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

Arsenal Africa Mombasa Edition – 'The Aftermath'

The charity at St Barnabas Mission School

St Barnabas Mission School, Utange

With now a population of 350 children, St Barnabas Mission School was started in 2010 with only six(6) street children through an initiative by a former special needs teacher of St Peters Primary school, Bamburi Mombasa Kenya. The name Bamburi is derived from the local Bantu words "Ba" and "Mburi"; a town in Kisauni sub-county one of the 6 sub-counties that make up Mombasa County. 

Insider sources intimated that, 50 children attending the mission school are fully sponsored and are full time boarders at the facility’s dormitories. Trying to find out how the number rose from 6 to 350, it was informed that the friends who together helped to finance the facility used to advertise to the public and neighboring community about the availability of vacancies for orphans and/or less fortunate children that they are welcomed in the institution. The current director is called Mr. Harrison Gona. 

Visiting gooner from Ghana

Arsenal Kenya (host), alongside the visiting supporters club including Arsenal Tanzania, Arsenal Uganda, Arsenal Rwanda and Arsenal Ghana made generous contributions towards supporting the Mission school. Arsenal Zambia and Arsenal Zimbabwe though not represented physically equally sent out their contributions. The Nairobi branch treasurer, Mr. Stephen Gatimu confirmed that the total contributions made for the charity in the 3^rd edition was to a tune of over $700; part of which was used for budgeted expenses and the rest were to be banked to the Mission school’s account.

Personality of the Event

The only boy and a last born in a family of 4 children, TUYISENGE Bruno Leandre, the 25 year old Rwandan citizen; Operations Manager at Jibu Corporation (Kigali), was unopposedly named personality of the event persona at the Arsenal Africa’s annual Easter Festival in Mombasa Kenya, 

 TUYISENGE Bruno from Arsenal Rwanda

“…Is this Rwandan Gooner Bruno here? I think if there was an award for personality of the event he could have taken one. His enthusiasm while participating in every activity was up there…” said Dennis Njau, Arsenal Kenya President. It is from this comment that had made me do an up-close with Bruno.  

Being in the same SGR train with him en-route to Mombasa, and while I was taking photos of the contingent, I never seemed to master his name and on several occasions I kept asking him for the same. This ice breaker was what saw me speak to him for the first time and made me want to know more about him after the Mombasa trip. Here below is the excerpt of our tête-à-tête:

Lisa: Who is Bruno?
Bruno: I studied accounting but an engineer by training, currently working with Jibu Corporation. I have three sisters with many brothers (referring to his male cousins). My favorite drink is no doubt Mutzig and my best food has to be the Indian Chicken Biryani.
Lisa: Tell me a little more about Jibu Corporation.
Bruno: Jibu as a corporation is not only a business but also a family of opportunity to anyone who has a dream of becoming self-employed. Jibu exists in six (6) countries and has launched 75 franchises across the world. Jibu Motto is ‘don’t stress; drink Jibu water’. Any interested persons can check out our website at www.jibuco.com for more information.
Lisa: How do you feel after being named the personality of the event in the Arsenal Africa Mombasa edition?
Bruno: I feel motivated and it means that my trip was successful because I didn’t come to Kenya to just have fun; I also wanted to make sure I will be remembered for some good deeds. 

Lisa: How different was this charity from the rest that you have attended before?
Bruno: When the meals were being served, I did not like the idea that the children ate separately from the Arsenal fans. Instead the meals would have been served together and let the two groups mingle. Also, the fact that contributions made from different countries were not publicly announced in the charity in a way killed the spirit of contribution. By making known who contributed how much, in itself gives a positive motivation in challenging the different groups to want to outdo the other making it a healthy competition and the country with most contributions to walk tall with shoulders high.
Lisa: What’s your overall comment regarding the 3^rd Arsenal Africa festival, Mombasa edition?
Bruno: With a very good program tabled for the event, unfollowed planned activities, a little bit overpriced hotels and drink prices, disorganization, in a way tainted a well otherwise anticipated event that had over 40 Rwandans being in attendance. Because some people were working with fixed budgets, it proved a bit costly at some point. However, the charity activities, the hospitality, the warm reception and the friendly people made it all a worthwhile visit to Kenya.
Lisa: Will you attend the 4^th Edition of the Arsenal Africa Easter festivals planned for Kampala 2020?
Bruno: Yes I will be in Kampala.

