LANGUAGE

There are over 56 dialects spoken in Uganda which is a reflection of Uganda's multi-tribal society. English is the official language and most Ugandan's are able to communicate fluently in English. All media and business is in English and most Ugandans speak it fairly well. Swahili is the next most commonly understood language, followed by Luganda.

CULTURE

Uganda's population is made up of a complex and diverse range of tribes. Lake Kyoga forms the northern boundary for the Bantu-speaking peoples, who dominate much of east, central and southern Africa. In Uganda they include the Buganda and several other tribes. In the north live the Lango and the Acholi, who speak Nilotic languages. To the east are the Teso and Karamojong, who are related to the Maasai and who also speak Nilotic languages. Pygmies live in the forests of the west.

Each tribe has its musical history; songs are passed down from generation to generation. Ndigindi (lyre), entongoli (harp), amadinda (xylophone) and lukeme (thumb piano) are commonly played instruments. An Acholi, Okot p'Bitek, is one of Uganda's most famous writers of folklore, satirical poems and songs. His book Song of Lawino (1966) describes the stories told in Acholi songs.

While about two-thirds of the population is Christian, the remaining third still practises animism or follows Islam. There were sizeable numbers of Sikhs and Hindus in the country until Asians were expelled in 1972, although many are now returning following an invitation from the president.

For the most part, Ugandan cuisine consists of a stodge filler with beans or a meat sauce. Main dishes are usually centred on beef, goat or mutton and the starch comes from ugali, or maize meal. Ugali is cooked up into a thick porridge until it sets hard. It's then served up in flat bricks. If that doesn't sound appealing, the country's tropical climate contributes to a healthy choice of fruits. Something you don't come across very often but which makes an excellent snack meal is mkate mayai (bread eggs). Originally an Arab dish, it's wheat dough spread into a thin pancake, filled with minced meat and raw egg, and then folded into a neat parcel and fried on a hotplate. Beer is probably the most widely available commodity across Uganda. Pombe is a locally made fermented banana beer and waragi the local millet-based alcohol. Both can knock you around and give you a mean hangover.

Getting around

Public transport

There is no public transport service so to speak, but there is an extensive network of minibus or Matatu's that will take you to wherever you want to go, but only when all seats in the van are full. They are a quick means of transport, and convenient as they stop and pick up wherever you want them to, just yell "mu maaso awo," or "bw'ofuna parking awo," and the driver will stop for you. There is a law against overloading, and both drivers, and passengers are liable for the fine. There is also a fleet of "special hire" taxis that carry you to wherever you want. they are substantially more expensive than the matatu's.

Also, there is a much more convinient of travel. Motor Cyclist operators known as boda-boda who will get you to any destination, even right to your doorstep.

The EMS postal bus service which is managed by Uganda Posts Ltd. offers efficient, reliable and affordable means of transport to all major towns in the country.

Road Conditions
Getting to the remotest area of Uganda is not only possible, but is usually uncomplicated. Our fast-growing network of over 2,000 km of tarred roads is supplemented by over 6,000 km of high quality murram (dirt) roads, and feeder routes. If driving yourself, it is recommended that drivers take local advice regarding the time a journey may take, and the possible need for four-wheel drive. Fuel stations are available in all main towns, and on many major routes. However, if driving long distances, or on safari, it is advisable to take spare fuel, and to confirm the location of fuel stations. A good road map is essential and these are available from the Tourist Board in Kimathi Ave, Kampala.

Uganda has an extensive road network, of sealed and unsealed roads. Traffic drives on the left side. The major highways are two lane class 6 roads. Driving in Uganda is quite an experience, and probably the best way to see the country. One however has to be cautious of Pedestrians, Cyclists, wildlife and Livestock on all roads. Good bitumen roads exist between all major towns. The speed limit is 80kmh.

The major entry point into Uganda by road is from Kenya via either Malaba, or Busia. The journey from Nairobi can be made by car, or bus and takes between 7 and 12 hours. The other frequently used entry point is at Kisoro at the Uganda / Rwanda Border.

While driving in Uganda the following documentation is required at all times: a) Vehicle registration book b) Vehicle certificate of Insurance (Heavy fines are imposed for driving an uninsured vehicle) c) International or Domestic drivers license Note: Commercial vehicles not registered in Uganda require a permit to operate in Uganda. See Motoring in Uganda

International Flights
From Europe:
SN Brussels flies four times a week from Brussels direct to Entebbe.
British Airways flies three times a week from London, Gatwick.

From other parts of Africa:
Kenya Airways flies daily from Nairobi.
Uganda Airlines provides connections from Dar-es-Salam, Kigali Bujumbura, Harare and Gaborone.
South Airways provides connections with Dar-es- Salam and Johannesburg.
Egypt flies weekly from Cairo.
Ethiopian airways provides connections from Addis Ababa.
Air Tanzania provides connections from Dar-es-salam
Alliance Express flies from Kigali to the Middle East.
Africa One provides connections from Dubai.
Emirates flies twice a week from Dubai.

Accommodation

Uganda has a wide range of standards when it comes to places to stay - from five star hotels and first class luxury lodges, to rustic bush camps, guesthouses and campsites. Foreigners must pay in hard currency except for the smaller guesthouses. Not all of the small town hotels are equipped to take travellers cheques or credit cards. Be aware of the ‘extra’s’ added onto your bill - 10% service charge and 20% VAT (1995) See Listings for Hotels or Game Lodges or see the "Where to stay" options at each destination.

When to Go

The best time to visit Uganda is late December to late February, as the weather at this time of year is generally dry (though hot). A close second is the mid-June to mid-August period. However you can still get around outside of these dry tropical months.

Just like in any other urban city elsewhere, visitors to Kampala are advised not to make themselves obvious target and do not carry large sums of cash in the streets.

Climate
Uganda enjoys ideal weather conditions, ranging from the warmth of the lowland areas and lakeshores to the coolness of the highlands... Temperatures range between 21C; and 25C. The rains are mainly between March and May, and October arid November.

What to pack

Uganda has mild winters and the summer days can get quite hot. Lightweight casual clothes can be worn all year round, with a jacket or jersey for early winter mornings and evenings. On safari keep clothes to a minimum and mostly of neutral colouring - khakis, browns and greens. A sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellant are a must.