Arsenal Africa Fans Festival, April 2020: Kampala Edition (Part 1)

“Bonne année! Bonne année! Toute l’Afrique bonne année!” Bonne année is a song by Lucassa Ya M’bongo that simply wishes all Africans and everyone a happy new year!

Lucassa Ya M’bongo is a Congolese guitarist who has worked with among others; Sam Mangwana of the famous Fatimata song, Tshala Muana of Dezo Dezo song, and Kanda Bongo Man of the legendary hit song ‘My love Elizabeth’.

It’s pomp, flash, and color as we usher in yet another decade; the year is 2020, a leap year. Leap year comes once every four years. This article makes special acknowledgment to all Gooners and Goonerettes whose birthdays fall on 29th February. We understand, it’s not easy celebrating a birthday once in four years while the rest of us do it twelve-monthly, so hey mate, happy birthday in advance! 

Today marks exactly 100 days before the mega shut down in Kampala, Uganda in an all-rounded Arsenal fans affair dubbed Arsenal Africa Fans Festival, slated for the Easter of 2020. Every year, Arsenal fans in the larger Eastern Africa, part of Western Africa and the Southern part of the continent congregate in an annual fans festival to celebrate the unity that Arsenal Football Club has brought amongst its fan.

Gooners Uganda, under the able leadership of Dr. Hannington Mwesigye and Ms. Ninaz Cherie, alongside the Festival Committee, has shared preliminary program of the event to allow traveling fans of visiting nations to plan ahead of time logistics on transport and accommodation. I seek your indulgence as we dissect different key sections of the program to facilitate the making of one of the most anticipated events of 2020.

Nob View Ntinda Hotel. 

Nob View Ntinda Hotel, poolside

Nob View Hotel is the host hotel, located in Kampala Central, Uganda. The hotel has three types of accommodation packages; 1-bedroom apartments, twin & double rooms and single rooms. 

The 1-bedroom apartment has two beds that can host three people, a living room, kitchen area, and a fridge.


The twin & double rooms as the names suggest, the former has two separate beds that can host two people, and the latter has two sizeable beds doubled up to make one big bed suitable for couples. 

As indicated on the shared program: single rooms will cost you $30 per person per night. All three packages are half-board, that is, bed and breakfast. 

Single Room

Twin Room

Social amenities such as Health Club and an Olympic pool, free Wi-Fi are available within the hotel. 

There’s also DSTV and free computers to complement the rooms. The self-contained rooms and apartments have balconies that offer spectacular views of the adjacent hills. 

The hotel is 15 minutes away from the main bus stop and about 45 minutes away from Entebbe International Airport. Airport shuttles, Dhobi services, room services, storage rooms, bar & lounge, and restaurant are all available.

Jacob Katumba aka TBM

Mr. Jacob Katumba alias Thirsty Bar Man or fondly known as TBM is the person who calls the shots in terms of lodging logistics and can be contacted on +256 787 122 530. 

Everyone is reminded that the payment deadline for hotel booking remains by or before end of February 2020. 

Visiting fans who choose to make their own accommodation plans will cater for their own logistics.

Visa, Passport, Yellow Fever Certificate & ID. 

Uganda is a member state of the East Africa Community (EAC), and on 31st January 2018, a unanimous directive to roll out the new EA e-passport for all East Africans was given. The sole purpose of the e-passports is to ease border crossing for East Africans. 

Therefore, visiting Arsenal Fans from Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi do not require visa for entry to Uganda. Only, the passport and the Yellow Fever Certificate suffices. In other instances, East Africans may use their national IDs as a substitute for a passport. Those with no passports can opt to apply for temporary passports at the immigration offices of their respective countries.

The new East African e-passport

For the rest of the visiting Gooners and Goonerettes, there are 3-ways to obtain your tourist visa for Uganda; on arrival, online from Official Uganda Website and at the Uganda Consulate or Embassy in your respective countries. It has been established that, among the three named options above, visa on arrival is the most preferred and recommended way of obtaining a tourist visa for Uganda, either at the port of entry like the border or Entebbe Airport. 

Uganda tourist visa will cost you $50 for damages. All passports should be valid for more than six months from the date of travel. International Certificate for Yellow Fever is a standard mandatory requirement across the board.

Flying to Kampala.

There are about 10 airlines that fly to Uganda either as direct flights, connecting flights or indirect flights, periodically. The most popular ones include; RwandaAir, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, South African Airways, Fly Emirates and Qatar Airways just to name a few. All these airlines fly to Entebbe Airport, the only international airport and the primary entry point into the country. 

Subject to your location and the time of flight booking, prices will vary from airline to another subject to discounts, surcharges and of course, seat type whether economy or first class. Rule of thumb is: the earlier you book your ticket, the greater the deal on the prices.