Lisa: Why do you support Arsenal?

Bruno: Back in primary school we used to have championship competitions between teams, and we would name our teams based on names of soccer teams. I was always in team Arsenal and that’s how it all started.

Lisa: Who is your Arsenal favorite player?
Bruno: It has to be S. Carzola but he has since left. Nowadays my eyes are on Toreirra and Lacazette.

Memorable Moment

Et voila! Cupid, god of love favored us during this 3^rd edition! Someone got engaged and the cultural exchange is starting to bear fruits! Even though the fiancée and the fiancé were both Rwandan nationals, nonetheless we are happy to celebrate the union of Mr. Kenneth Ntaganda and Ms. Gwiza. A proposal from up in the blue skies thanks to RwandAir, to an engagement party at a famous beach club in the white sands of Mombasa Island graced with the beautiful waves rocking the salty waters of the Indian ocean, sure made all those in attendance believe it was a match made in heaven! It was an open affair and gooner friends were free to attend the after party. Sadly, there are no photos to compliment the beautiful moment but hey cheers to the newly engaged and we are wishing them a happy, blessed, long, marriage life with many children!

The attendees

It was nobly impressing to note that, as each year passes by, the number of participants attending the Arsenal Africa Easter Editions has been growing.  A total of over 200 arsenal fans graced the Mombasa edition for the 2019 Easter bonanza.

Rwanda:

Rwanda Arsenal fans at Elephant tusks, Mombasa

For the Mombasa edition, we had a record of over 40 travelling visitors who were in attendance.  The number would have been higher except for the border issues between Rwanda & Uganda that inconvenienced many of those who had wished to travel by road. From the 1^st edition in Dar Es Salaam 2017 to this 3^rd in Mombasa, Mr. Willy Kamanzi and Ms. Olive Owumariya have been the constant attendees. 

An observation about Rwandans? “…most Rwandans tend to keep to themselves and spoke a lot in their own local dialect; a non-Rwandan would have felt out place if in their midst…” a Kenyan, anonymously commented. This can be disputed as no research was carried out to ascertain the allegations. A source from the Rwandan team hinted that in the 4^th edition of Kampala 2020, there would have been upto 70 plus attendants owing to the proximity the two countries, but the Genocide Against Tutsi Commemoration week falling within that Easter period may gravely affect the numbers. The country of a Thousand Hills is fondly referred to as the 'Heart of Africa' by its citizens.

Tanzania:

13, is the total number of visitors from Tanzania who were in Mombasa. Notably, those in attendance were almost half the number of those who were in the second edition in Kigali, Rwanda 2018. Noticeably, there was no single lady from +255 who was in the 3^rd edition. 

Arsenal fans from Tanzania, at the Mission school in Mombasa

Usual suspects like Mboye, Matinya, Mboka, Jurgen, Machera, Juma, Don, Sam, Bepari, Kibbs, Muniko, were visibly in absentia. Trying to reach out to them, either work or family commitments formed part of the reason or the other why they never showed up. On the flip side it was refreshing to see new faces who were not in previous editions being in attendance. 

Moody and the rest we hope you keep up the spirit and never miss any future editions. Team TZ, we also strongly urge you to bring on-board more ladies the way you did in Kigali. We would like to see Joan, Hellen, Jacky, Irene, Aisha etc all being there come Kampala 2020.

Uganda:

Just like their good neighbor who borders them in the south, Uganda had 13 travelling gooners for the Mombasa edition. Similarly, there were no ladies from +256 who were present as well, a very stunning coincidence I must say. That notwithstanding, there was an increase of more than five(5) gooners compared to the number that went to Kigali, in the 2^nd edition. 

