drinks.

Visit Kihumuro cave

Kihumuro cave is about thirty to forty meters long. It is situated in Kalaya village on Bugala Island. The cave has an interesting cultural and spiritual history which is well explained by the guides there. Some locals visit Kihumuro cave to seek blessings from the god. To some people, the cave is a traditional church. It has an entrance and an exit. When getting inside, you remove your shoes and get on the floor that is covered with grass. The cave consists of several items which you will be able to see such as calabashes, spears and others. There are a lot of stories to listen to when you visit the cave.

Accommodations at Ssese Islands

When you plan to visit Ssese Islands, do not worry about where to stay because there are a number accommodations which are pocket friendly. However, there is no large luxury or 5 star hotel but those that are there are good enough to offer the best for travelers. The best accommodations include; Panaroma cottages, Kalangala Pearl beach resort, Victoria Forest resort, Ssese Habitat lodge and Philo Leisure gardens.

Getting to Ssese Islands

Different ferries from different points of Uganda travel to the islands at scheduled periods. You can use MV Kalangala from Kampala, there is another ferry that departs from Entebbe and the other from Masaka.

Visiting Ssese Islands is one of the best ways to end your Uganda safari. You relax and get rejuvenated after the adventures in the parks, just before travelling back home.

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Baha’i Temple Uganda

Baha’i Temple in Uganda | Bahai Temple in Africa

Vist the Kampala Baha’i Temple, Baha’i temple Uganda, the only Baha’i Temple in Africa. This is one of the interesting places to visit while on a Kampala City tour / Uganda Safari. 

Bahai temple in KampalaThe Baha’i temple is also referred to as Marshriqui I-Adhkar which means the ‘drawing place of the praise God’. The Baha’i temple Uganda is only one built in Africa that is why it’s historically referred to it as the “Mother Temple of Africa” and it’s among the nine Baha’i temples in the world. It was constructed in 1958 and 1961 on along Gayaza road on Kakaayi hill which is about three miles away from Kampala capital city. It is one of the historic and cultural Archectural master pieces building which was built about 50years ago in honor of the Baha’i faith in Africa. It is situated on 52 acres of land; it stands on an elevation of about 130 feet and has a diameter of about 44 feet.

 The Baha’i building is a unique Archectural structure which is home to a lot of unique wonders that a lot of travelers would love to explore while on their safari to pearl of Africa. The temple was constructed because of the Baha’i faith which was believed to bring oneness of humanity, oneness in God as well as oneness of religion. Baha’i believed in the need to bring many people to unity, it believed in unifying the vision of what nature peaks to about humanity as well as transforming the future generation.

The Baha’i people worship via meditation and prayer, they do a lot of devotional gatherings as well as performing an active duties and services with in the communities. They have three mandatory prayers which they recite every day as they were given by Baha’u’llah, they use Baha’i scriptures to have guidance on the importance of prayer and use various prayers for various purposes and cause.  Therefore, whatever service they offer, they do it according to the Baha’i teaching which is another way of worship God and unifying humanity.

If travelers are interested in having prayers at Baha’i temple, it is important to note that there is no cost of prayer when you choose to tour the Baha’i temple in Kampala, however your will not be allowed to take photos with in the temple, photos are only allowed to take photos from outside the temple. Don’t forget that the sight of Baha’i temple in Uganda is extremely exciting and enticing thus it’s worthy a visit on a Ugandan safari. Besides the Baha’i temple in Uganda, there are other Baha’i temples in the world to make the number of nine such as the Baha’i house of worship in Samoa, the Baha’i house of worship in north America, the Baha’i house of worship in India, the Baha’i house of worship in Australia, the Baha’i house of worship in Panama, the Baha’i house of worship in Germany among many others.

The great insight that we offer when you visit the Bahati temple of Uganda in Kampala, is that you get a chance to enjoy bird watching experience with in the place, you will enjoy viewing the beautiful Archectural magical artwork of the temple, and there will be great opportunity to explore other tourist’s attractions with in the city.

The Baha’i temple is on a beautiful park that has amazing trees species, a green carpet ground that has clear and clean routes leading to the dome of the temple. The park’s environment of Baha’i temple is great destination for couples to enjoy an ample time, relaxing, it has offers enough for space for parties and picnics.

How to get to Baha’i temple in Africa.

