Best of Uganda vol 1 by Sven Boermeester

UGANDA G l o b a l V i l l a g e . w o r l d V o l u m e 1

BEST of UGANDA

VO L U M E 1

As part of the international ‘Best of series’ from Global Village Partnerships, ‘Best of Uganda’ is a business-driven publication that promotes the country’s leading companies, entrepreneurs and organisations. Our aim is to showcase Uganda to Africa and ultimately the world. This is the go-to publication for anyone interested in the country and offers a succinct guide to both business and leisure offerings. By featuring government institutions, the best companies, entrepreneurs and business leaders in each industry, a clear picture of the very best of Uganda is presented. There is an indelible hope for the future evident amongst the Ugandan people. Uganda’s unique history allows an insight into the perseverance of her people and the dark shadows within this history only serve to further illuminate just how bright the future is in contrast. The ‘Best of Uganda’ allows us an opportunity to share this story through sharing the vision of the country, its beliefs and values, as well as its successes and opportunities. Uganda is East Africa’s tourism hub. It has a distinctive attraction as a tourist destination with its unspoiled scenic beauty comprising of splendid national game parks, verdant forests, rolling hills and mountains, as well as brimming rivers and lakes. Uganda is home to more than half of Africa’s bird population and thus one of the leading bird watching destinations in the world. It’s most priceless attribute is its status as home to over 50% of the world’s known population of mountain gorillas. The country also boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, two of them are National Parks (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Rwenzori Mountains National Park), and the other is a cultural site (Kasubi Tombs). All three of them are amazing places that are a must visit for those coming to Uganda. Uganda’s rich natural heritage and fertile land has allowed for flourishing mineral and agricultural sectors. Uganda is among the leading producers of coffee, bananas, tropical fruits and seed oil crops. It also has large under-exploited mineral deposits of gold, oil, and high grade tin, amongst others. Discovery of extractable quantities of oil and gas in the Albertine Graben region has revived the sector. Uganda’s ICT sector is one of the most vibrant and the fastest growing sectors in the economy. This vibrancy hinges largely on the country’s solid legal and regulatory frameworks. The country is now connected to three marine fibre optic cables running around the Eastern Africa coast in the Indian Ocean. Uganda is thus positioning itself to be the hub for the Business Processing and Management Outsourcing industry within the region. Uganda’s Vision 2040 aims to transform Ugandan society from humble beginnings to a modern and prosperous country. Target sectors for this transformation include oil and gas, tourism, ICT Business, minerals, agriculture and industrialisation. Other opportunities include an abundant

and willing labour force, its prime geographical location for trade and abundance of water resources. We are therefore excited to bring to you the first edition of ‘Best of Uganda’ with the ultimate goal of branding Uganda for investment, tourism and leisure. ‘Best of Uganda’ crisply profiles key government achievements, successes, leading companies and innovators within their genre. This legacy project is a compilation of what the country can be proud of and shares its success stories on a lasting global platform. Both ‘Global Village World’ and ‘Proudly African’ provide an accessible online home to our publications on both an international and African level. We aim at celebrating the successes of countries, individuals and companies with ‘good news’ editorial and pictorial imagery in the highest quality print. Our websites, together with issuu.com, host the online e-books with over 7 million hits per year. Our sincere appreciation goes to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and the participants showcased in our very first edition; representing the ‘Best of’ in their respective fields. We have profiled these individuals, companies and organisations in celebration of their success - promoting Uganda throughout Africa and the world. We trust that you will be enriched by ‘Best of Uganda’ Volume 1. The ‘Best of’ Series Brand Global Village Partnerships is an international media company with regional head offices across the world. Our publications highlight and connect the world’s top brands and companies through the ‘Best of’ books series in both online and print formats. The online platform at GlobalVillage.world connects many nations, regions and territories to others across the world. Started in 2005, the “Best of” publications have grown to become a global series printed in 60 countries and territories worldwide. The “Proudly African” umbrella is part of a stable which houses all “Best of” publications. The Africa region, produced by GVPedia Communications, has attracted the fastest growth in these publications and there are more than 20 ongoing titles under construction. ‘Best of Uganda’ will be housed under this powerful umbrella – maximising on trade relations within Africa, other sub-Saharan nations and ultimately the world. This business-to-business coffee table book on Uganda is a powerful corporate network with controlled distribution to directly reach top government, business and private decision makers.

Best of Uganda

CREDITS Uganda Publishing Partner

Incredible Uganda Ltd

International Group Publisher

Sven Boermeester

Incredible Uganda Ltd

Proudly African Publisher

Project Manager, Production &

Edgar Agaba & Maureen Kasande Thapelo Letsholo

African Group Publisher

Gia Bischofberger

Managing Editor

Rebecca Lovett

Production & Publishing House Creative Direction

GVPedia Communications cc Peter Batistich, Deep Fried Designs

GVPedia Communications cc PO Box 5289 Dainfern North 2174 Fax: +27 86 586 1999 Email: gia@gvpedia.com / info@gvpedia.com www.ProudlyAfrican.info www.GlobalVillage.world Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in ‘Best of Uganda’ vol.1. Neither ‘Best of Uganda’, Incredible Uganda Ltd, nor GVPedia Communications cc assume any responsibility for errors, omissions nor submissions by participators. The editor reserves the right to amend and alter copy and visual material as deemed necessary. All rights reserved: No part of this publication shall be reproduced, copied, transmitted, adapted or modified in any form or by any means. Intellectual Property belongs to GVPedia Communications cc. This publication shall not be stored in whole or in part in any form in any retrieval system. Contact details: Incredible Uganda Ltd Email: edgar.a@gvpedia.com Email: maureen.k@gvpedia.com

Sven Boermeester

Thapelo Letsholo

Gia Bischofberger

Edgar Agaba

Best of Uganda

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

Page 86

Page 78

ECONOMY

BANKING & FINANCE

CHAPTER 4

CHAPTER 3

Page 54

Page 44

CONTENTS

Best of Uganda

INVESTMENT

OIL & GAS

CHAPTER 6 CHAPTER 8

Page 118

Page 94 CHAPTER 5

HOTELS & LODGES

CHAPTER 7

TRAVEL, TOURS & AVIATION

Page 150

Page 132

NATIONAL PARKS

DINING, NIGHTLIFE & BREWERIES

Best of Uganda

View of Murchison Falls on the Victoria Nile

Best of Uganda

STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA at the Uganda International Conference Centre, Serena, Kampala 6th June, 2017 His Excellency the Vice President, Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, His Lordship the Chief Justice, Rt. Hon. Speaker of EALA, Rt. Hon. Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Deputy Prime Ministers, Rt. Hon. Leader of the Opposition, The Religious Leaders, Their Highnesses the Traditional Leaders, Hon. Ministers, Hon. Members of Parliament, Hon. Members of EALA, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen. Greetings, Madam Speaker, in fulfillment of the Constitutional requirement under article 101 (1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, I am here to deliver the State of the Nation Address, 2017. Madam Speaker and Hon. Members of Parliament, on the Eighth of June 2017, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, will present to this August House and the entire Nation, the Budget for FY 2017/2018. He will detail what has been achieved and what we intend to achieve in the coming Financial Year. Since the last State of the Nation address, a number of Ugandans, including former Ministers and Members of Parliament, have departed from this earth. I extend my condolences to their families and to the entire country. Let us stand up for a minute of silence in their memory. On this occasion of the State of the Nation Address, I will just summarize what the NRM was telling the population during the elections of last year. The NRM was telling the country that in order to guarantee prosperity of our country, we need to remember five issues. These five are: peace; development of the infrastructure and the human resource; wealth creation; jobs creation; and market access. Sometimes, we package them differently as the ten strategic bottlenecks. Peace means absence of war but it must also include absence of lawlessness. The NRA/UPDF has ensured peace in the country by defeating Kony, ADF and disarming the cattle rustlers in Karamoja. The UPDF has the capacity to ensure that nobody disturbs the peace of Uganda. However, as you saw recently, there has been a spike of lawlessness in the country involving the murder of AIGP Kaweesi, Sheikhs, Major Kiggundu, Joan Kagezi, Chairman Okware

in Namayingo, Rwamutwe in Bushenyi, the town clerk of Gulu, the Eritrean businessman, etc. There were also numerous break-ins in homes and some people were throwing leaflets threatening violence. In Mukono, there was the increased stealing of vanilla from the gardens. Some people started panicking. When I went to the home of the late Kawesi, I told you of the gaps that were still in our law and order architecture. These gaps were unattended to until recently, not because they were not known, but because of lack of funding on account of competing demands.

Best of Uganda

Here, I am talking of the technical means for the Police Force and the counterterrorism capacity of the country. Without going into details, I can, as an example, point out to the Hon. Members the absence of cameras in the towns and the highways. These gaps put alot of burden on the CID to discover the one that committed the crime depending on eye-witnesses and other clues. The cameras would hasten the identification of anybody who commits a crime in the towns or the highways. This is a gap I have given instructions to close. Meanwhile, the rich businessmen and residents that can afford should install cameras around their businesses and residences. They greatly assist. The Police will also acquire greater forensic technical capacity, the details of which I would not like to go into here. Using the limited means available to the Police, in the form of Police dogs to detect explosives, scanners, metal detectors, etc., the Police backed by the UPDF, when there is good planning, can guarantee security against any lawless or terrorist actions. The recent peaceful holding of the Martyrs Day, where an estimated 3 million people turned up, shows that Police and the UPDF already have good capacity, the gaps already mentioned notwithstanding. To successfully guard such a large, pre-announced event, or the visit of the Pope a few years ago, shows that the Police and the sister agencies have acquired some capacity. Nevertheless, the Police and the intelligence services have been rightly criticized by the public for being lax in handling information given to them by the public, sometimes leaking this information, corruption in the form of extorting money from the public, high-handedness in dealing with the public

Best of Uganda

and protecting criminals or allowing criminals to infiltrate the Police. The Police leadership must, therefore, carefully listen to the public and clean up the few rotten elements. Otherwise, I can inform the public that, ever since 1980, when we started recruiting educated people into that force, the Police have got a very large number of capable cadres. Those who taint their hand with hobnobbing with criminals will only let themselves down. The Police Force will continue to grow stronger as it was planned to do by the UNLF in 1980 of which we were a part of and, subsequently, by the NRM ever since 1986. The Police do not have to wait for the crime to be committed. Through good intelligence, most crimes can be prevented. Most of the suspects arrested after the murder of Kawesi and others, even if they were not involved in the killing of Kawesi, had committed other capital offences, many of which carry death sentences or life imprisonment. Why, then, were they still in circulation? That means somebody was not doing his or her work. The attempt by the criminals to cause rural scare by throwing leaflets, stealing vanilla from the gardens, occasional murders and rape, is easier to deal with because the villages are not as congested as the towns. Indeed, 78 suspects have been arrested for being involved in crime in the Masaka and Mpigi areas. Our massive security apparatus comprised of the Police, the crime preventers and the UPDF, with very little mobilization, can easily handle that village thuggery.

of the mind” rather than just the “Policeman of the body”. I saw some NGOs and allied persons pouring scorn on my methods and recommending only fascist methods of arrests and imprisonment without education. Could these “experts ineverything” tell us why the UPDF is able to operate in Somalia, Central African Republic, Congo, South Sudan, etc. without complaining? Is it because of high pay or fear of imprisonment? Do these “know-it-alls” remember that our Army is a volunteer Army? Do they know that one can make much more money in the private sector than in the army? Let the “know-it-alls” be informed that the UPDF does what it does because of conviction. Okunyonyora (to explain, to sensitize) has been the life and blood of Fronasa, of the NRA, of the UPDF. To end this point, be informed that Uganda is free of war and it will remain so and the spike in lawlessness is being defeated even before we fill all the gaps and will be totally defeated when the gaps are filled. Uganda will be like in one old song of the Banyankore which went as follows: “Muyogo na Muyuumbu ei abaana bariisa ente” ─ Muyogo and Muyuumba (parts of present-day Ntungamo) were so peaceful that children were brave enough to look after cattle because there was no threat.

The other day, I was in Kalerwe and the youth there were complaining of the Police arresting them for being “idle and disorderly”. This must stop completely. Some of the youth are idle because they do not have jobs. Why arrest them for that? The revolutionary should be like “fish in water”. A revolutionary should never be “fish in no water”. You should never talk harshly to the people. Always maintain a harmonious relationship with the people. I started relating with the youth in Kampala in 1968, in Katwe. The NRM cadres in Kampala have not properly followed the earlier work of Fronasa in Kampala. Our first NRA Commander, Ahmed Seguya, was from Katwe. I had trained him in Mozambique in 1971-72. The issue of alleged torture by the Police was addressed by myself in the usual NRM/NRA way. We always combine educational methods (sensitization) and administrative methods (punishments, demotions, etc.) When these reports came up, I carried out analysis of torture and how it, actually, impedes successful investigations. In a letter dated 15th of May, 2017, I sent that analysis to all the leaders of security agencies. That is a very powerful message because it addresses the whys and the why-nots of an issue. It addresses the “Policeman

When it comes to the second issue, the development of the infrastructure and the human resource, I want to inform the Ugandans that here we are talking about the physical infrastructure (roads, electricity, water-works, the railway, the telephones, etc.) and developing our human resource through education and improved health. The development of the infrastructure is so crucial because, as I have told you numerous times, it lowers the costs of doing business in the economy and, therefore, maximizes the profits of companies. Lower costs of electricity, transport, etc., means higher profits for the entrepreneurs. I want to salute the Parliament of 2006 and the subsequent Parliaments. They saw and supported the logic of boosting expenditure on roads from Shs. 398 billion in 2005/2006 to the present level of Shs. 3,442 billion. In the coming budget, the roads will take Shs. 4,800 billion. On account of this and in spite of the corruption, just using government of Uganda money, we have tarmacked the following roads: KampalaMityana; Kampala-Masaka; Kampala-Kafu-Karuma-Gulu; JinjaKamuli; Iganga-Kaliro; Tororo-Mbale-Soroti; Ishaka-Kagaamba; Mbarara-Kikagate; Matugga-Semuto; etc,. These are roads that are already finished. In addition, solely using Uganda government funds, we are in the process of tarmacking the following roads: Mpigi-Kanoni-Sembabule-Villa Maria; MusitaMayuge-Namayingo-Majanji-Busia; Soroti-Katakwi-Moroto; Olwiyo-Anaka-Gulu-Kitgum-Musingo; Nakapiripirit-NamaluMuyembe; Mubende-Kakumiro-Kibaale-Kagadi-Ndaiga; Nyakahita-Ibanda-Kamwengye-Fort Portal, etc., etc.

Best of Uganda

All these and the others not mentioned are being done solely with the Uganda Government money. There are other roads being done with the support from the international institutions but most of the time with co-funding from GOU. These are: Gulu-Atiak-Bibia; Kiguumba-Masindi-Hoima-Kagadi-Kyenjojo; Ntungamo-Mirama hill; Rukungiri-Kihiihi-Ishasha-Kanungu-Rugyeyo-Nyakisheenyi; RwenkunyuMasindi Port-Apac-Lira-Puranga-Acholibur; Kapchorwa-Suam; Mbale-MagaleLwakhaha; Tirinyi-Pallisa-Kumi; etc. Some of the roads that were internationally funded are already finished and they include: Fort Portal-Bundibugyo; MbararaKabaale-Katuna; Kabale-Kisoro-Bunagana-Kyanika; etc. The World Bank wants to help us re-tarmack, strengthen and widen Tororo-Mbale-Soroti-Lira-Kamudini road. I am most grateful to the international partners for this solidarity. However, the Ugandans financing their own projects, gives me alot of satisfaction. It is a good harbinger of the good things to come. What is happening in the sector of roads is replicated in the sector of electricity. Using the Uganda Government money from the Energy Fund, we have supported the expansion of generation of power e.g. in Nyagak where the licensed developer could not complete the project but, especially, in the area of building transmission lines. Using Uganda Government money, we have extended transmission lines to the following areas: Kakumiro, Kibaale, Kagadi, Muhorro – Muziizi tea factory to Kyenjojo; Kanungu-Rugyeyo tea factory; Rukungiri-Kanungu; Mpanga small hydro-Kamwenge-Kahungye and Kahungye sub-station; Buseruka small hydro-Hoima; Kyabugimbi-Buhweju tea factory; Kakumiro-Birembo-Nalweyo; Sironko-Nakapiripirit-Amudat; SorotiAmuria; Napak-Moroto; Katine-Lwala-Kaberamaido; Amolatar-Dokolo; KatakwiNapak-Moroto; Mbale-Bufumbo-Bukonde-Manafa-Lwakhaha border post; BugiriWakawaka landing site; Kamuli-Bukungu landing site; Kitgum-Padibe-KitgumParabek; Lira-Aloi-Apala; Ibanda-Kabujogyera-Kamwengye; Bukwiri-Kyenkwanzi; Kayunga-Busana; Muhanga-Kamwezi; etc., etc. The proportion of the population that now has electricity is 20.4% compared to 4% in 1986. Transport, as already pointed out in respect of the roads, is another cost pusher when it comes to business. A 40ft container costs USD$ 3500 from Mombasa to Kampala by road compared to USD 1,500 by rail when the standard gauge railway is ready and will only take one day. A similar container on the Peking (Beijing) Shanghai line would cost US$1,500 for transport. That is why we are working for the standard gauge railway. It is in order to lower the costs of doing business in our economy so that we attract more businesses. The ICT issue is now addressed since we completed the ICT backbone. The cost of telephones and internet use should go down compared to what it was when we were using the satellites. I am here, therefore, to inform the Ugandans that the NRM has been working systematically to make Uganda a low cost economy in terms of electricity, transport and ICT connections. The labour is cheap. The only expensive element we need to deal with, is the cost of money ─ in terms of interest rates. This will be solved by capitalizing the Uganda Development Bank (UDB). This coming year, the Treasury put Uganda Shs. 50 billion in the Uganda Development Bank. Having dealt with the cost pushers on the infrastructure and financial side, we need to report on what we have done on the human resource side. The population of Uganda was 14 million in 1986. It is now 40 million. Why has it grown so much and so quickly? Answer: peace and immunization. I hope the new leadership in the Ministry of Health will, at last, implement the NRM strategy on health. Our strategy has always been based on prevention rather than cure. The measures of prevention, other than immunization, include: nutrition, hygiene, clean water, behavior change, anti-malaria measures and a responsible lifestyle (no obesity, no alcoholism, etc). The literacy rate is already 75%. What we are going to work on is more and more skills. The high literacy rate is from the expanded education system ─ a total of 3,858 Secondary schools (government and private), a total of 19,718 Primary schools (government and private), a total number of 142 Technical and other Tertiary Institutions (government and private) and a total of 45 Universities (government and private). It is issue three that is still a problem. We still have a big proportion of people who are not engaged in wealth creation and those who are so engaged, are doing so sub-optimally ─ not fully utilizing the potential of their assets. Two examples can show the magnitude of the under-utilization. 16