Uganda Arsenal fans maiden trip in an SGR

The presence of Dr. Hannington Mwesigye, Justus Baguma, Joseph Kavuma, Isaac Musasazi, Freddie Seruwu, Dennis Rwatooro, Ojwang Paul & Gabriel Kato, complimented the likes of Jacob Katumba, Meddie Bukenya, Mike Kagwa, David Agaba & Soule Kuteesa who were in the previous edition. 

As #TugendeKampala & #TulambuleUganda gains momentum, everyone else is looking forward to meeting Stellah, Allen, Atete, Phiona, a few of the many not listed Arsenal Uganda goonerettes who have been conspicuously absent since the first edition. 

For the Kampala 2020 4^th edition, we all hope Uganda will borrow good practices from the 1^st three editions and improve on the weak links to make Kampala edition one of its kind. Uganda, proudly refers to itself as The Pearl of Africa   

Ghana:

Ghana Arsenal fans aboard the SGR

Being the first West African nation to have its representation in the previously dubbed Arsenal East Africa Easter festivals, Mombasa edition was privileged to have Dickson Kojo and Bilkiss Mohammed (Kissu) in attendance. 

It will be noted that because of short notice, a lot of Ghanaians were not able to attend the Mombasa event but it is encouraging to note that a good number of them are hoping to be in Kampala, for the 4^th edition. 

Both Dickson and Kissu were in the country for more than a week and had an opportunity to visit different historical sites in both Nairobi and Mombasa. 

Dickson still considers Uganda as the best place to be in East Africa and he is definitely going back there soon. It is undoubtedly correct to say therefore, that he will be in attendance come the 4^th edition of the Arsenal Africa festivals in Kampala.

Zimbabwe:

Arsenal fans Zimbabwe at a past charity event

A confirmed number of 20 persons had been given for the contingent arriving from the South African nation Zimbabwe to attend the Mombasa edition. Hotels reserved and accommodation paid up for a month in advance, indicated that Stephen Ndungu, the official contact person for Zimbabwe team had his house in order to ensure he was not caught up in the Easter rush hour madness. 

Unfortunately, due to unavoidable reasons that cannot be mentioned here forth due to its sensitive nature, saw the whole Zimbabwe team cancel their safari to Kenya. Indeed a very devastating situation to the travelling fans and the host nation as well since it caused a lot of inconvenience to both parties. It is hoped that Zimbabwe will be in attendance in the forthcoming 4^th edition, come Easter of 2020.

Kenya:

They say ‘charity begins at home’, and without a doubt Kenya being the host nation of the 3^rd edition of the Arsenal Africa Easter festival had to lead by example. Unconfirmed report, indicated that there were approximately 120 Kenyans in the Mombasa event. During the 1^st edition, Kenya had around 25 representatives that visited Dar Es Salaam and over 50 participants who went to Kigali for the 2^nd edition. Because of Kenyans being just Kenyans and doing what they know best, a good number of those in the 1^st edition have been consistent during all the three editions. 

Kenya Arsenal fans at St Barnabas Mission school, Mombasa

Ann Nzau (Princess Anny), the famous keyboard warrior (pun intended) was not able to attend the Mombasa edition for known but ‘undisclosed reasons. Even in absentia, Anny and other individual persons were very helpful and Kissu and lots of other unmentioned visitors were grateful. 

Overall, the organizing committee, with the able leadership of Dennis Njau was however in charge of the event. Kenyans are forever indebted to all those that went against all odds to make the 3^rd edition a success. News flash is that; Kenyans will likely double the number that will be attending the Kampala 2020 edition, and the host nation better be ready to get overwhelmed.

Cultural Exchange - "...chased after her and made her mine"

'Don’t get it twisted love is a beautiful thing..’, the first sentence in the lyrics of D’banj’s (Nigerian renowned musician) song ‘fall in love’ takes me back to the story of Martin Murigu(Marto) and Vailet Aseka(Vaile). Their alias name is MartoVaile, a name formed by combining first name of Martin and Vailet, one which they put so much emphasis on and are fond of. I had a moment with them to find out more about their story. It’s amazing how cultural exchange is changing lives of Arsenal fans, day after the other.