The Baha’i temple of Africa is situated on in north Kampala about three miles along Gayaza road in central Uganda. The place can be accessed by road transport from Entebbe airport international airport and its about 46.5  kilometers via Entebbe express high way and it takes about an hour or even less to arrive at Baha’i temple.

Bahai Temple Kampala, Bahai Temple in Uganda, Bahai Temple in Africa

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Is Uganda Safe to Travel to

Is Uganda safe? Travel tips for citizens of America, German, Canada, UK and other countries

Is Uganda safe for American tourists and all other tourists?

As people think of including Uganda on the African countries to travel to, they will wonder if it is safe. You do not have to worry about this because this is actually one of the safest countries for tourists in Africa. The country is secure, stable and has the most hospitable and friendly residents. Mostly Americans always want to find out if they will be safe when they are in Uganda.

The hospitality and safety in Uganda doesn’t single out according to nationality. Just like for the residents, the government of Uganda ensures that all tourists are kept safe and secure from any controllable problems. Tourists are safer if they book with tour operators; Adventure in the wild safaris. Safaris are very safe, activities are safe and the surrounding is safe.

How safe is Uganda for Americans and others?

Drop any misconception that the entire Africa is an unsafe place to visit. You’ll be surprised at how safe and secure you’ll be during your visit in Uganda at all destinations, cities and transfer drives from destination to destination. You are urged to follow all the advice and instructions from the tour driver and other attendants at the destinations like national parks, lodge.

Just like any other major cities, common safety and security problem of robbery, scamming and petty theft do occur in Uganda’s major towns like Kampala, Jinja especially in crowded areas. This is however avoided by observing safety and security rules and cautions.

Adventure in the wild safaris is aware of the best and safest lodges, hotels and communities to stay at and visit to avoid ruining your safari with theft, overcharging yet with less quality services and insecurity. The driver guide will give you appropriate advice on which stores, banks, happening places and any other good service providers to use.

Ranging from the general police of the country, Uganda police, Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), traffic police, Tourism Police and the tourism bodies like Uganda Wildlife Authority, Uganda Tourism Board and our tour company, the safety of tourists is taken very seriously. National parks in Uganda have barracks with military army, ranger post with park rangers, and other security personnel at lodges and other sites.

Comparing Uganda and USA

USA has had terrorist attacks and other forms of violence in the recent years. There are many reports of killings and other brutal deeds which are shocking.

“The Pearl of Africa” is not only endowed with dramatic attractions, but also minds so much at the safety and security of those who come to watch them. People are very friendly and kind, but you do not have to trust every one other than your guides and attendants.

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Kitagata Hot springs

Kitagata hot springs in Uganda

Kitaga Hot springs: A place of natural healing, activities at kitagata hot springs

The Kitagata Hot springs is found in a sub-county called Kitagata in Sheema district located in Ankole in the western region of Uganda.  The area got its name from the popular Kitagata hot springs. The word Kitagata is a Runyankole word meaning “warm” and it became famous for this place because of the presence of this very hot water that comes out of the earth’s crust to the surface after being heated up as a result of vulcanicity. The place is known by the residents of the area as “Ekitagata Kyamarembo” and has stories associated with it that are believed to have happened in the past.

Kitagata hot springs is visited daily by crowds of people from different areas of Uganda and beyond Uganda. The water of the hot springs is warm and is believed to heal skin diseases and muscle pains and even complicated diseases inside the body. Because of the healing powers of this water, you will find crowds of people around the area, others half naked relaxing on the stones around the place and others in the warm water. Kitagata hot springs has two zones; the one for women and children and the one for men.

There are two hot springs at Kitagata situated close to each other. One was named Ekyomugabe because it was used by the former Omugabe (king) of Ankole. The one with the healing powers is locally known as “Mulago” named after Mulago hospital which is the main and largest national referral hospital in Uganda. At the hot springs is the part with very hot water which can also make porridge and was used by the locals to mix local porridge called “Obushera” which is made by mixing extremely hot water and millet flour. This part has hot water that is more than 80 degrees Celsius and can boil an egg for eating. The other part has warm water and that’s where people swim. However much people of different skin problems bath in this pool of warm water at Kitagata, there has never be a case of spread of the diseases from one person to the other.