Best of Uganda

Dr. Muranga at Nyaruziinga is now harvesting 53 metric tonnes of bananas per hectare per year. Her neighbours, the Banyankore, are only harvesting 5 tonnes. There are 1 million fresian cattle and crossbreeds in Uganda today. If each one was producing 20 litres of milk per day, our dairy production would stand at 6.5 billion litres per year, assuming 30% of the fresian herd would be milking at any given time. Yet our total milk yield is still at 2 billion litres per annum. We are, of course, congratulating ourselves because it rose from 200 million litres in 1986. However, if we encouraged all the farmers with the fresian cattle and the cross-breeds to weed out all those cattle that do not yield a minimum of 20 litres per day but consume pasture, we would easily hit the 10 billion litres per annum like Holland. There are four sectors of wealth clusters: agriculture, industry, services and ICT. Uganda today has got a huge number of young people. How pleasing it is to see them!! The only problem is that so many of them do not have either wealth or jobs (obugaga oba emirimu). Yet Uganda is enriching other countries by excessively importing products and services that your own children could produce if assisted by the State. I have already done my small experimentation. How much furniture does Uganda import from China and Dubai? How many pairs of shoes does Uganda import from outside? How many metres of textile does Uganda import? How much pharmaceutical units does Uganda import? How much vaccines for humans and livestock

does Uganda import? How much glass, how much fertilizers, how much steel? How many auto-mobiles, how many motorcycles? How many, even, bicycles? How much processed coffee and processed fruits? How many TVs, how many radios, how many computers? Is it a wonder that many of our young people neither have jobs nor wealth? The answer is that we have donated both the wealth and the jobs to the outsiders. By importing so much from outside, even items that we can cheaply make ourselves, we are massively supporting the prosperity of others and undermining our own. When I talk of imports, do not think that I am confining myself to importsubstitution only. I have never been in that category. Apart from the internal market, we must also target the regional and the international markets. What I am saying is that Uganda is uniquely endowed to enjoy comparative advantages in many of these production lines. We have always had the raw-materials (leather, cotton, coffee, tea, bananas, cassava, maize, milk, minerals, forest products, fresh water products, etc.). Our population, especially the young ones, are now educated. We now have enough electricity and it will soon be cheap after refinancing Bujagaali. We are tackling the problem of high transport costs (repairing the old railway, building the standard gauge railway, reviving water transport, reviving our national airline, etc). We are going to lower the cost of money by capitalizing the UDB. It is high time to massively end the modern slavery of undermining our prosperity while we support the prosperity of others through excessive imports of items that we can make ourselves. As I speak today, we already have good investors for steel, fertilizers, glass, coffee, cotton, maize, milk, cooking oil etc. Amosi Dairies is exporting milk products to the USA; Mukwano is exporting cooking oil to the European Union; many factories were exporting fish before it was undermined by bad fishermen in the Lake. However, for shoes, furniture, automobiles, motor-cycles, electronic appliances, electrical appliances, etc., we are still depending on endless imports which cause so much haemorrhage and yet we have the capacity to compete in these fields if everybody wakes up. Using only Shs. 271 million through my State House Comptroller, I have bought common user machines for the furniture makers of Nsambya. This is one group with 2,000 members. I have given support to 105

groups in the Katwe area with a membership of 1,570 and to 17 groups in the Najeera area with a membership of 510. The Katwe â&#x201D;&#x20AC; Najeera area groups are, mainly, in metal cutting, bending, etc. In Katwe, I used Shs. 375 million and in Najeera, I used Shs. 337 million. Apart from supporting groups that are already engaged in artisanal efforts, through my State House Comptroller, I am now supporting 711 young girls to do: baking, embroidery, textile weaving, shoes making, knitting, etc. Every intake of 6 months costs us Uganda Shs. 486 million, including giving them lunch and daily transport of Shs. 2,000 per person. This is Kampala based. We want to decentralize to the Kampala divisions. Once we decentralize to the regions, the cost of transport will be eliminated. The youth can, then, walk to and from the training centres. This will mean that these youth are transformed from being idle and unemployed into wealth creators and job creators. Remember that oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wealth in agriculture, industry, services or ICT, creates jobs for many. When I am a farmer, the farm is my wealth. It also creates jobs for others. When I am a factory owner, the factory is my wealth; but it also creates jobs for others. When I own a hotel, the hotel creates jobs for others although the hotel is my wealth. When I run a Business Processes Outsourcing (BPO) business, that business creates jobs for others. The huge reservoir of the unemployed and propertyless youth is a huge opportunity. Best of Uganda

We should transform them into wealth creators and job creators. They are the ones to save us from imports and also generate exports using our huge natural resources and our comparative advantages. Their parents or siblings are already in agriculture. Let them commercialize that agriculture and move away from subsistence agriculture (pur me cam keken). Instead of those children going back to crowd on the small family farms, let them create new wealth by owning small factories (maize-mills, juice-processing, milk coolers, weaving units, knitting units, baking units, furniture factories, computer assembling, radio assembling, motorcycle assembling, ceramics, making floor tiles from our abundant granite (amabaare), making combs and buttons from our cattle horns, wood-carving, traditional milk pots, traditional plates made out of wood-entaatika, etc). All these are in the sector of industry-factories. How about services in the form of transport, tourism, hotels, music, financial services, professional services, etc.? Some of the youth are already in transport - boda-bodas and taxis. 18

Best of Uganda

Some are lawyers, doctors, etc. The musicians need to be supported to be more organized. Then there are the BPOs â&#x201D;&#x20AC; i.e. outsourcing services of customer care, utilities monitoring, bookkeeping, etc., by North American companies. Those who only talk of agriculture do not know what they are talking about. How many people do you need to farm two acres of land in a year? With a tractor, one young man and his wife are enough. How about the other siblings? What do they rationally do other than just crowding in the village and encouraging endless land fragmentation? That is why the African society of Uganda needs to metamorphose away from agriculture into industry, services and ICT. Some of the families have already moved into trading (shops, produce buying, etc); others have moved into transport (boda-bodas, taxis, buses, etc); others have moved into medical care (private clinics, drug shops); others into private schools, etc. Others have become preachers (providing spiritual services). The services sector, however, uses what others make. In order to securely anchor our society, our children

must not only use what others make. We must make what we use if it makes economic sense. While the wealth sectors are four (agriculture, industry, services and ICT), the sectors that make what others use are two: agriculture and industry. The two sectors produce food and other rawmaterials (agriculture) and industry makes goods. The two are really the base of a modern economy. Africa was colonized and is still marginalized, not because we could not dance, sing and preach, but because we lagged behind in manufacturing (making guns, cars, planes, computers, cups, plates, shoes, clothes, etc). Manufacturing is for wealth, jobs, security and social-economic transformation (social metamorphosis). All modern economies have more people in industry and services than in agriculture. In the USA, the people in agriculture are only 2%; in the UK, it is, again, only 2%. Having too many people in agriculture is a characteristic of economic and social backwardness. Let us diversify our wealth and rationalize it. Our grandchildren who are redundant

Until now, much of our capacity has been, mostly used to enhance the prosperity of others. Our raw-materials support the prosperity of others. Our purchasing power supports the prosperity of others. This is in spite of the NRM stand from the beginning â&#x201D;&#x20AC; to build an integrated, self-sustaining, independent economy (point no. 5 of the NRM Programme of 10 points). This was on account of the low starting point of 60mgws of electricity. Our base has now been dramatically raised. We have a more educated society. We have peace. We have surplus electricity. We have a better road network. We are working on the railway and water transport. We are working on the cost of money for agriculture and manufacturing. This is the time for takeoff. Yet, the money required is not so much as already pointed out above. In Najeera, I spent Shs. 337 million; Shs. 375 million in Katwe; and Shs. 271 million in Nsambya. These figures included cash for their SACCOs, common user machines and, in some cases, work site sheds. In job creation and wealth expansion, we shall not only depend on converting our youth to wealth and job creation. We shall aggressively also attract FDIs (Foreign Direct Investments). These can move things faster. They have the money, the technology and the contacts for the markets. Now that we have the electricity, and once we have solved the issue of the high price of electricity, we shall be competitive. We shall also review the landing fees for aircrafts at Entebbe and the ground handling fees. That airport must be competitive. It is not wise to overprice yourself out of business. However, for the FDIs to flow in, we must purge out all the corrupt officials in the UIA, in the Ministry of Finance, in NEMA, etc. They are the ones that have been delaying and frustrating investments. How shall we know them? We shall know them by their fruits. Their actions will tell us who they are. You delay an investment for two days, we know who you are.

If I can use such small amounts of money to do what I am doing, the huge amounts of money in those Funds (youth, women, innovation, etc.), can do much more. Let us study it. You have seen how I have been using little money to convert the youth from propertylessness and joblessness to wealth creation and job creation. The girls who are being trained will be equipped with the necessary gadgets once they qualify, similar to what we had done to other groups but, this time, in their own respective trades. Why canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t we use the huge monies for women groups, for the youth, for the SACCOs, etc? In addition to converting our youth from idleness to wealth and job creation as well as attracting FDIs, we shall also encourage our present members of UMA, who are 700 in number, to expand, diversify and deepen their operations. Those engaged in exporting wet-blue leather, should make final leather so that our massive move on making shoes by our youth utilizes our leather. Kilembe mines must produce the 99.9% pure cathode copper rather than the 94% pure blister copper because the former can directly be used in our cables industry at Lugazi rather than having the irrationality of copper producers having to import copper ingots for use in our cables industry. Yet we are a copper producing country. That was the case in the 1960s when we were producing and smelting copper but not to the final degree. The Gold Refinery recently commissioned at Entebbe is a good example because the gold produced there is pure enough to be used in coins, jewellery, etc, directly. The steel from Sukulu (Tororo) will straight away go into the dams, the high-rise buildings, the railway, etc. Our sugar producers should further refine sugar to produce purer sugar for use in beverages or for pharmaceutical industries. Our beverages industries and our pharmaceuticals industries are rendered expensive on account of importing pharmaceutical grade sugar and starch from outside.

at home, because the family farms rationally need just a few of them to run them, are actually a gold mine for the country by invading, especially, the manufacturing sector but also more and more in the services sector. The propertyless and jobless youth, once empowered with training, machinery and working capital, will undergo a three dimensional metamorphosis: they will become wealth creators, job creators but also consumers. With income from their businesses, they will reinforce the purchasing power of the country. It is an endless chain of cause and effect. Some of the young people belong to families that have properties. However, the inefficient traditional system does not permit the easy use of that property for rational income-generation. By the judicious use of our capacity - our raw materials, our purchasing power and our human resource (especially the youth) - we shall greatly enhance our prosperity. Best of Uganda

Our sugar producers cannot, however, do this if they are still being disturbed by pirate sugar companies that were licensed by our system to operate in the traditional sugar producers’ zone of cane. We are going to rationalize this dangerous chaos in the sugar industry. With pharmaceutical grade sugar, medical drugs that need syrups will cost-effectively be made here. The soda industries will benefit from the industrial grade sugar. Some of our industrialists (old or new) should go into making industrial and pharmaceutical grade starch for industrial and pharmaceutical use. Human drugs ─ companies are inconvenienced by having to import starch from outside. Yet, we have our cassava and maize waiting to be turned into starch. Could Dr. Muranga’s banana starch help us in this? Local starch would make the drugs cheaper by 30% and, therefore, more competitive. The Ministries concerned have pledged to, finally, work on some of the industrial parks such as Namanve, Luzira, Mbale, etc,. We are also expecting 20

Best of Uganda

our Kiira electric car, Kayoola mini-bus and pick-up in 2018. The Automobile Industrial Park is being developed in Jinja. On this occasion, I will not speak alot on agriculture because OWC is already on the move to tackle the 69% of our population who are subsistence farmers whose muziro (totem) has been money. Perhaps on another occasion, I will give details of what OWC has done. As far as agriculture is concerned, I will only mention three areas. One, we should remember that there are richer farmers who do not benefit from OWC. These need separate support through low interest money in UDB. They need this money to do bushclearing, pasture development, water excavation, acquire solar water pumps for irrigation, acquiring agricultural machinery, accessing chemicals for crop parasites etc. Part of the capitalization of UDB by government will do this. I have also discussed with PTA and SADC Banks on this issue. The other issue is irrigation. We cannot depend forever on rain-fed agriculture. In the second season of last

year (Ituumba) when there was stampede about the “drought”, there were at the same time the second highest recorded water-levels since 1900. The water level last year, in the first season (Katuumba), at Entebbe reached the level of 12.70 metres. That water level was only exceeded by the record water level of 1964 when it reached 13.65 metres at Entebbe. In fact, since I follow those issues, I was very worried that the landing sites and piers would be swallowed up by the water as happened in 1964. Indeed, part of the shoreline was flooded. Even today, the water level at Entebbe is at 12.13 metres. Ever since 1964, the water level in Lake Victoria has never gone back to its 1959 level of 10.76 meters or that of 10.28 meters in 1923. Therefore, to talk of “drought” in Uganda is an irrationality. The answer is irrigation. I am glad the government is working on this. The plans for the irrigation schemes of: Katabok (Abim district), Ongom (Aleptong district), Biiso (Buliisa district), Labori (Serere district), Namalu (Nakapiripirit district), Musamya (Kayunga district),

Kibiimba (Gomba district) and Matanda (Kanungu district) are at the feasibility and design stages. Designs for the following irrigation schemes are already finished: Mobuku II, Doho II, Wadelai, Tochi, Rwengaju and Ngenge. There are also 130 micro irrigation schemes in various districts. Other designs to be done are: Rwebincuuncu, Mabira, Atari, Acomai, Geregere, Ojama, Kyenshama, Kyahi, etc. These do not include the mega irrigation schemes around the Rwenzori, the Elgon, the Agoro and the Kigyezi Highlands as well as bulk water transfers for Kagyera, Nakasongola and Kakyeera areas. More importantly, working with industrialists, we are developing solar powered water pumps that can be used by individual farmers. I am looking forward to throwing away my diesel water pumps when the cheaper solar pumps are available. I could then irrigate my pasture and crops. Hitherto, I have confined myself to only filling the cattle dip tanks for fear of the cost of fuel.

required to supply cattle for the abattoirs that are springing up and also supply the Chinese market where our people have got orders for beef where a Kg is now US$11.5. With 14 million cattle, this should not be a problem because you can easily sell off 20% per annum and it will not affect the national herd. 20% of the national herd is 2.8 million. Therefore, supplying a factory that needs 146,000 per year is not a problem. However, somebody must concentrate on those cattle so that the factory gets its 400 cattle per day that it needs. We have directed NEC to do this. Everybody should support them. Even private fatteners of bullocks can be licensed to feed these factories and also the export market.

The third issue is to remember that, in order to supply the industries, our agriculture must wake up and behave industrially. We, for instance, are now

The fifth crucial issue is market access. Under our 10 strategic bottlenecks that we identified long ago, limited market access is one of them. Recently,

In all this, I have not yet commented on the oil and our other minerals. Having agreed on the pipeline, we are set to move. This oil will make it easy for the Uganda State to fund infrastructure and innovation in Science.

in Dar-es-Salaam, I pointed out that in order to guarantee our prosperity, we must ensure that our products access the internal market, the regional one and the international one. Trade is about mutual support if it is fair trade. The EAC market of 170 million people gives us a good base to negotiate with others â&#x201D;&#x20AC; the Americans, the EU, the Chinese, the Indians, the Japanese, the Russian, etc. Once somebody buys what you produce as already pointed out, he is supporting your prosperity. The reverse is the case if you buy what he is producing. You are supporting his prosperity â&#x201D;&#x20AC; you are creating jobs for him and giving him that that should be yours in terms of money. Let us wake up and wake up everybody. I thank you.

Best of Uganda

UGANDA VISION 2040 “A Transformed Ugandan Society from a Peasant to a Modern and Prosperous Country within 30 years” In 2007, Cabinet approved Uganda’s National Vision Statement. The National Planning Authority in consultation with other government institutions and other stakeholders developed a Uganda Vision 2040 to operationalise this Vision statement and it was launched on 18 April 2013. Uganda Vision 2040 builds on the progress that has been made in addressing the strategic bottlenecks that have constrained Uganda’s socio-economic development since her independence, including: ideological disorientation, weak private sector, underdeveloped human resources, inadequate infrastructure, small market, lack of industrialisation, underdeveloped services sector, under-development of agriculture, and poor democracy, among others. THE VISION Uganda Vision 2040 provides development paths and strategies to operationalise Uganda’s Vision statement to transform Ugandan society to a modern and prosperous country within 30 years. This involves changing from a predominantly low income to a competitive upper middle income country within 30 years. It was envisaged that the country will graduate to the middle income segment by 2017 and reach a per capita of US$9,500 by 2040. Although off target due to global economics, Uganda is on a trajectory and can reach this status in the next decade. The Vision 2040 is conceptualised around strengthening the fundamentals of the economy to harness the abundant opportunities around the country. The identified opportunities include: Oil and gas Tourism Minerals ICT Business Abundant Labour Force Geographical Location and Trade

Best of Uganda

Water Resources Industrialisation and Agriculture To achieve the vision the average real GDP growth rate will have to be consistent at about 8.2% per annum translating into total GDP of about US$580.5-billion with a projected population of 61.3 million in 2040. This will depend on the country’s capacity to strengthen the fundamentals to harness the opportunities. The fundamentals include: infrastructure (energy, transport, water, oil and gas, and ICT); Science, Technology, Engineering and Innovation (STEI); land use and management; urbanisation; human resource; and peace, security and defence.