 Flying Gooners and Goonerettes are advised to take advantage of the festive season to check out those flights for #TugendeKampala Easter of 2020. Ticket prices to Kampala, Uganda range from $200 to around $700, give or take.

Uganda Airline, recently relaunched.

The relaunch of Uganda Air less than six months ago, has been one of the most exciting news for Ugandans and the larger African continent. With the new kid in the block, this could only mean one thing, that airfares will reduce subsequently because of stiff competition that other carriers will face from Uganda Air. 

Currently, Uganda Air flies to Kenya, Tanzania, Somali, South Sudan and Burundi. South Africa and Central Africa routes are soon yet to be announced. Uganda Air first came into existence in 1971, officially being flagged off by the then president, the late Idi Amin Dada. The collapse of the Uganda Air in 2001 was as a result of liquidation by the Government of Uganda.

Road trip to Kampala. 

Modern Coast buses, tours East Africa countries

From past personal experiences, I’d recommend road tripping to Kampala, Uganda if planning to visit the Pearl of Africa when not in a rush.


It is relatively pocket-friendly and leaves you with beautiful memories as you feed your eyes on the green-carpeted landscape of Uganda. 

There are five countries that border Uganda, with Kenya to the East, Tanzania to the South, South Sudan to the North, Rwanda to the South-West and Democratic Republic of Congo to the West.

At all these border points, travel documents including passport or ID, Yellow Fever Certificate and sometimes visa for non-East Africans will need to be presented to the immigration offices at the border. One can choose to use a car, bus, motor, or a 4 x 4 for your entry to Uganda by road. It will be noted that, special permits are required for vehicles crossing the border including the Comesa Card, also called the Yellow Card Insurance. One can easily get this from their local car insurer.

3 Day Program of activities. 

The Easter of 2020 falls on the dates: April the 10 (Good Friday), all the way to April the 13 (Easter Monday). Being the fourth edition of the Arsenal Fans Festival, everyone will be converging in Kampala, Uganda, the host city.

The official arrival date will be on the Good Friday with visiting Gooners and Goonerettes expected as from 7:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. GMT+3. The guests will then check in at their respective lodging places before attending an Introduction Party scheduled to start as from 8:00 P.M. till late into the night.

Entebbe International Airport

Arriving guests will be picked from the Entebbe Int’l Airport as well as from the main bus terminal in Kampala town. Official representatives from visiting nations are obligated to liaise with their various teams and come up with a list of names, contact information and travel itinerary for its members to facilitate easy pick and drop.

Be a Gooner, Be a Giver tagline, resonates with most Arsenal fans across the world. Arsenal is well known for being more than just a football club as it supports many foundations helping the needy in the society: part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

The noble gesture trickles down to its fans and it’s no surprise that the brainchild of the Arsenal Fans Festival is the charity. On Saturday 11, the main activity of the day will be the charity. Everyone will be required to put on the Arsenal home kit, our official jersey. Detailed information about the charity venue and activities to be carried out will be shared in the next article. The charity will take place from 9:00 A.M to 2:00 P.M.

After the charity, lunch will be served courtesy of Gooners Uganda and thereafter outdoor activities including ball games, tug of wars and board games to follow suit. And as the English Premier League season of 2019/2020 approaches the tail end, Arsenal F.C will have a match playing away to Wolves at Molineux Stadium on this day.

Panamera Bar, Kampala

The dress code for this particular Arsenal match will be the away jerseys. Panamera Bar in Naguru will be the place to catch the Arsenal match as from 5:00 P.M. until 7.00 P.M. 

And when the night falls, as predictable as it can be, while other cities in East Africa go to sleep, Kampala is just getting started for party after party after party. 

On Sunday 12, breakfast will be served from 8:00 to 9:00, and from then on, Arsenal Fans will have a tour of the larger Kampala City until 2:00 P.M.

Whoever has not been to Entebbe this is going to be an opportunity of a lifetime, as the Sunday afternoon will have the contingent travel to Entebbe with lunch on-board courtesy of Gooners Uganda. 

There will be beach games from late afternoon to early nightfall and then Gooners Uganda will be bidding farewell to groups going back to their countries on that Sunday. From 8:00 P.M. to around 9:30 P.M, official representatives of each supporter’s club, will then have a leaders meeting to plan for next activities and choose the next host country. After the meeting, everyone remaining will go back to Kampala to continue with party after party in the city that never sleeps. 

Monument at Uganda National Museum

Remaining Gooners and Goonerettes will on Monday 13, have a special visit to the Uganda National Museum and discover more about the Pearl of Africa and its history. 

Transport within Kampala, and to and from Entebbe will be provided by Gooners Uganda. Mr. Meddie Kayima is in charge of transport logistics and he can be reached on +256 776 458 863.