People here enjoy a unique kind of natural sauna and steam bathe which is always available at any time of the day and night. people living close to the hot springs that do not want to congregate here carry jerrycans, fetch water and take it home where they’ll bathe from.

Kitagata hot springs contains various minerals. These include potassium chloride, calcium phosphate, magnesium chloride, lithium sulphate, sodium chloride and calcium sulphate among others. The same kinds of minerals are used in manufacturing medicine and this could be the reason why the water of the hot springs has the ability of healing skin diseases.

Besides the healing power of the water of the hot spring, it also rejuvenates the body and offers a good relaxation for those who have bathed there. There is no fee charged for visiting the Kitagata hot springs and therefore many people go there for different purposes; healing, natural steam bath and for tourism purposes. It is estimated that this place receives about 800 people in one week.

Kitagata Hot springs is one of the most wondrous things that have existed in the region for years and is worth adding on your bucket list for your Uganda safari. The place where the hot springs is located offers spectacular views of the hills, valleys and then beautiful vegetation around the place and at a distance regardless of the hot water there.

Getting there

Kitagata hot springs is located in Kitagata sub-county, Sheema County found in Sheema district, along Ishaka-Kagamba road. It is situated about 2km southeast of Kitagata town. Sheema distrisct is about 300km from Kampala city and it takes about 5.5 hours to reach there by road.

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Kabaka

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Kabaka of Buganda Kingdom

Kabaka Meaning, kabaka’s names,

Kabaka is a title for the king of the Buganda kingdom in Uganda. Uganda has about 6 famous kingdoms and the Buganda kingdom is one of them that have dominated with powerful kings from pre-colonialism periods to date yet preserving their traditions and practices as well as great respect for the Kabaka. The Buganda kingdom is situated in the central region of Uganda. The great Lkae Victoria which is the biggest lake in the country and the biggest fresh water lake in Africa is located in the Buganda kingdom. In the 1840s, the Buganda went with convoys of canoes fighting to establish a majestic supremacy over the lake and areas around it.

According to their traditions, the Buganda kingdom is ruled by two kings; the spiritual king and the material king. Also known as a supernatural king, the spiritual father of Buganda kingdom is represented by the Royal Drums traditionally known to them as “Mujaguzo”. Just like any other king, Mujaguzo also has his own palace, palace guards, officials and servants. When a new prince or princess is born in the kingdom, drummers from a specific clan are selected to sound these Royal Drums. This is how they communicate to the subjects of Buganda that a new member has been welcomed in the royal family.

Before the officials declare the human prince as new Kabaka, he must first perform special cultural rites on these Royal drums. Sounding the Royal drums can also be an official communication that the kingdom has lost the ruling king. However, in Buganda, the Kabaka does not die but gets lost in the forest. The forest where the Kabaka gets lost is found in the royal tombs at Kasubi tombs and Wamala tombs. The Kasubi tombs are found in Kampala and are one of the areas we recommend our visitors who wish to have a cultural experience around Kampala. It has several buildings but the main hut is where the forest is found and had mausoleums of four former kingdoms of Buganda before it was destroyed by fire on March 17,2010. When you visit the tombs, you get a chance to see the entrance to the forest but you won’t be permitted to look beyond it because it is a taboo.

Princes in Buganda kingdom are treated equally if not yet enthroned as new king after the death of the Kabaka. It is however accepted for a special council of the kingdom to analyze the behaviors and qualities of the princes when the reigning king is still alive and present their recommendation to him so that he can select the one who will take over the throne when he dies. This is followed by a secret ceremony where the head of the special council offers a special bark cloth to the prince that was selected. This bark cloth will be laid on the body of the fallen king by this prince when they (all the princes and princesses) are called upon to see the body of their father. The name of this prince, the successor to the throne (king-to-be) remains a secret till this day when he will personally communicate by the act of laying the back cloth on the king who has died.

In Buganda, the firstborn prince is called Kiweewa. He is not considered among the successors of the throne to avoid attempts of assassination but he has roles assigned to him and he will have influence in matters of the royal family and kingdom.

Kabakas (kings of Buganda) that are known to have ruled Buganda kingdom from around the 14th century to date are 36 in number. Some of the popular ones in the history of Uganda are Ssuuna II who is said to have grown a traditional herb called “omulago” leading to the name Mulago that was given to one of the & hills of Kampala and Kabaka Mwanga II who killed the Uganda Martyrs. Currently, the king of Buganda is Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II who has been reigning since 1993.