The Vision’s attributes, which are consistent with the principles of the constitution, are: a. Independence and sovereignty; b. Democracy and the rule of law; c. Stability and peace; d. Knowledgeable and skilled; e. Able to exploit and use its resources gainfully and sustainably; f. In a strong federated East Africa with an effective African Common Market and a strong African Defence Mechanism. KEY VISION STRATEGIES Review the architecture of government service delivery system to act as a unit, harness synergies and deliver public services efficiently and effectively. Government will invest directly in strategic areas to stimulate the economy and facilitate private sector growth. Pursue an urbanisation policy that will bring about better urban systems that enhance productivity, liveability and sustainability. Government will pursue policies aimed at leapfrogging in the areas of innovation, technology and science, engineering, human resource development, public sector management, and private sector development. Develop and implement a National Innovation System that will help in initiating, importing, modifying and diffusing new technologies. Government will front-load investments in infrastructure targeting areas of maximal opportunities with focus on oil, energy, transport and ICT.

Accelerate industrialisation through upgrading and diversification to effectively harness the local resources, offshoring industries and developing industrial clusters along the value chain. To develop and nurture a national value system by actualising a national service programme to change mindsets and promote patriotism and national identity. The vision will be implemented in accordance with existing and future agreements, standards and protocols within the framework of regional integration. Aspirations Nationwide consultations were conducted involving various stakeholders and consensus was reached on the following aspirations for Uganda’s future development:

Ugandans aspire to live and work in a peaceful, secure, harmonious and stable country where the rule of law prevails and respect for fundamental human rights observed. Ugandans want a corruption-free nation with strong democratic structures and systems. Ugandans aspire to have unity in diversity and equal opportunities irrespective of gender, tribe, ethnicity or religion. Ugandans aspire for a progressive and developmental culture that blends traditional beliefs and national values. Ugandans aspire for a future in which men, women, youth, children, and persons with disabilities are empowered to participate as equal partners in development. Ugandans desire to be resourceful and prosperous nationals contributing to national development through gainful employment, savings and investments. Ugandans desire to have access to affordable

Best of Uganda

quality health and education services. Ugandans aspire for a healthy, literate and well-informed society. We desire to live in clean and well planned settlements with access to all social amenities. Uganda aspires to be a society free of hunger with strong social safety nets. Ugandans desire to have world-class infrastructure and services, and modern technology to improve productivity and production. Ugandans also aspire to have access to clean, affordable and reliable energy sources to facilitate industrialisation. Ugandans desire a green economy and clean environment where the ecosystem is sustainably managed and the liveability of the urban systems greatly improved. Ugandans aspire for a highly moral and ethical society whose citizens are strong in religious and spiritual values, and instilled with the highest of ethical standards. A society in which people practice and profess their customs, cultures and religious beliefs and yet, feeling that they belong to one nation. These aspirations, as well as emerging development opportunities and global trends, provide a basis and foundation for the realization of the Vision 2040. VISION TARGETS Baseline and Desired Targets In line with the Vision and having benchmarked with selected Upper Middle Income (UMI) countries that have achieved similar level of development status, a number of socio-economic indicators and targets have been developed. Uganda’s Targets for 2040 Development Indicator Per capita income Percentage of population below the poverty line Income distribution(GINI Coefficient) Sectoral composition of GDP (%) Labor force distribution in line with sectoral contribution (%) % share of national labor force employed Manufactured exports as a % of total exports Gross Capital Formation as % of GDP Saving as a % of GDP ICT goods & services as a % of total export Technology up-take & diffusion (Technology Achievement Index (TAI)) Public expenditure as a % share of R&D to GDP Innovation as measured by patents registered per year Electricity consumption (kWh per capita) % population with access to electricity Water consumption (m3 per capita) % population with access to safe piped water % of standard paved roads to total road network % of cargo freight on rail to total freight % of population in planned settlements % level of urbanization Labor Productivity (GDP per Worker - USD) Life expectancy at birth (years) Infant mortality rate per 1000 live births Maternal mortality rate per 100,000 live births Under 5 mortality rate per 1000 Child stunting as a % of under 5s Literacy Rate (%) Gender Related Development Index (GDI) Population growth rate Forest Cover (% land Area) Wetland Cover - % of total area Corruption Perception Index 24

Best of Uganda

Agriculture Industry Services Agriculture Industry Services

Urban Rural Agriculture Industry Services Total

Baseline Status: 2010 USD 506 24.5 0.43 22.4 26.4 51.2 65.6 7.6 26.8 70.9 4.2 24.1 14.5 0

USD 9500 5 0.32 10.4 31.4 58.2 31 26 43 94 50 30 35 40

0.24

0.5

0.1

2.5

6000

75 11 26 15 4 3.5 51 0 13 390 3,550 1,830 1,017 51.5 63 438 96 33 73 0.51 3.2 15 8 2.5

3668 80 600 100 80 80 100 100 60 6,790 24,820 25,513 19,770 85 4 15 8 0 95 0.9 2.4 24 13 7.1

Target 2040

KEY FLAGSHIP PROJECTS Uganda Vision 2040 identifies key core projects that need to be started, including: A Hi-tech ICT city and associated ICT infrastructure; Large irrigation schemes in different parts of the country; Phosphate industry in Tororo; Iron ore industry in Muko, Kabale; Five regional cities (Gulu, Mbale, Kampala, Mbarara, and Arua) and five strategic cities (Hoima, Nakasongola ,Fortportal, Moroto, and Jinja); Four international airports; A standard gauge railway network with highspeed trains; Oil Refinery and associated pipeline infrastructure; Multi-lane paved national road network linking major towns, cities and other strategic locations; Globally competitive skills development centres; Nuclear power and hydropower plants (Ayago, Isimba, Karuma, and Murchison Bay); Science and Technology parks in each regional city; International and national referral hospitals in each regional city IMPLEMENTATION The Vision implementation will be a responsibility of every citizen of Uganda in government, private sector, civil society, political organisations and any other institutions. However, it will be spearheaded by the president. It will be implemented in line with the comprehensive National Development Planning Framework. Interventions will be sequenced and detailed in: three 10-year plans; six five-year national development plans; Sector Investment Plans (SIPs); Local

Government Development Plans (LGDPs); Annual work plans and annual budgets. Policy Implications Education: Accelerate the government reforms in the education system and the curriculum to obtain globally competitive human resource with skills relevant to the development paradigm. Develop and implement a specific policy to attract and retain top rated professionals in the Universities to make Uganda a centre of Excellence in Education the region. Facilitate partnership with international universities and attract them to set up campuses in Uganda. Industry: It is envisaged that government would set up and invest directly in key strategic industries. Government will establish sector specific cluster based industrial zones and establish a specific policy to support off shoring industries. Politics: It is most desirable that the parliamentary system be remodelled from a unicameral to bi-cameral one to facilitate developmental democracy by retaining some of the most experienced and venerable citizenry in the newly created Upper Chamber/House alongside the elected Lower House. Infrastructure: Establish an infrastructure fund to significantly lower the cost of infrastructure development. Health: The need to develop a universal health insurance system through public private partnership.

Financing: The financing of this Vision will be mainly by the government, CSOs, development partners and the private sector. Government will mobilise resources using conventional and innovative non-conventional means of financing including: tax and non-tax revenues; revenue from oil and gas; Public Private Partnerships; concessional loans and grants; and borrowing from domestic and international markets. The revenue from oil and gas will be used to kickstart major infrastructure development projects to enhance the country’s competitiveness. The domestic and international borrowing will include: domestic and sovereign infrastructure bonds, venture and investment funds. There will be regular monitoring and evaluation of the Uganda Vision 2040 in line with the mechanisms provided for in the Comprehensive National Development Planning Framework.

www.npa.ug

Best of Uganda

UGANDA at a GLANCE

Uganda is a country nestled in the heart of Africa on the equator and is one of the most scenic and diverse countries in Africa – with an expansive montage of tribes and cultures. A landlocked country in East Africa, it is also known as the “Pearl of Africa” as it leaves many travellers captivated by its beauty, safety and accessibility. Uganda’s outstanding landscape and fantastic scenery can be credited in part to its situation on Lake Victoria – the birthplace of the River Nile. Uganda shares Lake Victoria with Kenya and Tanzania. Gaining independence from Britain on 9 October 1962, Uganda currently boasts three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, namely Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – which is known as the home of the gorillas, Rwenzori Mountains National Park and Tombs of Baganda Kings at Kasubi. Welcome to one of Africa’s friendliest destinations. Full Name: Republic of Uganda Capital: Kampala Motto: For God and My Country National Anthem: “Oh Uganda, Land of Beauty” President: Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Area: 241,551 km2 Population: 34.6 million (2014 National Population Census) Official Language: English Second Official Language: Swahili Main Religions: Christianity (Catholic & Anglican) and Islam Main exports: Coffee, cotton, tea, tobacco, fruits, flowers, fish and fish products Mineral Resources: Copper, Cobalt, Tungsten, Iron Ore, Columbite, Tantalite, Vermiculite, Gold, Tin, Phosphates, Limestone/Marble, Glass, Sand, Dimension stones etc, Oil and Gas Monetary unit: Ugandan Shilling (UGX) GDP: US$24.7-billion (Financial Year 2015/2016) History Uganda takes its name from the Buganda kingdom, which encompassed a portion of the south of the country including the capital Kampala. The people of Uganda were hunter-gatherers from 1,700 to 2,300 years ago, when Bantu-speaking populations migrated

to the southern parts of the country. With these groups came the development of ironworking skills and new organisational ideas of society and politics, with the kingdom of the Empire of Kitara covering the vast great lakes region. Arab traders moved inland from the Indian Ocean coast of East Africa in the 1830s. They were followed in the

1860s by British explorers searching for the source of the Nile. Protestant missionaries entered the country in 1877, followed by Catholic missionaries in 1879. The United Kingdom placed the area under the charter of the British East Africa Company in 1888, and ruled it as a protectorate from 1894. As several other territories and chiefdoms were integrated, the final protectorate called Uganda took shape in 1914. Uganda gained independence from Britain in 1962, maintaining its Commonwealth membership. The first post-independence election, held in 1962, was won by an alliance between the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) and Kabaka Yekka (KY). UPC and KY formed the first post- independence government with Milton Obote as Prime Minister, the Buganda Kabaka (King) Edward Muteesa II holding the largely ceremonial position of President and William Wilberforce Nadiope, the Kyabazinga (paramount chief) of Busoga, as Vice President. In 1966, following a power struggle between the Oboteled government and King Muteesa, the UPC-dominated Parliament changed the constitution and removed the ceremonial president and vice president. In 1967, a new constitution proclaimed Uganda a republic and abolished the traditional kingdoms. Without first calling elections, Obote was declared the executive President. Obote was deposed from office in 1971 when Idi Amin seized power. Amin ruled the country with the military for the next eight years. Amin’s rule was characterised by gross human rights abuse, political repression, ethnic persecution, extrajudicial killings, nepotism, corruption, and gross

Best of Uganda

economic mismanagement. Amin’s rule cost an estimated 300,000 Ugandans’ lives. He forcibly removed the entrepreneurial South Asian minority from Uganda and as a result, the Ugandan economy was devastated. Amin infamously declared himself the “uncrowned King of Scotland” and became obsessed with all things Scottish. Amin’s reign ended after the Uganda-Tanzania War in 1979 in which Tanzanian forces aided by Ugandan exiles invaded Uganda. This led to the return of Obote, who was deposed once more in 1985 by General Tito Okello. Okello ruled for six months until he was deposed after the “bush war” by the National Resistance Army (NRA) operating under the leadership of the current president, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni who took power in 1986. Since then, Uganda has had relative stability and economic growth after decades of government mismanagement and civil wars. Government The President of Uganda, currently Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, is both head of state and head of government. The President appoints a Vice President, currently Edward Ssekandi, and a Prime Minister, currently Ruhakana Rugunda, who aid him in governing. The parliament is formed by the National Assembly

Best of Uganda

and is headed by Speaker, currently Rebecca Kadaga. The current Parliament (2016-2021) which is the 10th Parliament is composed of 445 members. Of those members 137 represent interest groups, including women, youth, workers, persons with disabilities and the army. The third arm of government is the Judiciary headed by Chief Justice who is currently Bart Katureebe. The Capital Kampala is the capital of Uganda and the largest city. The city is divided into five boroughs that oversee local planning: Kampala Central, Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa and Lubaga. Kampala is seeing significant rebuilding of infrastructure such as communication and transport systems after the damage from years of war and neglect. Traditionally, Kampala was a city of seven hills, but over time it has come to have a lot more. Surrounding the city is the rapidly growing Wakiso district whose population more than doubled between 2002 and 2014 and now stands at over 2 million. Kampala was named the 13th fastest growing city on the planet, with an annual population growth rate of 4.03%, by City Mayors. Kampala has been ranked the best city to live in East Africa ahead of Nairobi and Kigali by Mercer, a global development consulting agency based in New York. The People Culture Uganda is home to many different ethnic groups, none forming the population majority. Uganda is home to fascinating cultural dances celebrated by some 30 tribes found in the country. Uganda has a very strong cultural heritage. Many regions in Uganda have kingdoms including Buganda, Busoga, Bunyoro and Toro. Ugandans are remarkably hospitable and hail from a diversity of rich cultures and lifestyles. Each tribe has its own traditional dance: the Banyankole perform their Kitagururo dance; the Banyoro have their Runyege; Acholi have the Bwora and Otole dances; the Alur people from the West Nile have the traditional Agwal dance; and the Bagisu have the Imbalu dance during circumcision ceremonies.

Best of Uganda

Cultural Sites Uganda has numerous cultural sites and notable ones include: • The Kasubi Tombs: These royal tombs are located 5 kilometers from Kampala the capital on Kasubi hill. The Kasubi tombs are a very important cultural site in Buganda Kingdom. It is a UNESCO heritage place and the tombs are burial grounds for 4 Kings of the Buganda Kingdom referred to as ‘Kabake”.

• The Sezibwa Falls: These spiritual and impressive falls hold a unique

status to the Baganda people. For ages, this place has been a favorite spot the Buganda Kings. The falls hold much spiritual significance. It’s said that Kabaka Mwanga and Kabaka Mutesa II who were both kingdom kings ‘tied’ their twins at this place. Other than their cultural significance, the spectacular waterfalls are a fine location for rock climbing, bird watching, healing, watching the waterfalls and cultural dances.

• Namugongo Martyrs Shrine: This Uganda martyrs’ shrine is a vital

attraction in Uganda’s history. It is at this place where 22 catholic Christian converts were brutally executed following the orders of Kabaka Mwanga II in the year 1886. At this place touristic shrines have been erected by the Roman Catholic Church Christians and the Church of Uganda, and annually pilgrimages are made to this place. The victims of Mutesa’s brutality were canonized in 1869.

Best of Uganda

Languages The most widely spoken local language in Uganda is Luganda, spoken predominantly by the Baganda. The Lusoga and Runyankore-Rukiga languages follow, spoken predominantly in the south-eastern and southwestern parts of Uganda respectively. The Luo and NiloHamitic dialects are spoken by the Acholi and Langi and other tribes in the north and north east. Religion According to the census of 2014, the Roman Catholic Church has the largest number of adherents (39.3%), followed by the Anglican Church of Uganda (32%). Evangelical and Pentecostal churches claim the rest of the Christian population. The Muslims are 13.7% of the population. Traditional indigenous beliefs are sometimes blended with or practiced alongside Christianity or Islam. In addition to a small community of Jewish expatriates centered in Kampala, Uganda is home to the Abayudaya, a native Jewish community dating from the early 1900s. One of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seven Bahai Houses of Worship is located on the outskirts of Kampala. Indian nationals are the most significant immigrant population; members of this community are primarily Ismaili (Shiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;a Muslim followers of the Aga Khan) or Hindu.

Best of Uganda

Population Uganda’s population has grown from 4.8 million people in 1950 to 34.6 million according to the 2014 National Housing and Population Census undertaken by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics. Uganda has a very young population, with a median age of 15 years. Economy For decades, Uganda’s economy suffered from devastating economic policies and instability, leaving Uganda as one of the world’s poorest countries. The country commenced economic reforms including the notable liberalisation of market prices and privatisation of public enterprises. These reforms have improved economic performance and growth has been robust. The resultant macroeconomic 34

Best of Uganda

stability, post-conflict rebound and investment response generated a sustained period of high growth from 1987 to 2010. Real gross domestic product (GDP) growth averaged 7% per year in the 1990s and the 2000s, placing Uganda among the 15 fastest growing economies in the World at a time of global downturn and regional instability. Since then, growth slowed slightly but kept stable at 4.5% over the last five years (2011/12 – 2015/16). Uganda has substantial natural resources, including fertile soils, regular rainfall, and sizable mineral deposits of copper and cobalt. The country has largely untapped reserves of both crude oil and natural gas. Main industries are sugar, brewing, tobacco,

cotton, textiles, cement, and steel production. While agriculture used to account for 56% of the economy in 1986, with coffee as its main export, it has now been surpassed by the services sector, which accounted for 51.3% of GDP in 2015/2016. In the 1950s the British Colonial regime encouraged some 500,000 subsistence farmers to join co-operatives. Since 1986, the government (with the support of foreign countries and international agencies) has acted to rehabilitate an economy devastated during the regime of Idi Amin and subsequent civil war. Inflation ran at 240% in 1987 and 42% in June 1992, 23.5 in 2012 and 6.6% in 2016. Between 1990 and 2001, the economy grew because of continued investment in the rehabilitation of infrastructure, improved incentives for production and exports, reduced inflation and gradually improved domestic security.

