When it
comes to cultural safaris, Uganda is undoubtedly a cultural hotspot. It
features several exciting cultures, history and traditions for you to explore.
If you are looking for the most rewarding cultural safaris in Africa, then
Uganda is one of the best choices you can make for authentic African
experiences that come once in a life time. That said, the following are some of
the major cultural spots for you explore while on your safari in Uganda.
The Katareke Prison Ditch
Visiting
the Katareke Prison Ditch is the only way for you to explore the story of a
brutal and vicious incident in Buganda’s history. It explains about the
frightening Kabaka who was very powerful and angry. He imprisoned all his
brothers and sisters in 1888 a part from his exiled brother Kabaka Mwanga who
he had overthrown and later brutally murdered them for fear that they would one
time over take him from power. Currently this prison is a silence and sheltered
site but the left earthworks are a glowing recall of the horrific days when the
destiny of the Buganda Kingdom was unstable.
Kabaka’s Lake
This
features as the biggest man made Lake in Uganda. It is situated in Ndeeba,
Rubaga division Kampala city. It lies between Ring Road and Nabunya Road. It
covers about 5 acres and about 200 feet deep. It was created at the times of the
King Mwanga in the 1880’s for his personal enjoyment as he loved swimming and
fishing. He wished to connect it to Lake Victoria via a channel which would
serve as an escape corridor but it his idea wasn’t achieved. Currently the Lake
offers refuge to several birdlife and is acknowledged as an important
conservation site in Uganda.
Naggalabi (Buddo coronation site)
If you
want to know where the Kings of Buganda were crowned from for the last 700
years, then visit Naggalabi coronation site. It is official coronation place
for all the Kabakas of Buganda Kingdom and it lies on the panoramic hill top of
Buddo hill in Busiro county, Wakiso district along the Kampala-Masaka road
about 14 kilometers by road, Southwest of Kampala capital city. Visit this
sacred site and walk along the footsteps of the past and current Kabakas.
King’s palace at Bulange-Mengo
If you
have ever thought about visiting Buganda’s King’s palace, then the only way is
for you to visit Bulange-Mengo or Lubiri. Mengo features historical
architecture and art which attracts the attention of visitors while on Bulange
hill. It was constructed in 1885 and covers about four square miles. Besides it
there is a stunning Bulange which is the Buganda parliament structure. The
majestic colonial power house offers endowed history of one of Uganda’s ancient
Kingdoms-Buganda entrance is free though visitors may give some tips to the
guides. There are several exciting stories about the 56 clans of Buganda which
are well represented on the vestibule of Bulange. Symbols of every clan and
their importance are all described. The guide will further take you through
what it denotes to be a part of a clan today and its role. Previously, in the
1966 as Uganda encountered a political unrest, the palace was invaded and
captured. Bulange became Uganda army headquarters when Obote 11 decided to do
away with the cultural institutions. But late in 1993, National Resistance
Movement restored cultural institutions and Bulange was handed back to the
Buganda Kingdom. This also came with some limitations. The Buganda Kingdom
turned to be a legitimate monarchy. The parliament was to legislate only
cultural laws and to handle other developmental issues but was not supposed to
take part in anything political. Compared to the earlier times, the Buganda
Lukiko was not to handle any political issue. The King was made a political. By
that time, the Lukiko comprised of 68 directly elected members from the Buganda
counties, 18 Buganda county chiefs, six members who were allotted by the King
and members of Buganda cabinet ministers. The King and his prime minister have
their offices in this site together with ministers. You can also support the
Kingdom’s work by purchasing a certificate of any amount which range from 5000
to 100000 or alternatively get more of them. You can also visit the local bark
cloth shop which also has several books of history of Buganda to help you
address any questions on the Kingdom.
Ndere cultural centre
If you
love cultural dances and demonstrations, traditional dances and music, visit
the Ndere cultural center and you will rewarded with the most thrilling
cultural experiences of life time. The Ndere troupe performs a repertoire of
over 40 authentic Ugandan dances and songs accompanied by several indigenous
percussive, stringed and wind instruments. It is set on amid stunning tropical
gardens, houses a wealth of Ugandan culture in the middle of Kampala. There is
also a café and craft shop where the usual performances occur by the dazzling
Ndere troupe.
CULTURAL AND TRADITIONAL DANCES AT NDERE CENTRE |
In
conclusion, there is more in offer in Uganda than the spectacular wildlife
species that are confined in the magnificent national parks. Cultural safaris
in this country have become one of the most sought after experiences by most
travelers. Come and explore numerous exciting and interesting cultural
practices, dances, music and other performances that reward travelers with
authentic African experiences.
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