Kabaka is the title given to the King of the Buganda Kingdom. Find out the Kabaka of Buganda Kingdom, Kabaka Meaning, kabaka’s names, 

Related topics

Kabaka’s Palace

Bulange Mengo

Kabaka’s lake

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Bachwezi

Bachwezi in ankole

Bachwezi Empire of Kitara, Who were the bachwezi

Bachwezi in ankole, decline of the bachwezi, bachwezi clans, bachwezi songs, name the first king of bachwezi, bachwezi music, what were the origins of the bachwezi, the chwezi spirits

It is believed that the Bachwezi are the founders of the ancient Empire of Kitara. The Kitara Empire covered areas of Uganda, the northern parts of Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, the eastern parts of the DRC, Zambia and Malawi. What we know as the Great Lakes region of Africa is also known as the Chwezi Empire or Bachwezi/Chwezi or Empire of the moon. Traditionally, it is said that the region was ruled by the Bachwezi who were the successors of the Batembuzi dynasty. Not much was written about the Bachwezi and their dynasty seems to have been short since only three kings have been documented in this history. The kings of the  Bachwezi in ankole were Ndahura, Mulindwa and Wamara.

 

Name the first king of bachwezi

The name the first king of bachwezi is Ndahura

Bachwezi clans, bachwezi spirits, bachwezi origin, the bachwezi history

According to history, it is said that the Chwezi dynasty reigned at a site in Uganda known as Bigo bya Mugyenyi around 1000AD to 15000ad. Bigo bya Mugyenyi cultural and archeological site is located in the western part of Uganda and is characterized with huge curved rocks around the place and thatched hut with sharp-pointed spears at the entrance. There are still many people who believe in this and visit the place to pray to the gods and speak to the Bachwezi spirits from around the stones and in the hut. Just like to other gods, you have to humble yourself when praying to the gods here. Bigo bya Mugyenyi archeological site consist of Bachwezi caves and the praying place for people who believe in these gods. The praying place has baskets where you can put your monetary offerings that are dedicated to the gods so that visitors remain safe when they are at the site and in the shrines.

The caves at the site are located on a hill where you’ll hike and be guided by the care takers that have been chosen by the gods. The caves are dark and the path through them leads you to the exit and a place inhabited by wild animals such as water bucks, duikers, bush bucks, snakes and other animals. You’ll be told about the mystical stream at this site known as Kabeho where traditional healers take their patients for cleansing.

Just above the stream are several thatched huts with the main one being the biggest and is said to be so many years old. Here is a site where the people come to pray and worship the gods. The hut is decorated with hides and skins, thick bamboo pipes, beads, different shapes of pottery pieces, spears and with mats.

It is believed that the Bachwezi were predominant cattle keepers and there is a large empty kraal behind the hut where they used to keep their cattle. Therefore some worshippers come to this place with milk which is filled in the calabashes in the hut as an offering to the gods. There is a pool of water at this site which has for long been maintained because it is respected as the lavatory facility of the former kings. It is believed that this is where the kings got their power to rule over their subjects. According to Prince Mkungu Frank Nzhuzuure alos says that he is the 37th heir of the Bachwezi dynasty following Wamala’s lineage, the descendants of Wamala possess similar supernatural powers up to date.

When you visit this site, you’ll also see an old thick wall that is said to have been a perimeter wall constructed to enclose the palace of the Chwezi kings. After disappearance of the Bachwezi kings, it is said that the kings of Buganda including Mwanga II occupied this palace on their visit to the site.

It is believed that the Bachwezi are the ones who introduced the long horned cattle of Ankole, iron smelting, coffee growing and the first semblance of organized and centralized government under a king. No one is sure about where the Bachwezi ended up but some believe that they were demi-gods and could have migrated and probably disappeared in Lake Albert while others claim that they disappeared into Lake Wamala which was named after one of the kings. One of the famous scholars wrote that the Bachwezi got assimilated into the indigenous people and could be the Bahima found in Ankole in Uganda and Tutsi in Rwanda and Burundi.