Growth for 2001–2002 was solid despite continued decline in the price of coffee. According to IMF statistics, in 2004 Uganda’s GDP per capita reached US$300, a much higher level than in the 1980s but still at half the sub-Saharan African average income of US$600 per year. Total GDP crossed the US$8-billion mark in the same year. Tourism Tourism in Uganda is focused on Uganda’s landscape and wildlife. It is a major driver of employment, investment and foreign exchange. The tourism sector, on average, contributes about UGX6.5-billion to Gross Domestic Product. This has been a growth from UGX5.6-billion recorded in the 2013/14 financial year. The growth translates into 9.9% contribution to GDP - up from 7.9% in 2013/14. The growth, according to Ministry of Tourism, has been a result of increased visitor numbers, which in the 2014/15 financial year, grew from 1,206,334 to 1,266,046. Game viewing is the most popular tourist activity in Uganda. Wild animals like lions, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes, and elephants are common in Uganda’s national parks. Uganda is one of only three countries where it is possible to visit the endangered mountain gorillas. Uganda has remained untouched by major tourist flows so far, which makes it an attractive choice for a safari in Africa. Uganda is among the top 16 holiday destinations for 2016 by CNN. Also ranked as top tourist destination for 2012 by Lonely Planet. Best of Uganda

The Land Uganda is located on the East African plateau, mostly lying between latitudes 4°N and 2°S (a small part lies north of 4°), and longitudes 29° and 35°E. It averages about 1,100 metres (3,609 ft) above sea level which slopes steadily downwards to the Sudanese Plain in the north. Much of the south is not well drained, with the centre being dominated by Lake Kyoga which is surrounded by extensive marsh lands. Uganda lies almost entirely within the Nile basin. The Victoria Nile (White Nile) drains from Lake Victoria into Lake Kyoga and then into Lake Albert on the Congo border, then running northwards into Southern Sudan. A small area on the eastern edge of Uganda is drained by the Turkwel River, part of the internal drainage basin of Lake Turkana.

Best of Uganda

Climate Uganda’s weather conditions are ideal, ranging from the warmth of the lowland areas to the coolness of the highlands of Kigezi in the South Western Uganda. For most of the year, Uganda is sunny with temperatures rarely rising above 29°C. The average temperature is about 26°C, with a maximum of 18-31°C and minimum of 15-23°C depending on the part of the country. The rain season is MarchMay. Light rain season is November and December. Dry seasons are December to February and June to August. Rainfall ranges between 500 - 2500mm and the relative humidity is 70 - 100%. The rainfall regime allows two planting and harvesting seasons a year in most parts of the country, without the use of irrigation. With the Stock Exchanges established in 1996, several equities have been listed. The Government has used the stock market as an avenue for privatisation. All Government treasury issues are listed on the securities exchange. The Capital Markets Authority has to-date licensed 26 market intermediaries: brokers, fund managers, trust managers and investment advisors including names like African Alliance, Dyer and Blair, Pine Bridge and Stanlib. As one of the ways of increasing formal domestic savings, the Pension

sector reform was the centre of attention in 2007 and a regulator, the Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority was established. Agriculture Agriculture contributes a major chunk to the Ugandan economy and has contributed to poverty reduction. According to the World Bank, in the last decade Uganda has recorded, the fastest rates of extreme poverty reduction in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and the developing world. The percentage of the population living with less than $1.90 (2011 PPP) a day declined from 53.2% in 2006 to 34.6% in 2013. In fact agriculture accounted for 79% of the poverty decline from 2006 to 2013. While diversifying income with activities not related to agriculture was increasingly important for Ugandan households, poverty reduction was just as fast for those households solely in agriculture as for those with diversified non-agricultural income sources. Agricultural incomes grew because the government got some key fundamentals right such as the pacification of the North, enhancements in infrastructure, liberal export markets and better market information for farmers and traders (thanks to an improved ICT sector).

Best of Uganda

The favourable soil and climate conditions have contributed to the country’s agricultural success. Most areas of Uganda usually receive suitable rain. In some years, small areas of the southeast and southwest have averaged more than 150mm a month. This coupled with the warm temperatures moderated by differences in altitude, which vary only a few degrees above or below 20°C, ensure that the dry seasons encountered in the north do not negatively affect agricultural activities on the whole. These conditions have allowed continuous cultivation in the south but only annual cropping in the north, and the driest north-eastern corner of the country has supported only pastoralism. Although population growth has created pressures for land in a few areas, land shortages have been rare. Uganda’s main food crops are plantains, cassava, sweet potatoes, millet, sorghum, corn, beans, and groundnuts. Major cash crops are coffee, cotton, tea and tobacco. Other sectors include sugar, livestock and beekeeping. The Ugandan Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and fisheries is close to realising its aims for Uganda to become a rice self-sufficient country. Rice is a major food security crop to many Ugandans. Fisheries Fisheries resources are among the most significant natural endowments in Uganda comprised of lakes,

rivers, swamps and streams. Lake Victoria is the largest and most economically significant of the national fisheries. Fisheries contributed 1.7% to GDP (2014) and employs over 1 million people. The major species caught are Tilapia, Nile perch and Silver fish. Minerals The mining industry in Uganda reached peak levels in the 1950s and 1960s when the sector accounted for up to 30% of Uganda’s export earnings. However, political and economic instability experienced in the country in the 1970s and the recent global economic slowdown led the sector to decline drastically. The period after 1986 has been marked by a favourable business climate in Uganda and many mining companies have taken up licences in the mining sector. Over the last ten years the sector has been growing positively with growth rates peaking 19.4% in FY 2006/07. In FY 2009/2010, the sector grew by 12.8%. In terms of licences taken, in 1999 there were 66 licences issued in the exploration and mining licence categories combined; by the beginning of 2010 there were a total of 517 licences issued. The principal minerals are: Copper, Cobalt, Tungsten, Iron Ore, Columbite, Tantalite, Vermiculite, Gold, Tin, Phosphates, Limestone/ Marble, Glass, Sand, Dimension stones, among others.

Best of Uganda

Oil and gas Significant oil exploration in Uganda was first done by E.J Wayland, a government geologist who documented substantial hydrocarbon occurrences in the Albertine Graben in the 1920s. The Albertine region forms the northernmost part of the western arm of the East Africa Rift System, and is the principle prospective area for oil reserves in Uganda. Oil exploration in Uganda was interrupted during the Second World War, and resumed more seriously in the early 1980s with the acquisition of aeromagnetic data across the entire Graben region. In the last decade, Uganda renewed efforts in oil exploration by licensing a number of prospectors. These efforts yielded results with a breakthrough by Hardman Resources Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s discovery of huge petroleum deposits in the Albertine Graben region, and subsequently other licensed companies. Exploration is on-going in 10 areas, including Rhino Camp (Arua District), Pakwach (Nebbi District), Semiliki and around Lakes Albert and Edward. The total oil volume in Uganda is estimated at 6 billion barrels.

Best of Uganda

Icons of Uganda SPORTS John Akii-Bua Born in Lira District in the north of the country, Akii-Bua dropped out of school at age 16 upon his father’s death and joined the Uganda Police in Kampala where he began to train as an athlete. John Akii-Bua made history at the Munich Olympics in 1972 by setting a 400m hurdles record for which he won Olympic gold. He was the first man to run the race under 48 seconds and the first African to win gold in a race under 800m. He remained the only Ugandan with Olympic gold until 2005 when Ugandan Dorcas Inzikuru won gold at the first women’s steeplechase event.

Dorcus Inzikuru Inzzi, as she is fondly referred to, won the first world athletics title in the women’s 3000m steeplechase at age 23; held in Helsinki, Finland in 2005. When she clocked a time of 9 minutes, 18 seconds and 24 micro seconds; the best any female had ever done over this distance. She is the second gold medalist for Uganda after Akii- Bua’s 1972 Olympic gold in Munich, ending a 33 year wait for an athletics world title.

Akii-Bua was hailed as a national hero by the then ruling President, Idi Amin who paradoxically would murder James Ocen-Bua, Akii-Bua’s brother. Akii-Bua fled into exile to neighbouring Kenya, but the trauma of the experience led to the death of his wife who died while giving birth prematurely. In a refugee camp in Kenya, Akii-Bua’s sponsor Puma took him to Germany where he worked for 4 years before returning home to Uganda where he joined the police force once again.

She received a hero’s welcome upon her return and received a heroine’s medal from the President with a motion being moved in Parliament to honour the ‘Arua Gazelle’ as she was also ‘baptised’ at the time after her district of birth Arua, in Northern Uganda.

John Akii-Bua died at age 51 and his name continues to sound reminders of the sports hero who put Uganda on the world map.

Inzzi got married to a former sprinter shortly after and disappeared off the track as fast as she had appeared; but remains a national icon indeed and continues to run under Nairobi based coach Renato Canova but has not won any major titles in recent years.

Best of Uganda

She went on to win several other honours thereafter including the first Commonwealth title in the event for Uganda in 2006 in Melbourne.

MUSIC Philly Bongoley Lutaaya A great musician whose “Born in Africa” album recorded in Sweden brought glamour and fame. He returned to Uganda where he broke the silence by declaring that he was HIV positive. Previously, the ‘strange disease’ that was eating away populations in the South Western district of Rakai in Uganda had been attributed to witchcraft. Although many people initially thought it was a publicity stunt, as Philly continued to waste away, the reality of the disease struck home and catapulted Philly Lutaaya’s HIV/AIDS activist work and subsequent album about HIV/AIDS, “Alone”, to the top of the national charts - especially after his death in 1989 from HIV/AIDS related diseases at the age of 38. Because of Philly’s work, AIDS activism grew in Uganda heavily supported by the government and the non-government sector, leading to a dramatic fall in the number of new HIV/AIDS infections.

George Wilberforce Kakoma Believed to have been born between 1923 and 1925 in Uganda’s South Western District of Masaka, George Wilberforce Kakoma, a graduate of Trinity College of Music and Durham University in the UK was the National Anthem composer. Kakoma was requested by the National Committee in charge of National Symbols prior to independence to assist the Sub Committee on the National Anthem, as they were not impressed by the submissions received from a large number of participants in the nationwide campaign for original compositions. Kakoma, then a renowned Inspector of Schools and a music teacher in the Masaka District came up with a melody overnight in 1962; just prior to Ugandas Independence day of 9 October 1962; the lyrics were written by his friend Peter Wyngard; a lecturer at Makerere Institute of Education. Kakoma died on the of 8th April in 2012 in Kampala’s Kololo suburb after a year’s illness following a stroke he suffered in August 2011. This was a few months to Uganda’s landmark anniversary celebrating 50 years of independence.

Afrigo Band With 17 albums to their name, the Afrigo Band remains Uganda’s most enduring live band led by its most famous lead musician, Joanita Kawalya. Its distinct Ugandan sound has endeared it to Ugandans of all ages both within Uganda and in the diaspora where they have made several tours, including countries like the United Kingdom, USA and Sweden. Founded in 1976, the band started off singing at a small night club taking on much larger and established bands and by the 80s it was a classic favourite held in high esteem.

LITERARY Okot P’Bitek Born in 1931, Okot P’Bitek is most famously remembered as Uganda’s literary great - a poet anthropologist and novelist. His most critically acclaimed work was the long poem “Song of Lawino”, a lamentation of a spurned rural housewife which was written in Bitek’s native Acholi and self-translated to English. This poem has been credited as one of the most important African literary works borrowing heavily from Bitek’s Luo culture. He died of a stroke in 1982 after an accomplished career following up “Song of Lawino” with two other exemplary works (“Song of Ocol” and “Song of a Malaya”) in addition to being the director of Uganda’s National Theatre. Best of Uganda

« ECONOMY » 44

Best of Uganda

CHAPTER 1 Best of Uganda

Matia Kasaija

Uganda Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. Following sustained periods of macroeconomic mis-management and civil strife, the Government of Uganda under the leadership of H.E. President Museveni restored peace and macroeconomic stability. Thereafter, the country embarked on a long journey to restore stability to the economic and social sectors. This has been achieved through undertaking various economic, social and structural reforms. As a result, Ugandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy has recovered and expanded significantly in the last two decades, which is a reflection of the consistent economic management and pro-growth policies that have been implemented.

Government is improving and building the necessary infrastructure required by the private sector to provide the business environment.

These policies and reforms have been the essential foundation for sustained economic growth and development. The good policies have also encouraged foreigners to invest in Uganda and external partners to support Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development efforts with resources, all of which ensured that investments grew at a faster rate than could have been supported by domestic savings alone.

In line with the progress on the economic front, the Government has been able to improve its capacity to provide services to the people. Significant progress has been made on a number of fronts in the last two decades â&#x20AC;&#x201C; reduced levels of poverty and

Best of Uganda

hunger, reduced mortality as well as increased access to social services. We will continue to focus on improving the quality of social services, as an integral part of tackling the challenges preventing the attainment of universal human development. The Government recognizes the important role that the private sector plays in sustaining our economy and providing employment opportunities.

As such, Government is improving and building the necessary infrastructure required by the private sector to provide the business environment. We have identified a number of strategic areas that require private sector participation and have finalised plans for implementation of activities in these areas over the medium term. The strategic areas include; agriculture, industrialisation, infrastructure development in the transport, energy and communications sectors, and human capital development. We have put in place the necessary legal, regulatory and institutional framework to facilitate private sector engagement. On behalf of Government, I wish to pledge commitment to support investment by ensuring that the necessary infrastructure together with the enabling legal, regulatory and institutional frameworks, are all in place. For God and My Country

Keith Muhakanizi

Statement by the Permanent Secretary/Secretary to the Treasury. In the early 1990s, the Government of Uganda embarked on 6.7% per annum. And despite population growth rates averaging and successfully restored macroeconomic stability following 2.9% per annum, the sustained rates of real GDP growth have a prolonged period of economic mismanagement and civil raised per capita output at an average rate of 3.2% per annum. strife that had devastated human and physical capital and also destroyed the economy’s formal sectors. The Government Uganda’s consistent record of maintaining macroeconomic budget had unfunded deficits and the economy suffered from stability and liberalizing markets in all key sectors of the economy severe macroeconomic imbalances including, high rates of has contributed to increases in investment. In real terms, fixed inflation and balance of payments deficits. Macroeconomic investment has increased by an average of 15% per annum in stability was achieved by imposing the last 16 years and averaged 21.3% strict control over Government’s own of GDP. Although the initial increase expenditures and maintaining fiscal in investment was attributable mainly discipline. The observance of fiscal to public sector investments, private discipline has been the cornerstone of investment has increased strongly and macroeconomic management ever since, now accounts for about 80% of total Uganda embarked on a especially for the control of inflation, as investment. We recognize the key role this is a pre-requisite for the higher levels the private sector plays in sustaining reform program which of private investment to sustain rapid our economy. The Government will aimed at liberalizing economic growth in Uganda. continue to invest in the development and improvement of infrastructure, which markets in all key Following the restoration of has been identified as a key bottleneck to sectors of the economy. macroeconomic stability, Uganda private sector growth. embarked on a reform program which aimed at liberalizing markets in all key This publication presents a brief snapshot sectors of the economy including the of the progress that Uganda has foreign exchange and financial markets, made since the early 1990s. Uganda’s commodity marketing and reforming the consistent record of implementation tax system. The external trade regime was also liberalized with of economic and structural reforms has stimulated sustained the removal of all non-tariff barriers to imports and the reduction increases in economic growth and improved access to social and rationalization of tariff rates. The major objective of these services. In-spite of the progress made, a number of challenges reforms was to improve the efficiency of resource allocation remain, however, notably, inadequate physical infrastructure, and free up opportunities for private sector investment. These weak capacity to execute large infrastructure projects and reforms have built resilience in the economy which has remained the absence of long-term financing. We will continue with the resolute in the wake of the challenges posed by the recent global reforms aimed at addressing these challenges in order to reduce and domestic shocks. The economy has expanded five-fold in the cost of doing business for the private sector and improving real terms in the last 15 years, with real GDP growth averaging incentives for saving, investment and trade.

Best of Uganda

ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION IN UGANDA

Uganda’s record on macroeconomic performance over the last 30 years has been impressive. Uganda’s impressive and sustained performance was a result of the Government’s good economic management and pro-growth policies. These macroeconomic policies and reforms, which have been in implementation since 1992, have been the essential foundation for long term economic growth and development. As a result, GDP grew at an average of 6.8% per annum in the 1990s and accelerated to about 8% per annum between 2000 and 2011. The recent slow-down in the pace of economic activities is attributed to a confluence of both domestic and external factors - the difficult global environment; regional geo-political factors (civil strife in Burundi, South Sudan and uncertain political future in the DR Congo), lower international commodity prices, unease in the global financial markets – in light of the ‘Brexit’ process and the political environment in the U.S, impact of adverse weather conditions on production, a slow-down in productivity growth and the slow pace of implementation of infrastructure investment projects.

Despite these un-favourable conditions - leading to less than the required annual growth rates necessary to transition Uganda into a middle income country the domestic economy has remained resilient. It has registered impressive but modest growth rates of 4.5% per annum in the last five years, which is higher than the average for sub-Saharan Africa. To rebound to the strong economic growth rates posted over the 20002011 period, Government has stepped up a number of interventions, including accelerating investments in critical public infrastructure (roads, railway, water ways and power), which are all aimed at boosting the pace of economic activities. Stable Macroeconomic Environment Maintaining low inflation is a crucial element of Uganda’s economic management program, because high inflation has negative effects on the economy. In particular, it increases uncertainty about future economic variables and thus discourages investment. High inflation also erodes away the real value of money and thus discourages savings. Therefore, maintaining a low and stable inflation is a pre-requisite for attracting private investment in long term productive assets. Since 1992, Uganda has been able to maintain macroeconomic stability by keeping a tight lid on budgetary expenditures. Over this period, Government has consistently avoided resorting to the central bank in order to finance its budget deficits, as was the case in the 1980s. In the last 30 years, Uganda has been able to control inflation, with average annual inflation remaining within single digits. During 2016, a pro-longed dry spell in most parts of the country affected food production and supply resulting to upward pressures on inflation (food accounts for a large share of the “consumer basket” in Uganda). However, the Central bank has been able to maintain control over inflation through tightening monetary policy and fiscal policy has been skewed towards ensuring that public spending does not exceed the appropriated budget, despite the pressures to do so.

Best of Uganda

Domestic savings and investments are important macro-economic variables for promoting employment opportunities thereby contributing to economic growth. National savings are currently at about 20.4% of GDP, of which 16.7% comes from individual households. The low saving rates limit the Government’s ability to finance a desirable share of its development plan from domestic resources. There are two main reasons for this low savings rate; First, the financial sector is not well developed, which forces people to save in non liquid assets. Second, is the inadequate domestic revenue effort - due to the existence of a large informal sector. The sector employs a large part of the population but has challenges when it comes to enforcement of tax laws. On the other hand, the current domestic investment rate of 27.8% seems to have created the momentum required to sustain the targeted average annual real GDP growth of 7% per annum envisaged under the five year National Development Plan. The growth target is hinged on the on-going interventions aimed at increasing the stock and quality of economic infrastructure.

