By: Adrian Baldwin
US: Many foreigners go to Uganda and think it is good for various reasons. Uganda offers a rich cultural experience, with diverse tribes, languages, and traditions.
The country is also known for its stunning natural beauty, including national parks with abundant wildlife and the majestic Nile River. Additionally, Uganda has a stable political climate and a growing economy, making it an attractive destination for investment and business opportunities.
As a black American who visited Uganda for ten days last year, I personally experienced the warmth and hospitality of the Ugandan people, which further contributes to its positive reputation among foreigners.
The country has many positive aspects, but it is not without its flaws.
During my first trip to the continent, I chose to visit a sub-Saharan country that was known for its safety and peacefulness. Rwanda was my first stop, and I was captivated by its beauty and charm.
However, my expectations for Uganda to be similar were proven wrong. Unlike many tourists who only visit the national parks, I was determined to immerse myself in the local culture and connect with the people. I can confidently say that Uganda exceeded my expectations in this regard.
The good things I love about Uganda
- The Food
The food in Uganda may have limited variety, but it is undeniably great. Every dish I tasted was incredibly fresh, like the chicken I had in a village, which was slaughtered moments before being cooked and served. It was the best chicken I’ve ever had. I also discovered that sweet potatoes are actually supposed to be sweet, and the ones I ate in Uganda were delicious. The greens I had were cooked to perfection and tasted even better than my mother’s, which I used to love before going to Uganda. If you’re a fan of organic food, Uganda is the place to be.
2. Hospitality
The hospitality is overwhelming and Uganda should be considered one of the most hospitable places on earth. People welcomed me with open arms and took it as an insult if I didn’t eat the food even though I was very full. Some of the younger ladies greeted me by kneeling which I found a little odd but I guess it’s a cultural thing.
3. The Ladies
Honestly speaking they are just gorgeous. Most of them are very curvy and feminine. A lot of them are also very smart and extremely hard-working. No matter what their situation is they are going to present themselves well and I found them easier to connect with than most of the ladies in the U.S.
4. Nature
Uganda, with its size and diversity, stands out as a country with an exceptional range of wildlife. Boasting 10 national parks, it offers a haven for animal enthusiasts. Notably, Uganda is home to the rare silverback gorillas, which can be observed in their natural habitat.
The Bad things I didn’t understand or disappointed me about my visit.
- Pollution
Upon arriving in Entebbe and driving to Kampala, I was immediately struck by the abundance of trash lining the streets. At first, I assumed that there must be a regular street cleaning service, but as time went on, it became clear that this was the norm. I was shocked when I witnessed a bus conductor casually tossing a trash can onto the road.
Additionally, the air pollution in Kampala was alarmingly high, largely due to the prevalence of old or outdated vehicles that emitted significant amounts of CO2. It was disheartening to learn that many of these vehicles were second-hand imports from China.
3. Traffic/ Transportation
Public transportation in Kampala, particularly the taxi system, proved to be unreliable, uncomfortable, and confusing. As a seasoned traveller, I prefer using public transportation whenever possible. However, the taxi system in Kampala fell short of my expectations. Additionally, the motorbikes in the city were capable of carrying an astonishing amount of cargo, but I would advise caution when using them.
4 Infrastructure
During my trip to Uganda, I came across a rather disheartening aspect. The state of infrastructure in the country left much to be desired.
While the construction of the River Nile Bridge brought some hope, it was evident that there was still a long way to go. The majority of the roads were in a dilapidated and unpaved condition, posing significant challenges for transportation.
Additionally, the need for a functional national electric grid and improved water treatment facilities was apparent. It became clear that Uganda has a substantial amount of work ahead in these areas.
During my time there, I developed a deep affection for the country. In fact, I even found love and became engaged while I was there. I have high expectations for the future of the country and eagerly anticipate my return.