Bachwezi spirits, chwezi dynasty

Due tio the mysteriopus actions of the Bacwezi, they were believed to be demi-gods and were worshipped by various Bachwezi clans. After their reign, they were succeeded by the Babiito Dynasty where we currently have the Bunyoro-Kitara kingdom which also holds strong history regarding dominant kingdoms in Uganda.

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5 Best things to do in Mabira forest

Activities to do in mabira forest

5 Best things to do in Mabira forest – Activities to do in Mabira Forest: From Kampala city the capital city of Uganda, Mabira forest takes about 45 minutes’ drive from Kampala and its he perfect add on to your Uganda safari.

Visiting Mabira forest, is one of the best safari destinations in Uganda, there various things to do and see in Mabira forest, some of the best safari activities in Mabira forest include; Nature walks, Birding, Guided Hikes, mabira forest is one among the tropical rainforests in Uganda and situated in an area of reach from Kampala city.

You can visit mabira forest, while in Uganda, we offer Day- trips here but also can be added as an add to their safaris in Uganda. you can visit Mabira forest on the day of arrival before you transfer to various national parks you will be visiting, or after your safari trip before your departure flight home.

Mabira forest, is situated enroute to Jinja from Kampala and the distance covered driving from Kampala, is equally the same as driving from Jinja. Its one of the perfect places to go for various nature activities in the central tropical rainforest.

Mabira forest is perfect for ideal nature walks or bike rides, the forest is best for birding experience, birders will love their visit in mabira forest you can spend a day or half day viewing the various bird species harboured in the forest.

While being one of the only remaining forests in Ugandan, Mabira forest is host to a broad variety of wildlife and harbors many threatened animals, such as chimpanzees, 200 plants, open areas of savannah grasslands and papyrus swamps, sheltering many birds, waterfalls, rivers that flow gently, Mabira forest is a great location for outdoor sports such as camping ,biking, nature walking, the forest is simpler and easier to see along the Kampala Jinja highway, but the deeper section of the Mabira Forest is where the whole mystical natural world takes place.

 Mabira Forest is the closest and only Rainforest in Central Uganda, the forest is situated only 50 kilometres away from Kampala capital city, the place has drawn a lot of tourists to the forest, school children also come to the area on nature trips, Ugandans have a picnic, an oasis of natural beauty and surprises, a bird sanctuary in the area harbors a lot of bird species that have made it their home ,the forest a suitable location for bird watching experience. The spectacular trees, herbs, flowers, birds, insects, monkeys and small mammals make this a great spot to get away from Kampala and enjoy a few hours a day or a peaceful overnight stay at the Mabira Rain forest Lodge a stunning eco-lodge in the ancient rainforest that was first settled in the Buganda region by the original inhabitants of the forest known as the pygmies, Many Uganda’s, early settlers and even today some are heading to Mabira Rainforest to remember Nakalanga’s spirits.

Mabira Forest is a life-changer as it offers you plenty of things to do when you visit the forest, the game drives in the open savannah will introduce you to a lot of beautiful scenery around the country, the visit to the Mabira Country, will also encourage you to explore the beauty of the pearl of Africa on foot. Mabira Forest is a natural environment where you can relax as you enter the woods, the sound of the swash tree branches when the breeze combines with the tweets of the different birds make up the rhythm of a jungle when you head to the visitors centre in Mabira forest.

Listed Below Are Some of The Top Things to Do and See in Mabira Forest

Ziplining

The Ziplining, is one of the top activities you can do in East Africa and it’s the only Ziplining a above the tree tops, you can do it here in Mabira forest at a most reasonable price. During this activity, you will have a great opportunity to view mabira forest with all the creatures that dwell in it, you will be able to spot animals like the baboons, Mangabeys, Monkeys, and many more. You will be guided by an experienced guide; the equipment meets the standards of safety to meet the safety of the visitors while at the tree tops. The activity can be done in the morning, noon and from 1pm to 6 pm. You can include this in to your safari trip in East Africa and also a visit in Jinja would be a perfect add in to your safari in East Africa.

Nature walks:

Nature walks in mabira forest, can be done without the guide, but for the perfect and the best safari experience, we recommend that you use the resident Guides who are familiar with the forest and can give you the best safari experience when you visit Mabira forest in Uganda safari.

Nature walks in Mabira forest, do not require any fitness level any person can walk around the forest wit ease, including the children, elderly on family safari, are assured of perfect safari experience, there trails in the forest to be followed and will help you explore the depth of the forest.