Arsenal Uganda Supporters Club was founded in 2010 and has been growing in numbers ever since with about 300 fans spread across the country. It is committed to creating space and opportunities for fans to support the only club awarded the Golden Premier League trophy in commemoration of the unbeaten run during the entire league season, the one and only Arsenal F.C.

Follow on Twitter:
Arsenal Uganda Supporters Club 

Official hashtag for the event:

#TugendeKampala2020

Your girl, yours truly,
Lisa Biwott M.


With utmost regards and sincere appreciation to:

Mr. Jacob Katumba
Ms. Ninaz Cheri
Dr. Hannington Mwesigye
Mr. Solomon Kuteesa
Mr. Michael Muniko
Mr. Dickson K-jo
Mr. Stephen Ndung'u
Arsenal Uganda Supporters Club,
Executive Committee, Gooners Uganda

Sources

#TugendeKampala Program

The writer of this article is a lifetime goonerette, who attended all the first three editions of the Arsenal Africa Fans Festival in Dar es Salaam, Kigali and Mombasa.

Arsenal Kenya partnership with Tusker Lite Sky Bar

“We could have chosen any other supporters fans club, but we chose Arsenal Kenya.” Those were the words of Mr. Boaz Momanyi, Marketing Assistant Sky Bar. 

The official sponsors of Sky Bar is Tusker Lite, hence the name Tusker Lite Skybar in its social media handles. “You have the numbers, we have the experience,” he added.

Sky Bar is at the heart of Westlands Nairobi. Located off Waiyaki Way, inside Ibis Styles Hotel, along Rhaphta road. It is 450 meters from the Westlands round about.

Courtesy of Tusker Lite Sky Bar, Arsenal fans in Kenya are officially being invited to make Ibis Styles their home of entertaining soccer experience for all Arsenal matches in this 2019/2020 season.

“Hey guys, so we shall watch our match kesho (tomorrow) at Sky Bar in Ibis Styles. 

I urge you all to come in large numbers, lots of things in store for you. 

Invite all your friends let’s paint Ibis red,” read in part, a post by Gladys Gakenia to Arsenal Kenya fans on different social media platforms.

Balcony view at Sky Bar, Westlands

Well, it takes a little more than an Arsenal beautified poster and the venue direction, to convince fans that they’ll have a good soccer match experience. It’s no different with Arsenal fans in Kenya, and Gladys’ announcement was met with mixed reactions from the members. 

We all know why. Your guess is as good as mine; the beer prices. It’s a tradition that beer, nyama choma and wide screens make an amazing soccer experience, at least, if you cannot afford to catch the game live at the stadiums.

Seeing is believing. So I, and a few others went there to get the experience, first-hand. Dear Arsenal fans, Kenya, here is a brief overview of what Sky Bar offers.

Draft, German beer.

a). 2 jugs (2 litres) of Stylish Brew @ Kes 1,000. This is the German Draft   beer. The offer lasts until the first goal is scored, during the match time.

b). Local beers buckets offer @ Kes 1,500.  A bucket has 5 beers, any local beer of your choice.

c). Vegeterian platter and local beer buckets @ Kes 2,000.

d). Southern Fried wings, 1KG bowl with large fries and pitcher of beer @ Kes 2,200.

e). Large gourmet beef burgers, and large fries and pitcher of beer @ Kes 2,400.

f). Daily happy hour from 5:30 to 8:00 on all cocktails and Stylish Brew jugs.

g). Quiz night Tuesdays, Karaoke Wednesdays, Thursday Ribs night, Party night Fridays & Saturdays and Stylish Sundays.

It was more than obvious that we would inquire about the beer prices, as quick math shows that, a bucket of 5 beers for Kes 1,500 translates to Kes 300 a beer bottle. Mr. Boaz explained that, ordinarily a beer would cost Kes 450 and this he said is the standard beer price for most bars in Westlands owing to the fact that its an upmarket. 

Tusker Lite Sky Bar entrance

He also added that, enhanced features, the beautiful ambience, enough sitting spaces, prime location of the bar, excellent customer experience, proximity to the city center were some of the factors that were considered in their pricing. 

However, an offer of beer bucket for Kes 1,500 was considered in order to achieve this endeared partnership with Arsenal fans in Kenya.

Mr. Boaz assured us, the few members present, that if we bring the numbers, the Sky Bar management will surely reconsider their beer pricing to a further reduction. 

“Bring the numbers, we bring down the prices,” he concluded. Here is my two cents to Sky Bar management, "Retain the bucket price at Kes 1,500, and just make it 6 beers a bucket instead of 5."

Arsenal fans Kenya at Sky Bar during the Bornemouth game

From a personal experience, I want to believe that Sky Bar, could suffice as a good place to enjoy Arsenal games moving forward. We can make it our home venue for match screening this season, and weigh out the experience vis-a-vis the previous match venues we’ve had. If we bring our numbers, and they don’t keep their part of the deal, we will always have options. The management, through Mr. Boaz, promised a win-win situation, if we turn up in convincing numbers. 