Since 2011, fiscal policy has been geared towards scaling up the development of infrastructure in the critical areas of energy and transport, as well as other priority investments in order to remove the bottlenecks to private sector growth. This has somewhat resulted into acceleration in public sector borrowing. The stock of total public debt amounts to US$ 8.6 billion (as at end-June 2016) equivalent to 34.9% of GDP in nominal terms and 27% of GDP in present value (PV) terms (global comparison in terms of sustainability is in PV terms). Based on this measurement, Uganda’s debt remains sustainable at 27% of

GDP compared to a threshold of 50% of GDP beyond which debt becomes unsustainable. This is also the benchmark for macroeconomic convergence within the East African Community. The Government continues with its cautious external borrowing policy so as to prevent its debt from reaching unsustainable levels, hence, negatively impacting on its social-economic gains. Uganda has continued to build healthy foreign reserves and diversify its export base: The stock of international reserves amounted to US$ 2.96 billion as at the end of June 2016, representing a cover

Uganda continues to maintain sustainable debt levels, following the adoption of a cautious external borrowing policy. Following the economic mismanagement and indiscriminate borrowing in the 1970s and 1980s, Uganda’s debt spiraled out of control and became unsustainable. The country was classified as heavily indebted and poor (HIPC) in the early 1990s which necessitated a number of reforms and actions – including having to qualify for debt relief, in order to restore debt to sustainable levels. By 2006, the country was no longer in the HIPC category, after having paid all its commitments to the major multi-lateral and bilateral creditors. Following this, the country put in place a strong legal framework which is backed up by a robust public debt management framework to guide debt operations.

Best of Uganda

of 4.7 months on imports of goods and services and in line with the EAC requirement of at least 4 months. The structure of the Uganda’s export sector has exhibited a significant diversification over the last 16 years, reducing reliance on primary commodities such as coffee as its main foreign exchange earners. Coffee export earnings have dropped by half from 28% in 2001 to 14% in 2016, while the share of non-coffee earnings has risen from 72% to 86% in 2016. Non coffee exports include; cotton, flowers, fish & fish products, tea, cocoa, base metal products and cement. Agriculture – backbone of the economy Uganda is endowed by fertile land, surrounded by a number of fresh water bodies. With about 56% of the arable land in East Africa, the country presents huge investment opportunities in large commercial farming in coffee, tea, cotton, grains, fish and diary. There are also opportunities in value addition, with a ready market within the region and beyond. Government is keen to leverage the agricultural sector to support economic growth and employment creation and has secured markets for agricultural products in the U.S, Europe, China and India. To further facilitate investment in this sector, Government has tax incentives in place aimed at persons and firms engaged in value addition.

Attractive Investment Destination Uganda is strategically located within East Africa, bordering and inter-linked to five other economies, which makes it well placed to exploit the regional market. It is a “business hub” for south Sudan, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo and presents abundant investment opportunities, especially in agriculture, energy and infrastructure. In addition, the country’s membership to the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the African Union and the World Trade Organization (WTO) provides her with access to high end-markets in Africa and beyond which have played an important role in diversifying the export basket and adding value to the traditional export commodities. Uganda has been rated as one of the most attractive investment destinations in East Africa. This is linked with the increased Government interventions aimed at economic diversification and the favorable policies to attract inward investment. The country has liberalized all sectors of the economy, has got a strong natural resource base and a commitment to the private sector by the Government. The business operating environment allows the full repatriation of profits after the mandatory taxes have been paid, as well as full foreign ownership of private investments. The incentive regime is structurally embedded within the country’s legal framework making them non discriminatory and accessible to both domestic and foreign investment depending on the sector and level of investment. The minimum capital investment required for a foreign investor to be eligible to invest in the country in virtually any sector, apart from those that may compromise the country’s security, is US$100,000. And in order to provide a conducive environment for doing business in Uganda, a One Stop Centre (OSC) for business registration and licensing has been created. The Centre also assists prospecting investors in tax registration, immigration and work permit issues, land acquisition and verification, as well as environmental compliance and approvals. Accessing these services under one roof saves the investor both time and money to have their projects licensed and implemented expeditiously. Thriving Financial Sector Uganda’s financial system has gone through reforms since the early 1990s. These reforms were intended to strengthen and broaden the financial system, as well as to enhance competition in the financial system. As a result, the financial system soundness and efficiency has greatly improved. In spite of an increase in non-performing loans and a decline in credit growth during 2016, the banking sector in Uganda remains strongly capitalized, with capital adequacy requirements far exceeding the statutory minimum requirements, which offers a high degree of resilience against systemic distress. An important point to make is that the decline in non-performing loans is not only confined to Uganda but has been the case for the region as a whole and across the continent during this period. This notwithstanding, the central bank’s macro stress tests indicate that the banking system is able to withstand plausible shocks to credit quality because of the large capital buffers it holds. While significant progress has been made on increasing financial access – a key financial sector development indicator, a significant proportion of the population remains without access to formal banking services. Financial inclusion is central to the national development agenda, given its integral role in the realization of inclusive and sustainable growth. Uganda has stepped-up initiatives geared towards increasing access and usage of appropriate financial services to the entire population. The initiatives are focused on five areas; (i) reducing financial exclusion and access barriers to financial

Best of Uganda

services; (ii) developing and improving the credit infrastructure; (iii) expanding digital infrastructure for efficiency; (iv) deepening and broadening formal savings, investment and insurance usage; and (v) empowering and protecting individuals with enhanced financial capability. The end game of financial inclusion is not just having more people with accounts, who are making transfers and are getting loans but rather about reducing poverty and the economic security of families through usage of affordable financial services. In order to extend usage and access to financial services, the banking sector is increasingly leveraging information technology platforms. In particular, the use of mobile money services has brought access to basic payment services within reach to millions of Ugandans without access to formal banking channels, which has revolutionalised the banking sector. Most notably, banks are now using mobile platforms to enable customers to conveniently and remotely transact on their bank accounts. There are currently about 20 million registered on the various forms of mobile platforms in Uganda, which is more than half of the entire population. Between 2015 and 2016, the number of mobile transactions increased by 43% to 809 million, while the value of the transactions

increased by 41%. Over the years, Government of Uganda has put in place regulatory measures over the years aimed at enhancing financial sector innovation and performance. In addition, Government is also actively working with industry players to advance the use of digital financial services as a vehicle to achieve financial inclusion for all.

Trade and Regional Integration The level of openness to trade of the Ugandan economy has been rising. The openness of Ugandan economy with respect to international trade as measured by the ratio of exports plus imports of goods and services to GDP has been rising over time from 34.7% in 2001 to 46.8% in 2016. This level is bound to increase further with the economic transformation envisaged under the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s long term development agenda â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Vision 2040, and as the country continues to attract FDI and deepen its investment reforms. The long term agenda is actualized through a 5 year development plan (NDP II) which prioritizes investment in the five areas with the greatest multiplier effect; namely, agriculture; tourism; minerals, oil and gas; infrastructure development; and human capital development.

Uganda has been at the forefront of promoting regional integration, as one of the major strategies for widening the market, investment opportunities and strengthening her bargaining power in the international market. The East African Community (EAC) is regarded as one of the most integrated trading blocks on the continent and is at the heart of the integration efforts although the country remains actively engaged in other efforts aimed at boosting economic growth and meeting other social development targets for the African region as a whole. Within the EAC, significant progress has been made on strengthening regional integration, with a number of Protocols (the Common Market, Customs Union and Monetary Union) concluded. The protocols pave way for free movement of goods, labor, capital and technology transfer within the region, and right of establishment with multiplier effects on domestic demand. The EAC region gives Uganda access to a market of more than 150 million people, with a combined GDP of US$ 146 billion and presents substantial opportunities to the Ugandan private sector. Following the commencement of the Customs Union in 2005, Ugandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exports to the EAC region have increased six-fold from US$ 128 million in 2004 to US$ 768

Best of Uganda

million. Not only has the value of exports to the region increased, the country has increasingly gained in terms of the share of the markets. Deeper regional integration will raise productivity and reduce costs, and thereby facilitate higher exports. Extractives Sector - a new economic lifeline The minerals sub-sector and the recently discovered commerciallyviable oil and gas reserves present great potential for driving Ugandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s next phase of economic and social transformation. More than 80% of the country has been surveyed for mineral quantities and locations. The geo-data shows that Uganda has large under-exploited mineral deposits of gold, high grade tin, tungsten/wolfram, salt, beryllium, cobalt, kaolin, iron-ore, glass sand, vermiculite, phosphates, uranium and rare earth elements. There are also significant quantities of clay and gypsum. With these deposits, the country offers investment opportunities in mining and mineral processing, and has put in place special incentives to investors in the mining sector. The discovery of extractable quantities of oil and gas in the Lake Albert region in 2006 enhanced the sectorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vitality to Ugandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development. Since then, the country has put in place appropriate legal and regulatory frameworks to ensure that these resources are utilized in a manner that creates lasting value to all Ugandans. Government is working with the private sector to fast track infrastructure development for the commercialization of these resources, which will include a green-field refinery and crude export pipeline to the coast through Tanzania, as well as attendant infrastructure. During the development phase, the oil and gas sector is expected to be a key driver for employment creation and GDP growth, with expenditures projected to amount to US$ 20 billion. In addition, lifeline industries are expected to spur growth in manufacturing, infrastructure development, agriculture and ICT industries. Oil production is scheduled for 2020.

Best of Uganda

Tourism Destination Over the years, tourism is increasingly becoming instrumental in socio-economic development of the country. According to data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), tourism contributed US$ 969 million (or 3.8%) to Uganda’s GDP in 2015 and it is projected to rise by 6.4% per annum over the medium term. Uganda’s ranking in travel and competitiveness improved two (2) places in 2015. Improvements have been registered in the areas of safety and security, business environment, international openness, ICT readiness, culture resources and tourism prioritization. The country has been named by US-based CNN and UK-based Rough Guides among the world’s top five tourism destinations in 2017, and has also been featured in the world renowned National Geographic and Lonely Planet publications. Uganda offers a wide range of unique tourism products, it is the ideal place for quiet and peaceful safaris - it has a variety of rare wildlife and has more than a thousand species of birds, representing 10% of the world’s bird population. Two (2) of the country’s ten (10) national parks – Bwindi impenetrable national park in the south west and Kidepo national park in the north east, have been ranked among the top five national parks to visit in Africa by CNN travel magazine. The national parks boast of, amongst others, rare species of flora and fauna, as well as mammals. Uganda is home to more than half of the worlds remaining mountain gorillas – the rarest species globally. Beyond the wild-life, the country has got unique landscapes, mountains, various waters falls and rapids, which among others, offers spectacular and world-class rafting, hiking, mountaineering and lots of other tourist experiences. The country is also home to the largest free-standing volcano – Mt Elgon and the source of the river Nile – the world’s longest river. Uganda is endowed with varied cultural sites, monuments and antiquities that define our

heritage. With 56 indigenous communities, each with a distinct cultural heritage built over generations, visitors often discover the unique differences - such as diversity of languages and behaviors, all of which are rich in style and poetry and carry a lot of the oral history of the locals. Music, dance and drama are the products of this diversity – all local dances are entertaining and educative with a reflection of the ways of life. Ugandans have passed on their culture such as beliefs, traditions and values to generations, which are appreciated by the rest of the world - the legendary hospitality of the Ugandan people is a virtue passed on by cultural values. As such, Uganda offers some of the best known opportunities to experience the African culture. As an emerging tourism destination, Uganda has considerable potential for investment and growth in the sector. The country is teeming with untapped and low cost investment tourism attractions for those seeking investment opportunities. Uganda’s stable economic environment, liberalised economy, and commitment to the private sector also help create the ideal climate for investment.

Improving Human Development Indicators The country’s key human development indicators have been on an upward trend since the early 1990s. Significant progress has been made on many fronts in the last 25 years, which include; reducing poverty and hunger, reducing mortality and improving access to basic social services. This has largely been due to the increase in investments in the social development sector over the years. However, challenges remain associated with improving the quality of the social services. In addition, a significant proportion of Uganda’s population are young and under the age of 30. Most of them have attained a formal level of education and are capable of adapting new skills as demand rises. Government is keen on attracting investments that will generate employment for these youth. The national development plan (NDP II) has prioritized job creation and improving the quality of social services, as an integral part of tackling the challenges preventing the attainment of universal human development.

Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development 2-12 Apollo Kaggwa Road | P O Box 8147 Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256 414 707000 | Email: finance@finance.go.ug www.finance.go.ug.

Best of Uganda

« INVESTMENT » 54

Best of Uganda

CHAPTER 2 Best of Uganda

REASONS TO

INVEST IN UGANDA

During British colonial times, Uganda’s unique character and incomparable beauty were recognised by Sir Winston Churchill who described the country as the “The Pearl of Africa”, a phrase that is still used to describe Uganda today. Uganda is Africa condensed, with the best of everything the continent has to offer packed into one small but stunning destination. Here are just 20 of the many reasons to invest in Uganda:

Best of Uganda

Location: Strategically located at the heart of subSaharan Africa within the East African region astride the equator, Uganda has a population of almost 38 million. The country is bordered by Sudan in the north, Kenya in the east, Tanzania in the south, Rwanda in the southwest and the DRC in the west. This land-linked position makes the country a regional hub for trade and investment, as it provides a gateway into Central Africa and the Great Lakes region. It is also member of COMESA with a population of 390 million. Ease of business: It is easy to set up business through the One Stop Centre (OSC) for registration and licensing at the Uganda Investment Authority. The OSC also assists in tax advice and registration, immigration and work permit issues, as well as environmental compliance and approvals. Government is integrating all these into a One Stop Centre portal, eBiz (www.ebiz.go.ug).

Repatriation: The business operating environment allows the full repatriation of profits after the mandatory taxes have been paid, as well as 100% foreign ownership of private investments.

Open for investment: Uganda has a well regulated, highly liberalised economy in which all sectors are open for investment and there is free movement of capital to and from the country.

Safety: Security of investment is guaranteed by the constitution of the Republic of Uganda, the regulatory framework and international agreements signed by the government.

Big Brand presence: The returns on business are high. Visitors to this country will be pleasantly surprised to find that Ericsson, Toyota, Vodafone, Barclays Bank, Lafarge, CitiBank and India’s Tata, among many other international brands have made Uganda home for their regional business.

Tax incentives: The incentive regime is structurally embedded in the country’s tax laws making them non-discriminatory, accessible to both domestic and foreign investment depending on the sector and level of investment.

Returns: Return on investment is about 5% projected to increase to about 7% due to ongoing and planned infrastructural (roads, railway, energy) development.

Labour: Uganda’s labour is highly trainable, English speaking, has no labour tensions and the cost compares favourably in Africa. The literacy rate stands at 75% with 20,000 new college graduates per year.

10. Stability: Predictable and stable economic environment, growing on average at 5 to 7% per annum. This is due to effective macro-economic policies that have maintained economic growth at an average of 6.5% and enabled the country to withstand external economic shocks during the global economic downturn from 2008 to 2011 - during which the economy still grew by 3%! 11. Stable inflation: Inflation has now stabilised at 6.6% after the global economic downturn against which the Uganda economy was resilient and continued to attract foreign direct investment. 12. Growth forecasts: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecasts “11 of the World’s fastest growing economies of over 5% (including Uganda) through to 2017, will be in Africa”. 13. Reform: The World Bank Doing Business Report 2016 recognises Uganda among the top reformers of the year, with only 24 of 189 economies receiving this recognition. Uganda attained 122nd position out of 189 economies - an improvement of 13 places from the previous year. 14. Economic freedom: Uganda has been ranked highly over the years among the countries with economic freedom within sub-Saharan Africa by the Index of Economic Freedom.

Best of Uganda

15. Quality of life: Ugandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s quality of life is good. For foreign investors who want to live in Uganda, disruption to everyday life is minimal. There are international schools, hospitals and other social amenities available. Even those who enjoy fast food will be able to find a KFC or Pizza Hut somewhere in Kampala, Uganda! 16. Friendliness: Ugandans are a very warm and welcoming people, showing a genuine interest in visitors. 17.

Leadership: The countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s political and economic environment has been consistently improving and stable since 1986. Under the leadership of H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Uganda has been a stabilising force in the region, which has provided a secure environment for business to thrive.

18. Resources: Uganda is resource rich. There are significant commercial amounts of mineral resources as well as oil and gas, a relatively new industry.Â The soils are very fertile and the climate permits two cropping seasons per year. 19. Trade: Trading in Uganda provides the opportunity for duty and quota free access into China (quota free access for over 650 products), the USA (AGOA), Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) scheme and EU (EBA) markets. 20. Investment incentives: Include duty-free import of plant and machinery; capital allowances of 50-75% on plant and machinery; allowances on expenditure on scientific research, training and mineral exploration of 100%; initial allowance on industrial buildings of 20%; depreciation rate for industrial buildings of 5%; and depreciation for other assets ranging from 20-40%. 58

Best of Uganda

INVESTING IN UGANDA

Uganda has a population of 35 million people and a growing middleincome class with reasonable expendable income. The country may enjoy a multi-climate which varies seasonally and according to region, but its investment climate is comparatively more stable and constant.

But just as the seasons’ offerings range from snowcapped mountains in the East during winter, to the temperate highlands of Western Uganda and tropical forests of the Central region, to the semi-arid North East, so too is there an ideal investment opportunity for a variety of investors. Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) is the Government agency mandated to promote and facilitate investments in Uganda; as the first point of contact for any potential investor where a One Stop Center (OSC) caters for business registration, licensing, facilitation and aftercare services under one roof. UIA’s main functions include: • To promote and facilitate investments in Uganda; • Assist in the acquisition of Agricultural and Industrial land when required; • Assist in organising itineraries for visiting foreign business missions in the country; • Facilitate and enhance Small and Medium Enterprises to grow and link to multi-national entities for business; • Issue Investment licences; • Review and make policy recommendations to Government about investment; • Broker Joint Venture partnerships; • Provide aftercare services to existing investors.