While here, you will have an opportunity to view various species like the monkeys swinging from one tree to another, there also birds, butterflies as well the giant ancient trees of various types.

Mountain Biking:

 The well-maintained trails in the forest, have offered the perfect Mountain biking experience, which may visitors as ventured in to as the way of exploring the forest and far beyond the forest in to the nearby communities.

Mountain bikes can be rented from the Griffins Falls Camp, outside of the forest at the National Forestry Department facility and others can be rented from the Nile river Explorers in Jinja. Mountain biking is exciting and you have an opportunity to view various attractions in the forest such as primates. Birds, butterflies and other. Its an exciting experience you ought not miss when you take your safari trip to Mabira forest.

Mangabey trekking, Monkeys of Uganda

The Mangabey monkeys, are the rare type if monkeys and can only be found in Mabira forest in Uganda, and other few parts of the country, in in few areas bordering Tanzania.

In Mabira forest, there are three habituated groups inside the Mabira forest, you will have a guided safari to track the Mangabeys in the forest, the guides are familiar with them, and you will find it easy since many of the guides were part of the Habituation process. During the trek in the forest, you will also have an opportunity to sight other monkeys such as the Red-tailed monkeys and bird species, butterflies, flowers and different tree species and plants in the forest.

The Mangabeys have been discovered as one of the rare species in Uganda, and you do not want to miss to track the mangabey monkeys.

Birding:

Mabira forest shelters a number of different species of birds living in the forest, the forest is home to more than 315 species of birds including endangered species and bird species including; blue crested monarch, Cassin hawk-eagle, Blake bellied seed cracker among others. The best viewing places for birds are in mabira along the open woodland fields, valleys, swampy areas, and shrubs.

While here, you can have an opportunity to spot over 46% of Uganda’s forest bird species in Mabira forest, the birds here are more and can be sighted in through out the forest and you do not need to move a lot in the forest in order to sight the birds, they are easily located. You will love your birding experience while at mabira forest in Uganda.

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Nakayima Tree

Nakayima tree in Mubende, History

The Nakayima tree is located in Mubende hills and it is one of the oldest trees of the ancient times. The tree is believed to be approximately 400 to 500 years of age and it stands about 40 meters high above the ground. The tree was named after the first wife and princess of the Bachwezi king known as king Ndahura who had a wife called Nakayima who was the a daughter of the last Bachwezi. Prince Nakayima was once rooming around on the hill of Mubende is believed to have disappeared in this tree thus the name Nakayima tree. Ever since then the tree is said to posse supernatural powers of fertility, healing bas well as good healthy. The Nakayima tree is as well believed to solve problems of the community and the offer blessing.

Tree has got big buttress roots on the base and if you about 4 kilometers away in Mubende town, you will clearly observe the hooks of this tree west of the hill. The Nakayima tree root system developed a root system and formed three spaces which are believed to bedrooms of the Jjaja Musoke, Nalongo, Jjaja Masaka and Ddahula, and Nalongo.

Nakayima was a keeper of the tree and she acted as a mediator of the community and the king. Nakayima could get affected by small pox and possessed by the Ndahura spirit for a number of days and during that period she had powers to treat the disease of small pox.

Initially before the Bachwezi took ownership of the hill, there was a magician called Kamwenge who showered from Mbarara. This magician had two sons who later established themselves as the local rulers and they worked so hard to grow their territories. These were succeeded by the Bachwezi king Ndahura who over power and lived at the hill of a long period of time more than the years that the sons of the magicians had lived.

Ndahura handed over power to his son wamala when he retired in his birth place in close to fort portal that is believed to have settled at the hill.

Apparently people, who worship the Bachwezi, pay a visit to the shrines in respect to Nakayima of the Bachwezi dynasty. The Bachwezi were demi gods and the Nakayima tree was the home to all their spirits that were recognized and worshiped by the Bunyoro and Buganda people. When the local people take a visit to the Nakayima tree, they will growth sacrifices such as animals, money, harvests so as they can get favor and blessings from their gods.

There was a time when people were affected by small pox and the Bachwezi influenced the him pastoralists to stand still and wait for the healing, there were no clan powers any more instead there arose the Bito dynasty rulers who were formed by the Bachwezi king known as Mubende that meant that “there is another one”. This did not mean the king or another power but some other ruling power.