More Arsenal fans at the Ibis Styles. Arsenal won 1 nil.

Arsenal Kenya Fans Club Facebook page, indicates there are over 36,000 members. But we all know, overall in the country, the exact number of Arsenal fans spills into hundreds of thousands, if not a million yet. In the spirit of Arsenal fans Kenya, let’s show them what we are made of!

Ms. Gakenia, will communicate to members the next scheduled match screening date. Meanwhile, let’s follow Sky Bar on Facebook at Tusker Lite Skybar and Tusker Lite Sky Bar on Instagram. 

#COYG

Your Girl, Yours truly,
Lisa Biwott M.

Uganda: Through The Eyes of a Kenyan (Part II)

Kampala, Capital City of Uganda

It is, not only the capital city of Uganda, it has also been ranked as the best East African city to live in. Kampala, has won itself this accolade for the third time in a row according to the Mercer Quality of Living Ranking 2019.  

City of 7 hills, presently Kampala, was built over the old capital of the Buganda Kingdom located on Mengo Hill. 

Kampala is located only 72km away from the center of the world, the equator. And even though this is so, it still experiences mild climate despite the close proximity.

The Happy City, City of Seven Hills

Seven is the magic number in the word Kampala, and seven is the number of hills that make up this city. 

The hills include Namirembe, Mengo, Nakasero, Rubaga, Kibuli, Mulago and Old Kampala. Ibadan city in Nigeria and Yaounde, the capital of Cameroon also take up the name ‘city of seven hills’ in Africa. 

‘Kampala' derives its name from the phrase "Kasozi K' mpala", which translates to hill of impala. Legend has it that, one time, the area had a large population of impalas. Luganda is the predominant language spoken by most people in Kampala.

Uganda National Mosque, Kampala 

According to the 2014 national census in Uganda, record has it that 14% of the population professed Islam religion. 

The National Mosque of Uganda is the largest mosque in East Africa and was a gift donation from People of Libya to the People of Uganda through Col. Muammar Gaddafi.

It was named ‘Gaddafi National Mosque’ in June 2007 after its official opening only to be renamed 6 years later to ‘Uganda National Mosque’ following the death of Colonel Gaddafi. 

Defying all odds in the Old Kampala hill to reshape the Skyline of Kampala; the National Mosque has a seating capacity of approximately 15,000 worshippers and can hold slightly over 4,000 other occupants at ago. Gaddafi Mosque in Tanzania  is the second largest mosque in East Africa and a sister to the renamed Gaddafi National Mosque of Uganda.

A unique country, richly covered in Savannah grasslands and heavy woody vegetation, the Pearl of Africa prides itself of three UNESCO world heritages. Two national parks: Bwiindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (home of the Mountain Gorillas), Mt. Rwenzori National Park (Mountains of the moon) and a cultural site, Kasubi Tombs.

Baby Mufumbiro

The Mountain Gorillas (Mufumbiro or Muhavura if you like) exist only in Congo, Rwanda and Uganda. With a world population of 880 Mountain Mufumbiro, Uganda homes the biggest percentage of them all.

 Lately, (as informed) most tourists get their trekking permits from the Uganda side since, it is claimed to be cheaper and have varieties of the Gorillas. The cheapest Gorilla trekking permit will cost you $600 for damages in Uganda. 

Tony Adams after the 15th Kwita Izina. Onset is Willy Kamanzi

Unlike Uganda, Rwanda, a nation bordering Uganda to the South, every September holds an annual Gorilla (baby) naming ceremony called Kwita Izina. Launched in 2005, over 258 Mountain Gorillas have been named since then, with each baby being given a different name based on the circumstances in which it was born.

 Tony Adams and Laureano Etamé are the most recent Arsenal legends who named new born gorillas Sur'urwanda and Ikipe respectively, in the 2019 Kwita Izina ceremony. Arsenal F.C signed a $30 million sponsorship deal with Rwanda that will run for three years. And part of the deal included a visit to Rwanda by Arsenal players. 

Longest river in the world, River Nile

Did you know that River Nile in Uganda is not only the disputed longest river in the world but also the primary water source for Egypt and Sudan? 

Estimated at about 6,650km long, its drainage basin covers 11 countries and Lake Victoria is sometimes believed to be its source.  

Big deal as it may seem; it is told that Nile River only contains about 5% of the water volume of Congo River in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). 

Deepest river in the world, Congo River

Congo River (A.K.A Zaire River) as described; is the second largest river in Africa, second largest voluminous river in the world (after Amazon River in Brazil) and takes the crown to be the world deepest river! 

They say, it's so deep that nobody really knows how deep it is. Just so you know, there are about 212 bible verses (could be more actually) that either mentions or describes River Nile in the Bible (King James Version).