Investment Climate • Uganda has maintained political and social stability since 1986; • Effective macro-economic policies maintained economic growth at an average of 6.5% and enabled the country to withstand external economic shocks during the global economic downturn from 2008 to 2011, during which the economy still grew by 3%; • Natural resource-rich country (human resources and minerals); • Liberalised foreign exchange regime; • Consistently improving infrastructure; • Trainable and fast adaptable workforce from over 30 universities; • Welcoming population; • No labour tensions; • A number of beneficial tax incentives, deductions and exemptions are in place; • Dedicated Commercial and Industrial courts for quick resolution of business disputes. Uganda is a member of a number of treaties and agreements, such as COMESA (a market of about 400 million people in 19 countries), the EAC (a population of over 140 million people), as well as the COMESAEAC-SADC Tripartite Free Trade Area.

Best of Uganda

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES AGRICULTURE / AGRIBUSINESS Uganda is among the leading producers of coffee, bananas and oil seed crops (sesame/simsim), soybean, sunflower, etc). It is also a major producer of other crops like tea, cotton, organic cotton, tobacco, cereals, fresh fruit and vegetables, nuts, essential oils, flowers, poultry, and fresh water fish. Opportunities for investment exist in: • Commercial farming in both crops and animal industries, as well as aquaculture; • Value addition (Agro-industries, Agro-food industries); • Manufacturing of inputs (fertilizers, pesticides etc.); • Cold storage facilities and logistics; • Farm Machinery manufacturing and assembly; • Packaging; • Irrigation Schemes.

The nation is also a signatory to the AGOA act with the USA. A tax official in the OSC is available to assist and offer tax advice. Applications for Tax Identification Numbers (TIN) can be done on-line and the guidelines can be accessed via the URA website (www.ura.go.ug). Land for investment The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development is mandated “To ensure a rational, sustainable and effective use and management of land and orderly development of urban and rural areas as well as safe, planned and adequate housing for socio-economic development”. It has two departments that are directly related to land acquisition for investment: The Department of Land Administration; and the Department of Land Registration. A Land Registrar in the OSC is always at hand to guide and facilitate investors on land leasing and registration requirements during the land acquisition procedures (www.mlhud.go.ug). 62

Best of Uganda

TOURISM The distinctive attraction of Uganda as a tourist destination arises from the variety of its game stock (including the rare tree climbing Lions of Ishasha, White Rhinoceros, Gorillas, and Elephant), as well as its unspoiled scenic beauty including forests, hills and mountains, rivers and lakes. Over 50% of the world’s known population of mountain gorillas live in Uganda. Uganda is also home to 11% of the world’s bird species (a total of 1060 bird species). The opportunities in tourism range from constructing high-quality accommodation facilities, operating tours and travel circuits (bicycle tours, air balloon travel, marine – Lake Victoria and river rafting on the River Nile), to the development of specialised eco and community tourism systems, as well as faith-based tourism (pilgrimage to Namugongo – Uganda Martyrs, Mahatma Gandhi Statute and Bishop Hannington landing site on the Nile River).

Best of Uganda

MINING Over 80% of the country has been surveyed for mineral quantities and locations. New geo-data shows that Uganda has large under-exploited mineral deposits of gold, oil, high grade tin, tungsten/wolfram, salt, beryllium, cobalt, kaolin, iron-ore, glass sand, vermiculite, phosphates (agricultural fertilizer), Uranium and rare earth elements. There are also significant quantities of clay and gypsum. Gold occurs in many areas of the country, including Busia in the east, Buhweju and Kigezi in the west, Mubende â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kiboga in the central region and significant occurrences in Karamoja in the north east. Investment opportunities exist in mining and mineral processing. Uganda provides special incentives to the mining sector with some capital expenditures being written off in full (www.energyandminerals.go.ug). OIL AND GAS Discovery of extractable quantities of oil and gas in the Lake Albert region has revived the sector. According to the Petroleum Exploration and Production Department, 21 oil and/or gas discoveries have been made in the country to date. Petroleum laws are in place and a

Best of Uganda

communication desk to disseminate information related to the oil and gas sector was created within the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development. Investment opportunities are available in middle and down streams in the Sector (www.petroleum.go.ug). RENEWABLE ENERGY POWER POTENTIAL Uganda has considerable unexploited renewable energy resources for energy production and provision of energy services. The overall Government vision for the role of renewable energy in the national economy is to make modern renewable energy a substantial part of the national energy consumption. The goal of Uganda Renewable Energy Policy is to increase the use of modern renewable energy from below 5% in 2007 to 61% of the total energy consumption by 2017. INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) Uganda’s ICT sector is one of the most vibrant within the region and the fastest growing sector in the economy. This vibrancy hinges largely on the good legal and regulatory frameworks. The supportive investment climate therein has exposed numerous opportunities in ICT innovation services leading to maximum utilisation of the existing youthful human resource base as quite suitable for the ICT work. The newly developed and highly qualitative ICT infrastructure is also ready to accommodate more future investments. Uganda is now connected to three marine fibre optic cables running around African eastern coast in the Indian Ocean. Uganda is positioning itself to be the hub for Business Processing and Management Outsourcing industry within the region on Africa’s Eastern coast. Numerous Investment Opportunities exist in the local, regional and international markets. The largest of the Uganda Business Process Outsourcing, Information Technology and Information Technology Enabling Services Industry opportunities are within Agriculture, Health, Tourism, Banks insurance and public administration. MANUFACTURING Uganda’s manufacturing sector presents various opportunities in virtually all areas ranging from beverages, leather, tobacco based processing, paper, textiles and garments, pharmaceuticals, fabrication, ceramics, glass, fertilizers, plastic/PVC, assembly of electronic goods, hi-tech and medical products.

Best of Uganda

INFRASTRUCTURE Although significant efforts have been made to develop and rehabilitate the existing physical and non-physical infrastructure, potential investment opportunities exist in all national grids. These include: • Airports and Airdromes; • Railways, Roads and Bridges; • Urban Transport; • Power Generation; • Power Transmission; • Power Distribution; • Water and Sewage; • Irrigation Schemes. FINANCIAL SERVICES Opportunities for investment exist for international multinational banking groups particularly promoting new or innovative financial products (i.e. Mortgage finance, venture capital, merchant banking and leasing finance) and also micro finance saving institutions, especially to operate in rural areas. Insurance, in particular, is still a relatively young sector and offers several opportunities for investment.

Best of Uganda

EDUCATION Uganda runs high-quality courses in English at relatively cheaper costs than other education destinations and is dedicated to making investment in the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s knowledge hub a unique experience and a win-win situation for both investors and students. Investment opportunities therefore exist in Uganda for setting up Public and independent private universities, branch universities and offshore campuses. Other areas of investment include technical & vocational training, distance learning, student financing, and research centres in tropical medicine and medical tourism.

HEALTH A good percentage of health facilities are privately owned and the private sector provides a recognisable output especially in services delivered. Uganda has a growing population and therefore has increased investment needs in the health sector. While Government and development partners focus on communicable diseases, there is a need for innovation and private sector participation. This has created investment opportunities in health management, human resource training, e-health solutions and logistics, tertiary care services, early detection, treatment, medical tourism and manufacturing of affordable equipment and other centres of excellence provide more investment opportunities.

Uganda Investment Authority TWED Plaza, Plot 22B Lumumba Avenue | Tel: +256 414 301000 Email: info@ugandainvest.go.ug |www.ugandainvest.go.ug

Best of Uganda

PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS UNIT

Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development Public Private Partnerships Unit (PPPU): The Public Private Partnerships Unit (PPP Unit) is an Institution established by an Act of Parliament within the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development of Uganda. The Unit is headed by a Director and is fully functional. The Unit reports to the PPP Committee for technical matters and to the Permanent Secretary/Secretary to the Treasury on Finance and Administrative matters. The key functions of the PPP Unit are to; a. Serve as the secretariat and technical arm of the PPP Committee; and b. Provide technical, financial and legal expertise to the Committee, Contracting Authorities and four other stakeholders in the implementation of the PPP activities in the country. In accordance with the PPP Act 2015, the PPP Unit is mandated to: a. Serve as a resource centre on matters relating to PPPs;

Best of Uganda

b. Conduct civic education to promote the awareness and understanding of the PPP process amongst stakeholders; c. Provide Capacity building to, and advise contracting authorities or other parties involved in the planning, coordinating, undertaking or monitoring of PPP projects; d. Rate, compile and maintain an inventory of prospective PPP projects that are highly rated and which are likely to attract private sector investment; e. Develop an open, transparent, efficient and equitable process for managing the identification, screening, prioritization, development, procurement, implementation and monitoring of projects, and ensure that the process is applied consistently to all projects; f. Conduct research and gap analysis to ensure continuous improvement in the implementation of PPPs; g. Collate, analyze and disseminate information including data on the contingent liabilities of the Government in relation to a PPP project; h. Make recommendations to the PPP Committee for consideration;

i. Assist contracting authorities to design, identify, select, prioritize, appraise, evaluate and negotiate projects; j. Liaise with, and assist the contracting authorities, where the Unit considers it necessary to design, identify, select, prioritize, appraise, evaluate and negotiate projects; k. Maintain a record of all project documentation; l. Review and assess requests for Government support in relation to a project and advise the PPP Committee on the support that should be accorded in relation to the project; m. Assist the PPP Committee in formulating guidelines and standard documentation required; n. Liaise with, and assist the contracting authorities in their roles in the various stages of a projects cycle; o. Ensure that the procurement process relating to a project conforms to the Act and to procurement best practices; p. Put in place measures to eliminate the constraints that limit the realization of benefits expected from PPP; q. Monitor contingent liabilities and accounting and budgetary issues related to PPPs with the relevant offices in the Ministry of Finance. Public Private Partnerships Committee (PPPC): The PPPC is a body established by the PPP Act and comprises of; a. The Attorney General or a person appointed by him or her in writing; b. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry responsible for finance or his or her representative; c. The Permanent Secretary of the office of the Prime Minister or his or her representative; d. A representative of the National Planning Authority; e. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry responsible for Lands or his or her representative; f. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry responsible for Local Government or his or her representative;

Best of Uganda

g. A Director of the PPPU; h. Four persons who shall not be public officers consisting of; »» A representative of the Private Sector Foundation; »» A representative of the Uganda Investment Authority; »» A representative of the academia; and »» A retired Judge. The PPPC has been established and fully functional with a mandate to; a. Ensure that each project agreement is consistent with the provisions of the PPP Act; b. Formulate policy on PPPs; c. Ensure that all projects are consistent with the national priorities specified in the Public Private Partnerships Policy Framework; d. Approve project proposals submitted to it by a contracting authority; e. Authorize allocations from the Fund; f. Formulate standards, guidelines and procedures for awarding contracts and bid documents; g. Examine and approve feasibility studies conducted by a contracting authority under the PPP Act; h. Review the legal, institutional and regulatory framework of PPPs; i. Approve the organizational structure of the Unit; j. Oversee the Monitoring and Evaluation by Contracting Authorities of a PPP from commencement to post completion stage; k. Ensure approval of, and fiscal accountability in the management of, financial and any other form of support granted by the Government in the implementation of projects under the Act; l. Ensure the efficient implementation of any project entered into by contracting authorities; and m. Perform any other functions as may be conferred on it by the PPP Act. The PPP Act also gives power to the PPP Committee to oversee the 70

Best of Uganda

implementation of PPP policies, request any information from any party to a project on any matter relating to PPPs, take custody of a Project Agreement made under the PPP Act as well as monitor compliance with the terms and conditions of the PPP Agreement. What is a Public Private Partnership? The PPP Act, 2015 defines a PPP as a commercial transaction between a Contracting Authority and a Private Party where the Private Party performs a function of a Contracting Authority on behalf of the Contracting Authority, for a specified period, and; a. Acquires the use of the property, equipment or other resource of the Contracting Authority for the purposes of executing the Agreement; b. Assumes substantial financial, technical and operational risks in connection with the performance of the function or use of the property; or c. Receives a benefit for performing the function through payment by the Contracting Authority or charges for fees collected by the Private Party from users of the infrastructure or services, or both. Scope of Public Private Partnerships According to the PPP Act 2015, PPPs shall apply to the Design, Construction, Maintenance and Operation of infrastructure or services provided under the following projects; a. Road, rail, subway, water and air transport facilities, including harbor and port facilities, airports and airport facilities; b. Information and computer technology, telecommunication and telecommunication works; c. Social infrastructure, including health facilities, correctional facilities, education facilities. Accommodation facilities, public housing and court facilities; d. Water management facilities, including dams and water storages, water supply and distribution systems, irrigation and drainage systems and sanitation, sewerage and waste management systems; e. Oil pipeline, gas pipelines and gas storage, refinery, conveyance and distribution facilities; f. Energy related facilities and other facilities for generation, preservation, transmission and distribution of electricity; g. Sports and recreational facilities. Sports grounds and space for sports and recreation, including facilities for recreational, sports and cultural activities; h. Tourist infrastructure facilities; i. Extraction and processing of mineral raw materials; Best of Uganda

j. Agricultural processing industries; or k. Any other project as the Minister may, by statutory instrument approve. *For a project to qualify for implementation as a PPP it must fulfill the objectives of the National Development Plan. Why Public Private Partnerships? Governments world over are faced with budget constraints and have adopted PPPs as a strategy to deliver infrastructure projects. In the same vein, the Government of Uganda has adopted PPPs as a key strategy for partnering with the private sector to deliver public infrastructure projects and related services to attain Economic Growth and Development. Well-structured Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) are expected to; a. Help Government leverage Private Sector expertise, innovations and efficiency; b. Raise alternative financing for infrastructure projects that would otherwise not be implemented by Government due to limited resource envelope; c. Provide better integration of Design, Operation and Maintenance of infrastructure projects in the contractual arrangements; d. Optimal transfer of project risks across Government and private sector; e. Whole life approach to service delivery (whole life costing and better value for money).

Best of Uganda

Principles of PPPs According to the PPP Policy 2010 & PPP Act 2015, the design and implementation of PPPs is governed by the following principles: a. Ensuring Value for money, by optimal allocation of risks to private parties and maximization of the benefits to be obtained from expertise and financing by private parties; b. Protection and respect of the rights and interests of users of the infrastructure or services offered under a project; c. Ensuring that the procurement of a PPP does not restrict competition among the bidders and that it is conducted on equal terms and uses objective criteria; d. Accountability of the Contracting Authority to the users of the infrastructure or service to be offered under a project; e. Promotion of the participation of Ugandans as Private Parties in PPPs; f. Ensuring that the terms and conditions of service of the employees affected by a project are in accordance with the relevant laws; g. Protection of the intellectual property of bidders at all stages of a project; h. Stimulating growth and development through harnessing private sector innovation and efficiency; i. Providing policy stability in order to reduce private sector uncertainty on investment returns; j. Developing institutional capacities for technical analysis, negotiation, monitoring and management of PPP contracts.

Public Private Partnerships Process The PPP Act clearly stipulates the process that should be followed in the development and implementation of all PPP Projects. The steps are as follows: Key Players in the Public Private Partnerships Process a. PPP Unit: Serves as a resource centre and technical arm of the PPPC and Contracting Authorities on matters relating to PPPs. b. PPP Committee: Overall oversight body for the implementation of the PPP program in the country. The PPPC is responsible for approving PPP project proposals and feasibility studies. c. Contracting Authority: Means a Ministry, Government Department or any other body established by the Government and mandated to carry out a public function. Contracting Authority is responsible for identifying, appraising, developing, procuring and monitoring PPP projects in accordance with the Act. d. Accounting Officer: Means a person designated as such to perform such a function under the PPP Act. Accounting Officer is responsible for initiating PPP projects and oversees structuring and implementations of PPP projects as well as appoint a Project Officer, Project Team and Transaction Advisors. e. Project Officer: Assists the Accounting Officer in the overall implementation of the PPP project and heads the Project Team. f. Project Team: Specialized Team appointed by the Accounting Officer from within the Contracting Authority with representatives from the PPPU, Attorney Generalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office, Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development and any other relevant stakeholder within Government. The Project Team is responsible for identification, screening and prioritization of projects and monitoring the implementation of Project Agreement. g. Process Auditor: Appointed by the Accountant General to ensure that the Design, Structuring and Implementation of the PPP Project by the Contracting Authority is in compliance with the PPP Act. h. Evaluation Committee: Appointed by the Accounting Officer. It comprises of officials from the Contracting Authority with technical skills required for bid evaluation. The Committee may include other persons from outside the Contracting Authority. The Evaluation Committee is responsible for Bid evaluation. i. Transaction Advisor (TA): Is a specialized team of experts procured under the PPDA Act to assist the Contracting Authority to undertake comprehensive feasibility studies, prepare bid documents, draft PPP Agreements and any other PPP technical support required by the Contracting Authority.

j. Private Party: Shall be a Special Purpose Company (SPC) incorporated under the laws of Uganda. k. Cabinet: Comprises all ministries chaired by His Excellence, The President or Prime Minister. The role of Cabinet is to approve PPP Agreements prior to signature by the Accounting Officer. l. Auditor General: Auditor Generalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office is established by the National Audit Act. The Auditor General is mandated to audit all Government projects including PPP projects as provided for in the National Audit Act. The Auditor General can also conduct specialized audits where necessary. m. Accountant General: An office within the Ministry of Finance responsible of ensuring that the presentation of the financial statements of PPP Projects is in compliance with International Accounting Standards (IAS) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

n. Attorney General: An office within the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. The Attorney General is the Governments Legal Advisor and is responsible for the review and clearance of draft PPP Agreements and provision of legal opinion to Government on the PPP agreements. o. Ministry of Finance, Planning & Economic Development: Responsible for the overall Budgetary and Treasury functions. The Minister of Finance must provide a written confirmation that financing of the project shall be available for implementing the PPP project by the Contracting Authority. p. Parliament: One of the Executive Arms of Government responsible for approval or multiyear commitments for projects detailed in the Budget Framework Paper. The functions of each of the above key players are stipulated in the PPP Act.

For more information please contact the Director of the PPP Unit on +256 414707000 Ministry of Finance Planning and Economic Development Finance Building, Plot 2-12 Apollo Kaggwa Road | P.O.Box 8147 Kampala - Uganda Email: finance@finance.go.ug | www.finance.go.ug.