In the 1899 there was a religious conflict between the Bunyoro and baganda. The occupant Nakayiwa Nyanjara had to be forced to disappear and by the time she returned a year after, all their seven worshiping huts had been destroyed and all the graves were vandalized. Later king Kabalega took a visit to Mubende hill so as to worship with the Nyanjara.

After some years, the Mubende hill was given out to Muganda Saza through the indirect colonial rule of the existing British government who was in power in 1902. And because of this, Nyanjara had to shift to Bugogo and this is place he met his death in 1907. This was the first Nakayima who was not traditionally buried in the cemetery close to the sacred tree.

Apparently the Uganda national museum has the Nakayima Nyanjara Regalia that was captured. She died her body was taken to buried on top of Mubende hill and one of the items in her Regalia included the ancient pots. The Nakayima tree is one of the historical places to visit and it can be combined with your visit to kibale forest national park.

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Kabaka’s lake

The Kabakas Lake

History of Kabaka’s lake

History of Kabaka’s lake – Kabaka’s lake is situated in Ndeeba in between Nabunya road and Ring Road. It is a few kilometers away from Kampala capital city approximately 5 kilometers.  The lake was constructed in 1880 under the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II who wanted it to act as an “escape corridor” during the British armed conflicts. The kabaka’s lake is the largest man-made lake in Uganda and it is Africa’s excavated lake. The lake was constructed under the cooperation of over 52 tribes of Buganda, who jointly agreed to construct the Kabaka Lake during the Ssekabaka Mwanga’s regime between the 1885 and 1888 and this was a sign of respecting the king’s orders.

Kabaka Mwanga II not only wanted the lake to act as an escape but he had other interests for this lake such as; he want the lake to act as a channel connecting to lake victoria where he can travel on boat to access lake victoria so that he can enjoy fishing and swimming, Mwanga II also want an easy access to his another built palace in Mulungu hill which is close to lake victoria in Bunyonyi built by his father Mutesa before his death

Kabaka Mwanga II was known for his pride, aggressiveness, notorious and a Ruthless holocaust during his reign, despite the Kabaka’s aggressiveness and ambitious plans towards the Kabaka’s lake, the construction of the lake was abruptly interrupted and stopped before it was connected to Munyonyi, the failure to complete the lake was due to the religious wars that arose in the Buganda kingdom.  

The legendary story behind the construction of the Kabaka’s lake is extremely interesting and with the help of our knowledge guide, you will come to know that in the beginning of the construction, the parish chiefs plus the prince and princess had refused to take part in the digging of the lake so they were reported the Kabaka, something which annoyed Kabaka Mwanga II who decided to take up the tusk by himself and joined other people who had obeyed to dig. By doing this the parish chiefs, princess and princes got ashamed and they as well joined in the digging along with the kabaka.

Apparently, the kabaka’s lake covers an area of about two square kilometers and approximately 200 feet in depth. It is among the top attraction places to visit on your Kampala city tour and it is a significant conservation site Jewel to the kingdom of Buganda. It is one of the birders paradises with numerous bird species such as the little egrets. The kabaka’s lake has got intriguing picturesque views which is backed the awesome surrounding environment. A visit to the kabaka’s lake will offer you a chance to explore Kabaka’s palace which is just adjacent to the lake. You will an insight observe people who occasionally cross the lake on traditional dugout canoes.

In the annual Buganda tourism Expo which takes place around August, the king of Buganda takes courtesy with his subjects to be of the officiate watersports on the lake. The Kabaka is accompanied by his soldiers known as Abambnowa dressed smartly in their traditional attires well-armed with shields and the spears together with the ministers as well as dignitaries and a security convey.

The kabaka’s Lake has no inlet river tributaries which supplies water to this lake; it is instead supplied by underground springs. Whether in the dry o rainy season, the water Levels have always been consistent. The lake is under renovation and improvement for tourism and one of the future plans is construct a five star hotel accommodation close to it so as to encourage a lot of tourist to visit the lake.

How to get to Kabaka’s Lake

The kabaka’s lake is about 5 kilometers from the Kampala capital city and it is situated in Ndeeba between Nabunya Road and Ring Road.

Kabakas Lake, Kabaka Lake, history of Kabaka’s lake

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