Busia, a town found in both Uganda and Kenya is famously known for the Boda boda taxis. Boda bodas are motorcycles and bicycles that act as alternative faster means of transport in most urban centers. According to internet sources, by 2013, there were more than 300,000 Boda boda taxis operating in Kampala, Uganda. 

Boda boda rider with a passenger

Unregulated and disobedience of road traffic rules, saw an increase of accidents, crimes and disorderliness as the industry was rapidly growing. 

These occasioned the introduction of the Safeboda, one among many technology innovations that has helped to streamline the sector in Uganda. Certainly, Boda bodas, a very popular means of transport in most African countries is truly a necessary evil.

Sports betting addiction and night clubbing is so tantamount with Kenya and Uganda that you would think (the two nations) are cheeks of the same butt. 

3in1 betting shop, Kampala

A reliable source confirms, that despite sports betting ban on January 21, 2019 by the by president of Uganda H.E Y.K Museveni, the orders are yet to be implemented and the opposite is true.

It can be seen across one street in Kampala, a building housing even up to 3 in 1 betting shops just like that! In Kenya, on May 21, 2019, 17 foreigners were deported for being involved in illegal gambling business in the country. 

In Kenya, the popular gaming firm SportPesa in 2018, announced a mega jackpot winner who scooped a whooping $2 million!

Betting (sports), was birthed at the tail of the 1990s and has since evolved into a popular online service in many countries.

Cases of tax evasion, addiction and exploitation have been main reasons why both governments in the two countries, Kenya and Uganda are going ham on betting companies.

 The Kampala Night Life

The African capital city that never sleeps. The city that believes that good music has no expiration date. A city that is free flowing with all alcoholic beverages.

A country that’s a proud home to Waragi and the Nile Special. A country that has patented the famous rolex, because the citizens and the foreigners alike couldn’t help themselves but salivate thanks to its authentic flavored taste. Rolex, a street food that is readily available to all and sundry both day and night in the streets of Kampala.

Arsenal Fans Festival is on its tour of Africa. And on its fourth expedition of the continent, Kampala Uganda, will be the privileged host come Easter 2020. 

Apart from the charity activities and round visits to historical sites of the Pearl of Africa, must do on the list is, spending memorable, quality evenings in the city that never sleeps. Only one word to visiting gooners and anyone new to Kampala night life, do not leave your common sense in the hotel rooms. Tag along with it.

The city that never sleeps: HQ of Entertainment in East Africa

Just like Nairobi night life, Kampala comes to a standstill as from late evenings. Bars and clubs remain open all night long, and some run for 24 hours. Do not leave your drinks unattended, your drinks will get spiked for sure. Watch out for conmen and women who are out for petty crimes. For your best interests, always move around with a Ugandan, especially at night. 

Call girls and ‘escort girls’ are very present in almost all the clubs, don’t fall for their traps. A little birdie told me they are called ‘mosquito girls’. It’s advisable to always practice the ABCs at all times.  For your security, the bouncers are ever present, and digital taxis are readily available.

“… without you I can start complaining, without you my life has no meaning. Let’s make an appointment, breakfast in bed in your apartment, I need no disappointment…”

The late Ugandan Musician, Mowzey Radio

“… unapendeza sana sana zuena, zuena x2, unaniumiza sana sana, zuena, zuena x2. Zuena nagonjwa sana ndani, zuena unaniumiza deep inside me…” May Mowzey Radio’s gentle soul continue resting in peace. 

“Muda mrefu Jamila hatuonani, eti ni gari imekuleta kwangu nyumbani. Karibu nikupe kiti, unielezee nini mamaa…” Those lyrics used to rock, right? Cheers to good times and good music. It is musically illegal and forbidden to talk about the HQ of Entertainment in East Africa, without mentioning the melodious musicians who introduced Kampala to the world.  

Juliana Kanyamozi, Musician

Every Kenyan, the 80s and 90s babies, grew up listening to Jose Chameleone, Juliana Kanyamozi, Radio & Weasel, Obessions, Bebe Cool (my sisters’ all time crush), Bobi Wine, Blu3, Jackie Chandiru among unmentioned lot. 

Throw Back Thursdays gives us good memories of songs like; Jangu, Jamila, Amaaso, Dorotia, Magnetic, Zuena, Nakudata, Bread and Butter just to mention a few.

Truth is most songs in Uganda are in Luganda, but all you need is a combination harmonized instrumentals to tell you what a good music is, and for sure Kampala entertainment spots will feed your souls with those. It’s also a good opportunity to learn Luganda and be able to whisper to your better half, nkwagalanyo!

#TugendeKampala2020

Arsenal Uganda Supporters Club is full of joy and cannot hide its excitement even as the preparations to host the fourth edition of the Arsenal Africa Fans Festival hits a notch higher. 