Best of Uganda

UGANDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CAPITAL MARKETS, THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE! The Past... Uganda is one of the few African countries with a functional capital market. Established in 1996 through the enactment of the Capital Markets Authority Act Cap 84, the capital market was formed with the objective of building a market for the world to sell securities and raise capital. Ugandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s privatization process which started in the early 1990s was also a precursor for the establishment of a capital market since Government of Uganda which owned numerous enterprises at the time, wanted to relinquish ownership in these companies to private individuals so that the companies can better be managed. Government

Best of Uganda

intended to focus more on providing social services and developing the social – economic infrastructure, leaving business to the private sector. Furthermore, there was a strong desire to enable Ugandans ownership into the success of the businesses that were previously run by Government, and help them create wealth; this could only happen if the sale of these companies was done through a stock exchange. The Capital Markets Authority Act Cap 84 established the Capital Markets Authority (CMA), a Government body that is mandated to oversee the regulation, promotion and development of the industry. Subsequently, CMA approved the first stock exchange in 1997, now called the Uganda Securities Exchange (USE), which operated an open outcry trading system until recently. USE hosted the very first listing in Uganda in January 2000 for the country’s oldest and largest construction materials company, Uganda Clays Limited. The listing of Uganda Clays commenced the sale of shares of a domestic public company through a stock exchange.

by selling shares through the Uganda and Nairobi stock markets. The eight Ugandan companies have raised a total of UGX581billion through floating of shares, with another nine companies raising UGX293-billion from issuance of corporate bonds, which have also been listed on the USE. Additionally, the Ugandan bourse has

attracted eight cross listings from the Nairobi Securities Exchange which have been instrumental in boosting the profile of our capital market. While cross listings are good for extending opportunities to investors across borders, they have not been very effective in increasing activity on the Ugandan stock market because most of the cross listed companies did not transfer

The Present… To date, the industry boasts of eight domestic listings, seven of which were a result of the sale of former Government owned companies conducted under the public enterprises reforms and divesture programme. The seven companies are Uganda Clays Limited, British American Tobacco Limited, Bank of Baroda, DFCU Limited, New Vision Printing and Publishing Company, Stanbic Bank Uganda and National Insurance Corporation. The most recent and only private company to list was power distributor, Umeme Limited, which sought to raise US$66-million and was oversubscribed by more than 35%. Equally, all the previous Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) had been oversubscribed, a general indication of the investment appetite created by IPOs. Umeme was previously owned by a British investment firm, Act is, which sought to exit this investment

Best of Uganda

actual shares to the USE, thus making it difficult for Ugandan investors to access these shares. To increase participation, Collective Investment Schemes (CIS), a product which provides an avenue for small savers to pool resources together for investing in the primary capital markets products (shares, bonds) was introduced. This has indirectly grown the number of investors and provided an alternative through which the market can be accessed. Today, for as low as US$ 28, one can ably invest in a CIS product. In 2015, the CMA approved a second securities exchange, Alt-X East Africa Limited which had offered a wide range of products including depository 76

Best of Uganda

receipts and asset backed securities. To date, both the USE and Alt-X operate automated trading systems which make trading more efficient and quicken the settlement process. As a signatory to the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) Appendix A Multi-lateral Memorandum of Understanding, an achievement that can be closely linked to the recent amendment to the CMA Act, Ugandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital markets are now considered more transparent and competitive enough to attract international investors. It is important to note that Ugandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stock market is largely (over 90%) driven by foreign investors, and therefore it is critical that our operations meet the international

standards. Various regulations and guidelines which give effect to the parent Acts, (that is the CMA Act, as amended, the Collective Investment Schemes Act 2003, and the Securities Central Depositories Act 2009) have been developed to ensure that the industry is effectively governed through the legal mechanism, allowing for the effective protection of investors, while enabling development of the market. One of the key roles of the CMA as stipulated in the Act is investor education. This takes many forms and the Authority continues to work towards making the market more vibrant by educating the investing public about the benefits of investing, and local business owners about the benefits of raising patient long-term finance through the capital markets. The Future… Through the public education outreach programme, the CMA has reached out to over 16,000 individuals through face-to-face interactions with the message of investing in the capital markets, over the last three years only. This has to some extent increased the number of current investors, but also laid grounds for future IPOs. Within the same period, up to 300 business owners have been engaged about the possibility of raising long-term capital for expansion of their businesses, and these efforts will continue to drive our market development. Knowledge is vital for such decisions to be taken and therefore the significance of public education cannot be underestimated. Capital market operations require specialised, professional and well-trained persons to carry out the various activities such as trading, investment

advisory and management of funds. In light of this, a certification programme for industry players was introduced to increase the skills levels and expertise for the industry. This was done in partnership with the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments, United Kingdom. In the near future, all industry players will be expected to take the course so that they’re better equipped to facilitate activities within the market to ensure its growth and development. CMA will continue to play its “watchdog” role to ensure efficiency and integrity in the market. While it is critical that the regulator focuses on ensuring market safety, it is in our best interest to see to it that more businesses are facilitated to raise the much needed long-term capital. To this end, good corporate governance practices including proper financial reporting and accountability will be emphasised as a means of positioning businesses for the right financing. To sum it up, a ten-year industry masterplan that will better position capital markets to meet the development needs of Uganda through: diversification of the investor base; strengthening market infrastructure and intermediaries; establishing a more facilitative legal-regulatory framework; and encouraging fund raising among public and private entities has been drafted and will soon be launched. The vision of the strategy is a more regionally and internationally competitive market which is able to efficiently mobilise and allocate capital and is supported by an improved policy, legal, fiscal, regulatory and supervisory environment that will provide a more conducive environment for development.

8th Floor, Jubilee Insurance Centre, 14 Parliament Avenue P.O.Box 24565, Kampala - Uganda Tel: +256 414 342 788/91 | 312 264 950/1 | Fax: +256 414 342 803 Email: info@cmauganda.co.ug | www.cmauganda.co.ug

Best of Uganda

« BANKING & FINANCE » 78

Best of Uganda

CHAPTER 3 Best of Uganda

UGANDA DEVELOPMENT BANK Uganda Development Bank Limited (UDBL) is a public enterprise wholly owned by the government of Uganda and carrying on business as a Development Finance Institution (DFI).

Best of Uganda

UDBL has been in existence since 1972. It re-positioned itself as a key partner to the Government of Uganda in delivering its National Development Plan (NDP) in driving the economy to achieve Middle Income Status. In order to deliver this aspiration, the Bank focuses on the key growth sectors of the economy by financing development projects at attractive terms. The Bank’s loan portfolio has experienced positive growth trend over the last 5 years and offers short term, medium term and long term financing to Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and large scale projects. As a development bank, it targets priority sectors of the economy that are in a position to create a lasting socio-economic impact.

The Bank’s loan portfolio is spread across four major sectors namely: Primary Sector – comprises of forestry, mining and extractive and primary agriculture sub-sectors; Secondary Sector – comprises of agro-processing and manufacturing subsectors; Tertiary Sector – comprises of education, financial services, health and hotels, hospitality and tourisms subsectors; and Trade Services – comprises of trade and commerce.

Best of Uganda

SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IMPACT CREATED The Bank recognizes that development banks worldwide play a pivotal role in the development of countries. A development bank is able to contribute to the investments required to stimulate socio-economic development in the country. In spurring economic development, the Bank has made investments in the agriculture and agro processing sectors, hotel and tourism, education, health and manufacturing sub-sectors among others. Below is an analysis of the social and economic development impact created by the funding interventions made by the Bank in the key priority sectors;

a) Economic Development Impact

Below is an analysis of approvals and disbursements made by the Bank and the impact created as a result of the Bank supporting the underlying sub-sectors.

i) Supporting the primary Agriculture and Agro-processing sub-sectors Agriculture has been and remains central to Uganda’s economic growth and poverty reduction. It is a major source of raw materials for the Manufacturing sector, a market for non-agricultural output and a source of surplus for investment.

Government’s strategic investments for modernization of this sector will transform it into a springboard for socio-economic transformation. Accordingly, UDBL has provided financing across the entire value chain and is currently funding 53 projects with approved loan amounts of UGX 52.8 billion and with an outstanding exposure of UGX 43.4 billion as at 31 December 2016. Several farmer groups and cooperatives have

been supported in acquiring agricultural equipment, seedlings and modernized agriculture mechanisms to support or build sustainable agricultural practices. The farmers directly involved in groups funded by UDBL and other agriculture development projects have benefited from agricultural training. Skills acquired have been shared with other farmers within the community. With over 2,000 farmers and 3,000 community members having received training on agriculture in 2016, the production output and value of agriculture related projects has continued to improve as farmers practice modernized farming techniques. The impact created from funding projects in this sector is summarised below;

Primary Agriculture

Agro-processing

Other benefits realized from UDBL financing include: Improved livelihoods to farmer’s households. This has been a result of increased income resulting from sustainable projects that farmers and workers are part of and are supported by the bank. Farmers have also benefited from capital and entrepreneurship training that is accessible through farmer groups or associations supported by the bank. Some farmers within the community that

are not directly involved in UDBL funded projects have adopted some of the sustainable farming techniques that have been taught to farmers. There has also been an increase in produce because of the ready market provided by the associations or cooperatives that are funded by the Bank and which offer competitive prices to farmers.

Best of Uganda

ii) Supporting the Manufacturing sub-sector

iii) Supporting the Hotel and Tourism sub-sector

The Manufacturing sector is characterized by limited value addition with very few capital goods industries and very low utilization of manufacturing capacity. This is further manifested in the absence of manufactured products in the export basket. The Government is therefore keen on diversifying the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s manufacturing sector.

Under the NDP II, tourism is one of the sectors identified with great growth potential yet to be exploited. The sector has been prioritized given the fact that the required investments for the sector are low relative to the potential returns and it needs to be enhanced by Government and the private sector. The Government is expected to provide the necessary inputs like infrastructure to promote the sector. On the other hand, the private sector is expected to make investments in hotels, restaurants, and providing transport and tour services for the sector.

The Bank has therefore intervened in the sector by supporting 11 projects, with approved funding of UGX 64.3 billion and with an outstanding exposure of UGX 48.2 billion as at 31 December 2016. The impact thus created in 2016 was as follows:

The Bank has intervened in the sector and is currently financing 7 projects with approved loan amounts of UGX 7.4 billion and an outstanding exposure of UGX 6.07 billion as at 31st December 2016. The resultant impact created by the Bankâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s financing was as follows:

iv) Supporting the Trade Finance sub-sector The Bank seeks to creatively address financing gaps in the flow of goods and services between different actors in the various trade and related value chains. Our products are designed to meet the unique needs of our clients. The impact created from our financing included the following:

Best of Uganda

b) Social Development Impact Under the NDP II, Human Capital Development is one of the key fundamentals that need to be strengthened to accelerate the country’s transformation and harness the demographic dividend. Key areas under this priority are education and health where key interventions have been identified to help drive growth in these areas. The Bank has provided support to these sub-sectors as follows;

i) Supporting the Education sub-sector The Bank has funded over 20 projects and is currently providing approved financing of UGX 14 billion and having a net exposure of UGX 9.2 billion as at 31 December 2016. The impact created as a result of the Bank’s interventions includes the following: Other benefits realized include: The quality of education has improved with expanded or renovated infrastructure and facilities in order to provide a conducive teaching and learning environment for both teacher and students. Both teaching and nonteaching staff have benefited from training in entrepreneurship and vocational skills at some of the education institutions, with some of the skills learnt being used to generate secondary income to support their families and livelihoods. Local communities have also benefited from education institutions that have been set up within the community since there are services that are brought closer to the community like protected water sources, improvement on the quality of access roads to the institutions and improved security.

Best of Uganda

ii) Supporting the Health sub-sector The Bank has funded 3 projects under the Health sub-sector, providing approved financing of UGX 10 billion and having a next exposure of UGX 7.9 billion as at 31 December 2016. The impact created as a result of the Bank’s interventions is as follows:

Other benefits include: The quality and standard of health services provided at most funded health facilities has improved and some of the services that clients would have sought from other countries like Kenya and India can now be offered at the health facilities. However, this improvement in service provision is offered at a cost that is only affordable to high income classes. In some cases, some of the funded health facilities provided free or subsidized health services in 2016 as CSR activities to support health campaigns like The Fight against Cancer. There has been a growth in insurance providers in the Health sector. Insurance companies have partnered with some of the health facilities in a bid to provide medical insurance to people that are able to afford it.

Financial Sustainability

As a bank operating within the Ugandan economy and whose mandate is pivotal in promoting socioeconomic development in this country, we must ensure that we operate in a sustainable way. This will therefore allow us to pay dividends to our shareholders, salaries to our employees, tax to the Ugandan government as well as support local businesses through the procurement of goods and services. Below is the Bank’s Value Added Statement indicating the wealth that UDBL creates through its activities for our key stakeholders; these being the shareholders, employees, development partners and suppliers. It also illustrates how much we reinvest for future growth. The total wealth created by the Bank in 2016 was Ushs 25.1 billion as shown in the Value Added Statement below.

2016 Interest income Interest expense Wealth created from operations Foreign exchange gains Fee and commission income Other income Total wealth created

2015

Ushs ‘000

17,759,908

16,339,342

(272,782)

(135,927)

17,487,127

16,203,415

1,035,409

5,963,366

89,414

762,603

6,488,276

3,043,187

25,100,226

100

25,972,571

100

Distribution of wealth Retained for growth

6,449,237

1,911,186

Employees

7,276,886

6,043,446

Government

2,644,320

866,810

Suppliers

4,177,511

5,237,379

Impairment loss on financial assets

4,116,233

11,444,366

436,039

469,384

25,100,226

100

25,972,571

100

Depreciation and amortisation Total wealth distributed

CSR Creating Value through Partnerships

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives have overcome the stigma of being a distraction; something to be suffered. UDBL recognizes CSR as an opportunity to significantly strengthen our businesses – while building and renewing human, social and natural wealth. Finding the right partner is absolutely critical to the success of a CSR strategy and there are steps that can be taken to ensure a partnership co-creates value for both business and society. UDBL understands the importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and recognizes it as a tool to strengthen our relationships while contributing to society at the same time. In 2016, we continued to demonstrate our commitment to transform lives in communities through the following initiatives.

a) UDB in charity walk to support maternal and child health care

UDBL contributed towards the celebration of Bank of Uganda (BOU) 50 years of existence under the theme “Promoting Financial Stability. “ This celebration was marked with a series of events, one of which was a charity walk, held on 17th December 2016. All the proceeds from the

charity walk were used to raise funds to purchase maternal and child health care items for health centers in Arua, Gulu, Mbarara and Mbale. The Bank contributed UGX 500,000 towards this cause.

b) UDB brings smiles to Karambi Primary School

The staff of the Bank donated an assortment of clothing, scholastic materials and snacks on 10th June 2016 to Karambi Primary School, a week to The Day of the African Child. The staff efforts were matched with a cash donation from the Bank of UGX 3,000,000 to Mount Rwenzori Wonders, a community in Western Uganda that supports vulnerable children. The donation was towards school fees for 50 orphaned children and to help capitalise the income generating businesses of their guardians.

c) Uganda Development Bank Limited Supports

Kabaka’s Fistula Fund-raising Charity Golf The Bank was among the corporate organizations that sponsored events to commemorate His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda Muwenda Mutebi’s birthday whose proceeds went towards a deserving national health project. The Bank sponsored a team to the tune of UGX 500,000 as part of the Kabaka’s Fistula Fund Raising coordinated through Uganda Golf Club.

Plot 6 Nakasero Road. Rwenzori Towers, 1st Floor, Wing B | P.O.Box 7210, Kampala, Uganda Phone: +256 414 355 555 | Email: info@udbl.co.ug | www.udbl.co.ug

Best of Uganda

« OIL & GAS » 86

Best of Uganda

CHAPTER 4 Best of Uganda

UNOC: Taking the first steps towards a world class oil and gas company UNOC is Uganda National Oil Company and was established under Section 42 of the Petroleum (Exploration, Development and Production) Act (Upstream Act) and Section 7 of the Petroleum (Refining, Conversion, Transmission and Midstream Storage) Act (Midstream Act), both of 2013. It was incorporated under the Company’s Act of 2012 as a limited liability company wholly owned by the Government of Uganda. Mandate The mandate of UNOC is provided for in the Upstream Act as follows: 1. Handle the State’s commercial interests in the petroleum sub-sector; 2. Manage the marketing of the country’s share of petroleum; 3. Develop in-depth expertise in the oil and gas sector; 4. Optimize value to its shareholders; 5. Participate in joint ventures in which it holds an interest on behalf of the State; 6. Investigate and propose new upstream, midstream and downstream ventures initially locally but later internationally. The Company is intended to operate and grow into an oil company with international presence employing Ugandans with specialized skills all over the world wherever it will acquire and own acreage. It is also intended to operate as a private entity driven by commercial benefit as opposed to being run like a government parastatal. Governance Structure The Shareholders of UNOC are the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development (51%) and the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (49%) on behalf of Government. UNOC is governed through the Shareholders, a Board of Directors and an executive management team.

Mr. Emmanuel Katongole, Chairperson Board of Directors 88

Best of Uganda

The Board of Directors is chaired by Mr. Emmanuel Katongole. Other Board Members are: Mr. Francis Nagimesi, Eng. Irene Batebe, Mr. Francis Twinamatsiko, Hon. Grace Tubwita Bagaya, Mr. Godfrey Andama, and Ms. Stella Marie Biwaga.