MartoVaile, first photo together

“It all began on 29^th December 201-, Vaile recalls, “we had our usual Arsenal Kakamega branch Charity, took some photos and that’s when one of the branch members (name withheld) sent out my photo to a WhatsApp group where Marto is also a member. He saw my photo, and just like that he checked into my inbox. At first, I thought it was just a WhatsApp vibe, little did I know it was getting into me and the rest is history”, Vaile added.

Without blinking an eyelid, Marto was ready to reiterate what Vaile earlier told me. "We are a couple, real life couple, we do love each other”, Marto began. “I fell for her the day I saw her photo in a WhatsApp group, chased after her and made her mine. We love each other”, he affectionately said. Vaile who resides and works in Kakamega, a county in western Kenya and Marto, who is based in Mombasa because of work don’t seem to think distance has any impact in their relationship. She asserts that although she does miss him when he is away, to her distance is nothing ‘when someone is into the other’. She continues to say that they always find a way to cut out the distance.

MartoVaile, introduction party @Pontoon hotel, Mombasa

MartoVaile future plans? Marriage, maybe?  Marto answers in the affirmative and adds; “she was born for me and she is going nowhere, I am keeping her heart forever”. Vaile too is hopeful and says all in God’s time, they will cross the bridge when they get there. 

As I wrapped up, I asked each for a comment regarding the other. This is what they had to say; “Marto is my best friend, my confidant, I see a reflection of myself in him”, Vaile concluded. On his part Marto had this to say; “Vaile is my queen, my best friend, my rock, my world, the love of my life. She is my partner, my other half. I love her so much with everything that I am”. We wish the two lovebirds all the love this world has to offer. In the spirit of Arsenal let’s see what the future holds for the rest of us J. 

Real Heroes

Kenton Price (Kenny Price) who wore the Carilton Maina jersey labelled Number 1 in memory of the fallen Kenyan gooner who was shot dead by the police officers in Nairobi Kenya on 21st December 2018. Gone but not forgotten. Forever in our hearts. Continue Resting in Power Carilton Maina. 

Kenny Price (overlooking in an Arsenal jersey)

The late Carilton with Giroud

The late Carilton Maina was honored at the Emirates stadium in London during the Arsenal game against Cardiff city played on 29.01.2019.

 The slain university of Leeds engineering student was an ardent Arsenal supporter who severally attended home and away matches at the emirates while he studied at the University of Leeds. Carilton was a goalkeeper and was also described as a future leader and a role model KTN News, 29th January 2019 

To 'the Rwandan'; for the altercation with a Kenyan that took place inside the bus while on your way to check in at the hotel, 'chapeu' to you for the manly, mature way you handled the situation. Accept our apologies for damages caused and we would like to let you know that Kenyans are very friendly people and whatever happened should never have.

All those who cooked, cleaned, did shopping and helped in serving at the mission school.

All those who came through for our visitors in one way or another.

All those who contributed funds towards making the event a success.

All those who sacrificed their time and money to grace the occasion.

All those who extended their hospitality in their homes and hosted our visitors for a night or two.

And of course our official photographers Ken Wambua & Billy Mulure

We say Asante / Medaase / Weebale Nnyo / Murakoze / Merci / thank you!

Special thanks to: Kabatesi Immaculee, Butera Jesus, Adrian Mbanda, Edgar(rw) Valerie Kerubo, Dickson Kojo, Stephen Ndungu, Joan(ke), Dennis Njau, Stephen Gatimu, Bruno Leandre,  Stephen Matinya, Meshack(tz) & Kulwa(tz). 

Everyone is by now looking forward to the Kampala Edition planned for 2020 with the host being Arsenal Uganda. The hashtag created is #TugendeKampala2020, #TulambuleUganda2020 and the hosts already promise a thrilling, high profile never seen before event.
See you in Kampala 2020, for the 4^th edition of the Arsenal Africa Easter festivals!

#TugendeKampala2020!
#TulambuleUganda2020!

Stay tuned for teaser articles on the Pearl of Africa.

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