CULTURAL SPOTS THAT YOU SHOULDN’T MISS IN UGANDA

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.