News flash is that the preliminary outline of the planned event is out and the nitty-gritties of the budget already dispersed to the invited guest nations. A more detailed breakdown of the budget is still a work in progress and this will be shared in 

the coming days.

Nob View Hotel, Ntinda

Good news is that Nob View Hotel Ntinda has been confirmed to be the host hotel during the coveted Easter bonanza for 2020 in Kampala.

Damages will be $30 per person, per night, which will be half-board. 

Swimming pool and Wi-Fi will come as a compliment for the package. In addition, gym, dhobi services, and airport shuttles will be available at a friendly cost. The hotel is approximately 47 minutes away from Entebbe International Airport and 15 minutes away from the Kampala main bus terminal.

Further details on #TugendeKampala2020 will be shared in our next episode on this series of #TulambuleUganda2020. I hope you enjoy this read out.



Follow on twitter:
Arsenal Supporters Club Uganda
#TugendeKampala2020
#TulambuleUganda2020
 @biwottlisa

Your girl, yours truly,

Lisa Biwott M.

With utmost regards and sincere appreciation to:

Jacob Katumba

Ninaz Sherry

Dr. Hannington Mwesigye

Soule Kuteesa

Olivier Rusell

Fadhili Bora
William Steve Kamanzi

Arsenal Uganda Supporters Club 

Executive Committee, Gooners Uganda

Weebale nyo ❤

Sources

Mercer Quality of Living Ranking 2019

Jungle Safari Uganda

https://www.independent.co.ug/kampala-is-best-eac-city/

https://visitkampala.net/about-kampala/

The writer of this article is a lifetime goonerette, who attended all the first three editions of the Arsenal Easter Africa festivals in Dar es Salaam, Kigali & Mombasa. She is also a freelance writer and a blogger at Up-close & Personal with LB

Uganda: Through The Eyes Of A Kenyan (Part I)

Dr. Mitch Egwang as an MC at TPF 4

“…you want another rap? Yes Sebbo!” Remember the famous Museveni (M7) rap song? Uganda is unapologetically very popular among many Kenyans. Talk of the Migingo Island; ‘if Migingo Island belongs to Kenya, then the waters belong to Uganda’ it was joked. 

Do you recall the Tusker Project Fame (TPF) TV show? Dr. Mitch Egwang & Juliana Kanyamozi were squarely involved as MCee and a judge respectively. How about the Anne Kansiime comedy show that aired on Citizen TV? Patrick Salvador at Churchill @40? Who forgets the tale tell of ‘Ngombe za Museveni?  Do these rejuvenate your memory about Uganda? Well, read along.

“For God and My Country”. This is the Motto of Uganda, the second largest landlocked country in the world (after Ethiopia), the second largest producer of bananas in the world (after India).  The 31st largest country by population and 81st largest geographically in the world; the East African nation with a population of over 45 million (World Population 2019) is also known as the Pearl of Africa.

National animal of Republic of Uganda

Uganda boasts of 11% of birds world species found in it, no wonder the grey Crowned Crane at the center of its flag symbolizing the country’s national animal. 

I bet the name ‘Uganda Cranes’ resonates with most soccer lovers across the continent. Uganda remains to be one of the sought after countries with an annual turnover record of 1 million tourists; you have to give it up to its ever hospitable and very friendly citizens.

Today, I visited myself. This day; Wednesday, 29th March 2017, during my maiden road trip to Kampala, and my first time ever in Uganda, gives me fond memories and curves a smile on my lips whenever Uganda is mentioned. No doubt Kenya is green, but the grass is ‘literally’ greener on the other side! You know, like the bible verse (Psalms 23:2) 'He makes me lie down in green pastures…?' Yes, that is exactly the green we are talking about!

Unnamed Road in Uganda

Any ‘road tripper’ may agree with me that the corridor from the Kenya-Uganda (Malaba) border, all the way to the first town into Uganda is covered with green vegetation if not thick bushes with tall trees that gives a visually pleasing and eyeful scenery. For a moment there, while driving on this stretch of a road, you may think you are out of Africa!

I remember, after checking in at The Fairway Hotel, I went to the spa for you know the obvious reasons; the over 12 hours on the road, Kampala traffic notwithstanding! I only managed to visit the craft Market as this was a work related trip and I was working on a borrowed time. I needed to be on my way back the following evening.

Fairway hotel, Kafu Rd, Nakasero, Kampala Uganda

After a year anniversary, I was back in Kampala Uganda. This time it was a vacation, on our way to Kigali for the Arsenal Africa Easter festivals. Thanks to a couple of friends from the Arsenal Uganda Supporters Club, we visited several places including the very busy Downtown Kampala.

