Kampala is the capital and largest city of Uganda, a landlocked country in East Africa. It is also the cultural, economic and political hub of the country, hosting the seat of government, the parliament and the headquarters of many businesses and organizations. Kampala is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, with a population of about 3.5 million people in 2021, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa. The city is divided into five administrative divisions: Kampala Central, Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa and Rubaga. Each division has its own unique character, history and attractions.
The diversity of Kampala’s people
Kampala’s people are diverse and multicultural, reflecting the rich ethnic and linguistic diversity of Uganda as a whole. The city is home to dozens of ethnic groups, the most widely spoken language in Kampala is Luganda, the native language of the Baganda people who are the largest ethnic group in the city and in Uganda. However, English is the official language of Uganda and is widely used in education, business and administration. Swahili is also an official language of Uganda and is spoken by some people in Kampala, especially the business community and those who have migrated from other East African countries.
Kampala’s people are also diverse in terms of religion. Christianity is among the dominant religions in the city, with a sizeable portion of the population identifying as Christians. There are also other denominations such as, Orthodox Christians, Jehovah’s Witnesses & Seventh-day Adventists. Islam is also among the dominant religions in Kampala, with a large portion of the population identifying as Muslims. Most Muslims are Sunnis, but there are also some Shias and Ahmadiyyas. Other religions practiced in Kampala include Hinduism, Buddhism, Bahá’à Faith and traditional African religions.
Kampala’s people are hard workers who are eager to tap into available opportunities to improve their lives and contribute to their city’s development. Some of the opportunities include education, entrepreneurship, innovation, culture and tourism.
What to do in Kampala
Kampala is the capital and largest city of Uganda, located on the shores of Lake Victoria. It is also the historical and cultural center of the Buganda kingdom, one of the oldest and most influential kingdoms in East Africa. Kampala offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors, from historical sites and museums to markets and religious buildings. Here are some of the best things to do in Kampala:
Visit Twekobe Palace,
The official residence of the king of Buganda. Built in 1885 by King Mwanga II, the palace is a symbol of the Buganda’s royal heritage and culture. You can see the palace’s elegant facade, as well as the underground prison where political opponents were tortured and killed during Idi Amin’s regime. The palace is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm (Entry Fee required)
Explore Nakasero Market;
One of the oldest and busiest markets in Kampala. Located in the heart of the city, the market is a colorful and lively place where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, clothes, souvenirs, and more. You can also interact with the friendly vendors and learn about their products and stories. The market is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm.
Pay your respects at Kasubi Tombs
The burial site of four kings of Buganda. The tombs are located on Kasubi Hill, a sacred place for the Baganda people. The main attraction is the Muzibu Azaala Mpanga, a large circular structure made of organic materials such as reeds, grass, and bark cloth. The structure houses the royal drums and other significant royal regalia. The tombs are also a place of worship and rituals for the Baganda. The site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001 but was partially destroyed by a fire in 2010. Restoration efforts are ongoing, and visitors can still see some parts of the site. The tombs are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm (Entry Fee is required)
Learn about Uganda’s history and culture at Uganda Museum
The oldest museum in East Africa. Opened in 1908, the museum has five galleries that display exhibits on archaeology, ethnography, natural history, musicology, and art. You can see ancient tools, weapons, pottery, musical instruments, costumes, masks, sculptures, paintings, and more. You can also visit the outdoor village that showcases traditional architecture from different regions of Uganda. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. (Entry Fee required)
Admire the Uganda National Mosque,
Also known as Gaddafi National Mosque or Old Kampala Mosque. It is the largest mosque in Uganda and one of the largest in Africa, with a capacity of 35,000 worshippers. The mosque was completed in 2006 with funding from Libya’s former leader Muammar Gaddafi as a gift to Uganda’s Muslim community. The mosque has a stunning architecture that combines Arabic and African elements. The highlight is the 65-meter-high minaret that offers panoramic views of Kampala city. You can take a guided tour of the mosque and climb up the minaret for a small fee. The mosque is open to visitors daily from 9 am to 7 pm except during prayer times.
Enjoy nature and water activities at Lake Victoria,
The largest tropical lake in the world and the source of the Nile River. Lake Victoria covers an area of 68,800 square kilometers and borders Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. It is home to diverse wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, birds, fish, and more. You can take a boat cruise on the lake and visit some of its islands such as Ngamba Island where you can see rescued chimpanzees at a sanctuary or Ssese Islands where you can relax at beach resorts. You can also go fishing, kayaking, sailing, or swimming in the safer areas of the lake.
These are just some of the many tourist attractions that Kampala has to offer. Whether you are interested in history, culture, religion, or nature, you will find something that suits your taste in this vibrant city. Call us Today to arrange for your Kampala City Tour.