It is worth noting that the prices of items are unbelievably very affordable! Here, money exchange hands in several currencies including Kenyan shillings! It’s very rare in Kenya whether uptown or downtown to buy assortments using a different currency except of course; if you are paying your hotel bill in dollars in one of those ‘high end’ hotels or at the Duty free shop inside the airport.

Kenya, for example, a country that borders Uganda to the East has had lots of its citizens cross into Uganda whether on grounds of education, work, trade or even through intermarriage. ‘Lukikko’, ‘Buganda Kingdom’, ‘Milton Obote’, ‘Kabaka’, ‘Idi Amin’ are a few known historical names amongst many Kenyans who went through the 8.4.4 education system that had a subject in the lower primary called Geography, History & Civics (G.H.C).

Forest Whitaker as Idd Amin

Idi Amin in particular, the story of the infamous dictator, was widely taught  in Kenyan history books both in the primary & secondary levels that the name Idi Amin and Uganda became synonymous.

Historians say, during his period as the president of Uganda (after overthrowing the government while president Obote was away in Singapore), about 300,000 civilians were killed and millions displaced including the Asian community that was expelled out of Uganda in 1972.

Last King of Scotland - Main Movie Casts

After being exiled in Libya & Saudi Arabia for close to 24 years, Idi Amin Dada, born around 1925, and who doubled up as a politician and a soldier; died on August 16, 2003 due to Kidney failure (African History - Idi Amin).

The movie, The Last King of Scotland, starring Forest Whitaker, is based on events of Idi Amin's rule in Uganda. For your understanding and viewership pleasure, here is the movie link!

A Kenyan family friend, Parnwel, a practicing advocate and an Alumnus of Makerere University narrates to me about his campus years back in the day. As I gave him my ears, he was beside himself every time I asked about Uganda women. “Ugandan women are what every Kenyan man should have.” He stated briefly. Sigh! At last he said something! I could read in between the lines and I didn’t want to press more, so instead I chose to focus on Makerere University.

Makerere University, University Rd, Kampala Uganda

One of the distinguished, prestigious institutions of higher learning in Africa, ranked number 1 in Uganda, 5th in Africa and number 771 in the world; Makerere University is very famous among Kenyans and especially among Kenyan parents of the 80’s and 90’s who would do anything to enroll their children here for tertiary education.

Former president of Kenya (Mwai Kibaki) at Makerere varsity

Celebrated individuals from Kenya who have studied at the institution include; former president Mwai Kibaki, Oginga Odinga (first vice president) and renowned Novelist Ngugi wa Thiong’o. 

Other notable alumni are; former presidents Benjamin Mkapa(tz), Julius Nyerere(tz), Joseph Kabila(congo) & Milton Obote(ug). Bobi Wine, Ali Mazrui, Aloisea Inyumba, Janet Museveni and Kizza Besyige are also among the many others. (Makerere Alumni). Established in 1922 as Uganda Technical College, by 2018, Makerere had over 35,000 students enrolled at the institute.

Taking a Modern Coast night bus that leaves Nairobi at 2100 hrs for Kampala, we expected to reach Namirembe Road, the Modern Coast Terminal in Kampala at least around 0600 hrs. Having shared our travel itinerary with our hosts, they were already at the bus station as from 0700 hrs. It turned out that we were to meet them at around midday thanks to the Kampala traffic congestion!

Kampala - Entebbe express highway

Believe it or not, Kampala traffic is that bad, that it is listed by the British Broadcasting Cooperation (BBC) in the top 10 monster traffic jams in the world. Very striking resemblances with Nairobi traffic jam which also made it to the BBC listing.

A little rain, poor drainage, narrow roads, round-abouts, bad road networks are part of the major culprits of traffic jams in these two cities. 

“Widening the roads, proper road marking, introduction of intelligent traffic lights, flyovers and stringent traffic rules could greatly reduce the traffic jam” a frustrated motorist noted in one of the Ugandan dailies.

Ever heard the word Uglish? What comes to your mind? Well, just like the Kenyan Swanglish, Uglish is the Ugandan English; a unique flavored localized version of the English Language being spoken. 

You may fail to recognize a Ugandan by their looks but as sure as it can get, you will never miss to tell an Uglish (complemented by the accent it comes with) as soon as the natives start to speak.

Some written articles give examples of Uglish words and their meanings like; extend means ‘move out of the way’, borrow me some money  means ‘lend me some money’, campuser  means ‘a university student’ etc.  


A Ugandan, Bernard Sabiiti actually has written a dictionary for Uglish! Travelling gooners planning to attend the #TugendeKampala2020 will find this dictionary very resourceful!           

Chukwunenye, a Nigerian friend and a former colleague one time during a random office Skype call, couldn't help himself but exclaim how Kenyans have a very particular accent. 

I was taken in awe to think that all along I knew Kenyans had no accent at all?! Over and above that, I find Ugandan accent very enticing, sometimes funny but enjoyable to listen to two Ugandans conversing in English. 

The Kenyan-Mexican based actress Lupita Nyongo starring in the movie Queen of Katwe as Nakku Harriet, mastered so well the Ugandan accent that truly left me drooling. No question, after the South African flavored English accent and the Nigerian Pidgin English, Uglish accent is definitely on my bait list! The official languages in Uganda are Swahili & English; however Luganda is widely spoken across the country.

A Ugandan lady.

Stellah Nimusiima from Uganda

  

In a world where you can be anything, choose to be a Ugandan! Una, a lady friend from Uganda who works with Marie Stopes in Kampala told me one day.  We met at the Kenya-Uganda border (Malaba) at the immigration. She was en route to Kenya to pay a call on a Kenyan friend.

It is undeniable that a lot has been said about the Ugandan woman, fondly known as ‘Nyabo’ in the local dialect, Luganda. Very beautiful, humble, submissive, sexy, charming, flirty, voluptuous, are some of the adjectives that have been used to describe her. And ooh yes, Ugandan women are very fertile too!

Mariam Nabatanzi, Uganda's most fertile woman.

We all remember the story of Mariam Nabatanzi, married off at 12 years of age, she has had five set of twins, four sets of triplets and five sets of quadruplets! Incredibly unbelievable right?!

At just 39 years, Mariam is a mother of 44 children with 38 surviving and six dead. She is described as a woman with unusually large ovaries.  Real strength of a woman! Mi Amigos, Shaggy surely did get this one right with that song.

A Ugandan woman.

Listed at number 8 on the top 10 list of countries with most curvaceous and well-endowed women in the African continent(internet sources); it is only fair to say that we (read: women rights activists) cannot blame the Ugandan Junior Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiques for introducing the ‘Miss Curvy Uganda’ pageant to boost Uganda tourism; can we? 

Let’s leave it at that for now since the matter is still at large. We talk about Kachabali in the coming series of #TugendeKampala2020.

Arsenal Africa Fans’ Festival goes to Kampala, Uganda in 2020. Hosted by Arsenal Uganda Supporter's Club, this is going to be the 4th Edition of the annual Easter bonanzas with the previous editions happening in Dar es Salaam, Kigali & Mombasa respectively. About eight nations are projected to participate with Zimbabwe, Zambia and South-Sudan expected to make their grand entries. Ms. Ninaz Sherry had to say the below about Arsenal Fans in Uganda.

Members of Arsenal Fans fans in Uganda at a past charity.

It was founded in 2010 by Ms. Ninaz Sherry & Dr Hannington Mwesigye.  “As our first chapter, Arsenal Uganda Supporters Club created a game day ritual of watching matches together”. Ninaz begun. “Arsenal Fans in Kampala would congregate together at different places including City Ville, Bettina Pub and Equator at Sheraton Hotel. What began as few friends meeting up for the game, grew into bigger”.

“After watching a couple of games together”, she continued, “talks about being recognized and creating a footprint as Arsenal Fans in Uganda started and this saw the creation of a WhatsApp group in 2014 and we named it Arsenal Family Uganda.”

Ms. Ninaz further explains that; since then, Arsenal fans in Uganda have held several activities together as a fans’ club including; organizing charity football tournaments to raise money for the disadvantaged, participating in football competitions as well having 'get-togethers' as an Arsenal family.

Arsenal Fans Supporters' Club - Kampala, Uganda.

“Love for ‘the beautiful game’ spans into generations, and Arsenal Uganda Supporter's Club is committed to creating space and opportunities for fans to support our club together. From family-friendly events and meet-ups to a safe and inviting match-day experience; Arsenal Uganda Supporters Club aims to be a fan club where Arsenal Fans of all kinds in Uganda feel at home”, Ninaz concludes.

Hash tags created on twitter are:

#TugendeKampala2020 and

#TurambuleUganda2020.
Follow me on twitter @biwottlisa, and Lisa Biwott on Facebook 

Watch-out for Uganda: Through The Eyes of  A Kenyan (Part II): Lets talk about, Kampala night life, Kachabali, Kampala city, Waragi, Rolex, Luwombo, Kobelo, Nile Special, longest river in the world & the third most beautiful currency note in the world among many other interesting facts on Uganda!

With utmost regards and sincere appreciation to:

Jacob Katumba
Fadhil Bora
Stellah Nimusiima
Ninaz Sherry
All +256 crew who willingly shared information with me.

Sources

https://www.monitor.co.ug/SpecialReports/traffic-jam-Kampala-being-addressed-/688342-4351870-13085oez/index.html
https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-19716687

https://kabiza.com/kabiza-wilderness-safaris/uglish-ugandan-english-101-for-visitors-to-
uganda/
https://www.newvision.co.ug/new_vision/news/1486615/makerere-ranks-5th-africa