The management team of UNOC is headed by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The team is composed of Dr. Josephine Wapakabulo (CEO); Ms. Proscovia Nabbanja (Chief Operations Officer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Upstream); Mr. Peter Muliisa (Chief Legal & Corporate Affairs); and Mr. Emmanuel Mugagga (Chief Finance Officer). The Company has also incorporated two wholly owned subsidiaries to manage its interests in the refinery, pipeline and storage terminals. What has been done: Incorporation of the Uganda Refinery Holding Company Ltd (URHC) and National Pipeline Company Uganda Limited (NPC(U)).The URHC has been incorporated and its General Manager, Dr Michael Nkambo Mugerwa was recruited in February 2017 and the subsidiary is operational. It is expected that the Refinery will be operational at first oil in 2020 and should in addition to supplying petroleum products to the Ugandan and regional market spur industrial growth in the Country. The

General Manager is tasked with overseeing a successful Refinery project for the benefit of the Country. The NPC (U) was incorporated in April 2017 and its General Manager, Mr. John Bosco Habumugisha recruited in June 2017. He is tasked with overseeing and managing UNOCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interests in pipelines and storage terminals. UNOC will have interests in the East African Crude Pipeline (EACOP) from Hoima to Tanga port as well other pipelines to be developed. UNOC will also have interests in planned as well as existing storage terminals. All these interests will be managed through NPC. Staff Recruitment In order to deliver the mandate, UNOC recognizes the need for experienced and technical staff both at management and other levels. As such recruitment has been done for some key management and technical roles and the process continues. It is hoped that this process will be completed by 2019.

UNOC hopes to continue to attract the best talent in and out of Country. Policies, Procedures and Guidelines Policies and procedures for the efficient and effective running of the entity have been put in place. The initial ones put in place are to streamline governance, accountability, risk management, joint venture participation, planning, staff management and investment. Journey to First Oil 2020 UNOC is fully behind the Governments target to have first oil by 2020 and is doing everything within its mandate and means to contribute to having this plan attained. As such, UNOC is closely working with stakeholders at all levels, across all critical areas such as Infrastructure and Logistics, Land Acquisition, Environmental and Social Impact Assessments, Water Extraction and Excess Gas Utilisation to ensure this important government target is achieved. Best of Uganda

Best of Uganda

Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) UNOC is concluding discussions with Upstream joint venture partners to back into all Joint Operation Agreements relating to the areas under development. UNOC is however attending JOA related meetings with the Joint Venture Partners as this process concludes. The Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) UNOC was part of the negotiations leading to signing of the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) between Government of Uganda and the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania. The IGA was signed in May 26th 2017 to facilitate the development of the East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline Project (EACOP). The EACOP is a 1445km buried heated pipeline that will run from Kabaale (in Hoima District, Uganda) to Tanga (in Tanzania). UNOC will be involved in the agreements to follow the IGA, including the Host Government Agreements (HGAs), Shareholders Agreement, Crude Transportation Agreements, among others in relation to transportation of Crude Oil from Hoima to Tanga. Sale of Test Crude UNOC is leading the process of identifying potential buyers of test crude oil (about 46,000 barrels) extracted from extended well testing during appraisal of the discoveries in Graben. These barrels of crude are an asset of government which has been handed over to UNOC to market and sell on behalf of Government in line with the mandate earlier cited. It is hoped that this will generate revenue for the state from this asset. Jinja Storage Terminal (JST) UNOC has been handed the Jinja Storage Terminal (JST)to ensure reliable stocking and management of petroleum products of the Government Strategic Reserves. UNOC took over the facility at the end of May 2017 and working in a joint venture with a strategic partner, worked through the month of June to put the facility to required standards and stocking started. The benefit for the Country created here is that strategic reserves are going to be maintained to help during periods of disruption and in addition UNOC will be earning revenue from commercial operations at the Facility. “Management of Jinja Strategic Reserves facility marks UNOC’s 1st step in generation of income for the company as we start to deliver on the key strategic projects and execution of UNOC mandate of protection of Government Commercial Interests in the Oil and Gas sector and commencement of value creation for our Shareholders,” the Chief Finance Officer Mr. Emmanuel Mugagga, says. OUR STRATEGY Vision ‘To be an innovative and profitable company that operates across the petroleum value chain for the benefit of all Ugandans’. Mission ‘To drive sustainable growth of the oil and gas sector through strategic partnerships and championing national participation.’ Core values Safety First. Concern for the Environment. Integrity. Continuous Improvement. Teamwork. Innovation. People Orientation.

Best of Uganda

STRATEGIC THEMES Invest in people: An empowered workforce, within UNOC and all UNOC Joint Ventures and Subsidiaries, focused on continuous improvement of themselves and the organisations. Partner strategically: Long and medium-term relationships built on synergies that deliver on projects as planned, create commercial benefits, share risks and ultimately transfer knowledge and build national capacity. Build the business: Fit for purpose systems, processes, policies and procedures resulting in operational excellence (safe, efficient, effective, compliant, self-sustaining cash flow) underpinned by international standards and best practice. AREAS OF FOCUS Upstream: Joint Operations: Manage the State participation in the Kingfisher (Hoima) and Tilenga (Buliisa) Projects. Exploration and New Ventures; Investigate and propose investment opportunities. Sale of Test Crude Oil: Lead the process of identifying potential buyers of the test crude oil.

Midstream: Refining: Manage the development of an incountry refinery through the Uganda Refinery Holding Company (URHC) on behalf of UNOC and Government of Uganda. Pipelines: Participate in the development of the East African Crude Oil Export Pipeline (EACOP) and other pipelines through the National Pipeline Company (Uganda) Limited (NPC) on behalf of UNOC and Government of Uganda. Storage: Manage Uganda’s strategic fuel reserves at Jinja Storage Terminal (JST) and the development of the Buloba Storage Terminal. Industrial Park: Manage the development of Kabaale Industrial Park which will host support infrastructure such as Petrochemical industries, Warehouses, Offices, Logistic facilities among others. How to achieve our strategy UNOC believes in Joint Ventures to reduce the country’s exposure to financial risks. “We will seek strategic partnerships for our investments across the value chain to leapfrog into a competitive position in the oil and gas industry,” says CEO Dr. Josephine Wapakabulo. UNOC – Your Partners in Uganda’s Oil and gas industry.

For more information, please contact: Legal and Corporate Affairs 4th Floor, C–Wing, Amber House, Kampala Road, P.O Box 36316 Kampala Tel: +256 414 231921 | Email: info@unoc.co.ug

Best of Uganda

« NATIONAL PARKS » 94

Best of Uganda

CHAPTER 5 Best of Uganda

Best of Uganda

UGANDA WILDLIFE AUTHORITY

Celebrating 20 years of Wildlife Conservation in Uganda 1996-2016 Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) was established in August 1996 by the Uganda Wildlife Statute, which merged the Uganda National Parks and the Game Department. It is governed by a Board of trustees appointed by the Minister for Tourism and Antiquities. UWA is responsible for 10 National Parks, 12 Wildlife reserves 5 Community Wildlife Management Areas and 13 Wildlife Sanctuaries Mission To conserve, economically develop and sustainably manage the wildlife and protected areas of Uganda in partnership with the neighbouring communities and other stakeholders for the benefit of Uganda and the global community. Vision To be a leading self-sustaining Conservation agency with healthy ecosystems that transforms Uganda into an outstanding ecotourism destination in the world. The stunning lushness of Uganda’s national parks combined with spectacular landscapes, provides the setting for some of Africa’s

most memorable visitor experiences. Mountain gorilla tracking in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers the best viewing opportunity in the world for these rare primates, and is the highlight of any trip to Uganda. Unforgettable encounters with chimpanzees during walks in the tranquil forests in and around Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Kibale National Parks are part of the reason why visitor numbers to Uganda’s protected areas are once again on the rise. Kidepo’s breathtaking scenery with huge buffalo herds and its unique, beautiful and virgin angulated hills offer a wonderful experience while the Rwenzoris with their chain canopy of striking glaciers offers a mystical challenge littered with majestic sceneries across the entire mountain spectrum.

Best of Uganda

Murchison Falls National Park The World’s Greatest Waterfall

Murchison Falls National Park lies at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley, where the sweeping Bunyoro escarpment tumbles into vast, palm-dotted savannah. First gazetted as a game reserve in 1926, it is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, hosting 76 species of mammals and 451 birds. The park is bisected by the Victoria Nile, which plunges 45m over the remnant rift valley wall, creating the dramatic Murchison Falls, the centrepiece of the park and the final event in an 80km stretch of rapids. The mighty cascade drains the last of the river’s energy, transforming it into a broad, placid stream that flows quietly across the rift valley floor into Lake Albert. At Murchison Falls, the Nile squeezes through an 8m wide gorge and plunges with a thunderous roar into the “Devil’s Cauldron”, creating a trademark rainbow. This stretch of river provides one of Uganda’s most remarkable wildlife spectacles. Regular visitors to the riverbanks include elephants, giraffes and buffaloes; while hippos, Nile crocodiles and aquatic birds are permanent residents. ACCESSIBILITY ROADS A number of routes can be used to reach the Nile at Paraa at the heart of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area. The river is crossed here using a vehicle ferry which runs at roughly hourly intervals throughout the day. SOUTHERN ENTRANCE GATES Two southerly approaches to Paraa lead out of Masindi town, which is a 4-hour drive (305km) from Kampala. Along the way to Masindi is the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to the only wild rhinos in Uganda. You can track them on foot and support this important initiative to reintroduce rhinos to protected areas. Visit www.rhinofund.org for more information. A longer but more scenic alternative runs for 135km from Masindi to the park’s Bugungu gate, The route includes a passage through Budongo Forest and a memorable descent of

Best of Uganda

the rift valley escarpment with views across Lake Albert towards the mountains of the Congo. NORTHERN ENTRANCE GATES Murchison Falls National Park can also be entered via the Chobe, Wankwar, Mubako and Tangi gates north of the Nile. These are reached from the Kampala-Pakwach Road which crosses the Nile at Karuma Falls Bridge in the northeastern corner of the park, 260km from Kampala. These gates are convenient for visitors travelling to/from Gulu town and Kidepo Valley National Park. AIR TRAVEL Pakuba Airfield, 19km from North Paraa, can be reached using chartered aircraft from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi airfield near Kampala. Other airfields in the park include: Chobe to the east, and Bugungu near Murchison Falls to the south. ACTIVITIES BIRDING Both the game drives and the launch trips offer an opportunity for one to come across distinct birdlife, including savannah forest birds, water birds and Albertine Rift endemics. The parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main birding attraction is the Shoebill, best sighted in the dry season from January-March. GAME DRIVES A game drive around the Buligi game tracks on the northern bank with a trained ranger guide is a fantastic way to see and photograph the wide range of animals in the Nile Valley. Your guide will have a good idea

where the lions are hiding, and you may even spot a leopard at dusk! HIKING AND NATURE WALKS The vast landscapes and varied scenery of Murchison Falls National Park and the surrounding Conservation Area can be explored on foot. Trails through Kaniyo Pabidi and Rabongo Forests provide sightings of many primates and birds, while around the Nile Delta, 2-4 hour guided swamp walks offer possible Shoebill sightings. LAUNCH TRIPS The launch trip upstream from Paraa presents an astonishing display of wildlife and culminates with the memorable frontal view of the Falls. Recommended for birders is a morning cruise downstream to the NileLake Albert Delta. Alternatively, a tranquil sundowner cruise offers the classic view of an equatorial sunset reflected on the river. SPORT FISHING The banks of the Nile below Murchison Falls provide exciting challenges to anglers. Living within strong currents and highly oxygenated water is the Nile perch. There is the chance to land a massive catch - the record is 108kg! CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS Energetic dancers from Mubako perform around lodge campfires, making for a magical African experience at dusk. Boomu Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Group offers accommodation, a craft shop and village tours, revealing the realities of life in this rural community.

Best of Uganda

100

Best of Uganda

Mt. Elgon National Park

The World Largest Mountain Caldera Mount Elgon at 4000km2 has the largest volcanic base in the world and is a massive solitary volcanic mountain on the border of eastern Uganda and western Kenya. Its vast form, 80km in diameter, rises 3000m above the surrounding plains. Its mountainous regional landscape and cool heights offer respite for humans from the hot plains below and its higher altitudes provide refuge for flora and fauna. The park is home to over 300 species of birds, including the endangered Lammergeyer. Small antelopes, forest monkeys, elephants and buffalos also live on the mountainside. The higher slopes are protected by national parks in Uganda and Kenya, creating an extensive trans-boundary conservation area which has been declared a UNESCO Man & Biosphere Reserve. ACCESSIBILITY ROADS Mount Elgon National Park lies 235km east of Kampala. A tarmac road runs through Jinja to Mbale town at the western base of Mount Elgon, before climbing to Kapchorwa on the mountain’s north-western flank. Dirt roads lead off the MbaleKapchorwa road to reach the various trailheads. ACTIVITIES MOUNTAIN CLIMBING Many travellers find Mt. Elgon an exciting alternative to the more strenuous climbs in East Africa. It has many of the same attractions, with a milder climate and lower elevation, and requires no special equipment or technical experience. MOUNTAIN BIKING Mountain biking trails run from Sipi trading centre to Chema hill in Kapchorwa town. It should take 1.5 hours and provides views of various waterfalls.

BIRDING Excellent birding opportunities exist around Kapkwai Forest Exploration Centre - in particular in the secondary forest and thick shrub along the loop trail to Cheptui Falls. It supports the African Goshawk, Chubb’s Cisticola, White-chinned Prinia and African Blue Flycatcher among others. HIKING Lucky hikers in Mt Elgon will enjoy being amongst the park’s primates, birds and rare tree species. Trails lead past caves, viewpoints and waterfalls, with the option of camping overnight on the mountain slopes. NATURE WALKS Enjoy views of Sipi Falls, the Walls of Death and the African sunrise across the Karamoja plains on these peacefull walks just outside Mt Elgon National Park. ROCK CLIMBING Rock climbing takes place outside the park at Sipi. There are 14 routes requiring various levels of rock scaling techniques. The toughest is a 35m climb while the easiest is 15m. SPORT FISHING Sport fishing is done above the highest of the three waterfalls at Sipi. It provides exciting challenges to anglers who take pride in battling with the rainbow trout because of its beautiful coloration and fighting ability. CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS Find out where your coffee comes from! Grown on the mountain side of Mt Elgon is Arabica coffee also named Sipi or Bugisu by the farmers who have a reputation for producing some of the finest washed Arabica in Kenya and Uganda.

Best of Uganda

101

Kidepo Valley National Park True African Wilderness

A wilderness park; dry, hot and isolated, yet spectacular, magnificent and virgin, waiting to be discovered. Traversed by large sand rivers, the park is renowned for its distinctive composition of wild game co-existing with the dry mountain forests, open savannah and hilltops capped by rock kopjes. Enjoy the isolated wilderness dominated by the 2,750m Mount Morungole and transected by the Kidepo and great Narus rivers. Perennial rains may make Kidepo an oasis in the semi-desert, but its tract of rugged savannah is home to 77 mammal species and almost 500 birds. Game viewing is exciting all year round and so is bird watching, foot safaris and mountain climbing. And even in the dry season, it is worth the drive just to visit the seasonal Kidepo river and stroll along its 50m wide bed of white sand between banks covered with Borassus palm trees. The 1,442kmÂ˛ is located in the Karamoja region of northern Uganda and borders the Sudan in the north west and Kenya in the north east. ACCESSIBILITY ROADS There are four routes by road: The 705km journey from Kampala via Lira, Kotido, Kaabong and then to Kidepo; the 740km journey from Kampala via Mbale, Soroti, Moroto, Kotido, Kaabong and then Kidepo; the 780km journey from Kampala via Mbale, Soroti, Matany, Kotido, Kaabong and on to Kidepo; and the 571km journey from Kampala through Gulu, Kitgum and to Kidepo. Driving through the wilderness is an exciting experience as one gets the chance of better scenery. One will need a good 4X4 vehicle especially during the rainy season. AIR TRAVEL Chartered aircrafts to Kidepo may be arranged from Kajjansi, or from Entebbe International Airport to Lomej airstrip near the park headquarters. Flights take two hours. Civil Aviation Authority plans to make Lomej airstrip, to the east of Apoka tourism centre, an international airport to enable visitors to fly in direct to Kidepo from abroad. ACTIVITIES GAME DRIVES/VIEWING Game drives can be done along Narus valley as the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wildlife congregates here much of the year. This area has adequate track circuits enabling visitors to view the animals at a close range. The Katurum kopje provides superb views north across the valley towards Morungole mountain range. NATURE WALKS Nature walks can be done around Apoka camp at any time of the day and visitors will be able to view different species of animals like elephants, Bulbul, Zebras and Reedbucks. At the eastern Kakine circuit, visitors can see wildlife at a close range of up to 50-70 metres. Nature walks can also be done along Rionomoe trail and around this hill where one can view the lower side of the Narus valley.

102

Best of Uganda

COMMUNITY WALKS Community walks are one of the ways you can get to know more about the Karamajong lifestyle, cultures, dressing style, dancing and the tools used. The Karamajong are traditionally cattle raiders and hunters. However, through community conservation education, their lifestyle is gradually changing and most of them now know the value of conservation of the park.

MOUNTAIN HIKING The Morungole ranges rise from the plains a few kilometres north of Apoka. A trip to Kidepo valley is needed to get a good view of Morungole mountain, the highest peak in Kidepo. Even at 2,749m, this peak is not easily seen from most vantage points in the Narus valley. This can be explored on foot with a ranger guide escort. SAND ALONG RIVER KIDEPO Kidepo River is an intermittent sand river found in the northern part of the park. It stands out because it is

lined by Borassus palms, making it look like an oasis in the Sahara. The sand bed experience on river Kidepo can be very fascinating especially during the dry season. Many bird species can be found around this area and one can enjoy the wilderness experience while listening to the different bird calls. BIRD WATCHING This activity can be done either in the morning or afternoon and the park has got a variety of birds. The experienced guides will show you around.

Best of Uganda

103

Kibale National Park

The Primate Capital of The World Kibale National Park is the most magnificent of Uganda’s tropical rain forests and one of the most rewarding areas to explore. Established at the end of the 18th Century, Kibale boasts of 13 species of primates including the localized Red Colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys and the endemic Uganda Mangabay. Kibale’s major attraction is the chimpanzees - the delightful apes, most closest to humans than to any other living creature. These can be seen swinging in tree branches as one treks through the forest trails. While you enjoy your tour in this sunny side of nature, you have a life opportunity to sight over 300 bird species. The 180km long migration corridor for wildlife also habits mammals like the elusive forest elephants, buffalos, giant forest hogs and half a dozen antelope species; thereby making it one of the most stunning parks in Uganda. Situated ideally in the heart of the Tooro Kingdom in western Uganda, near Fort Portal, the park lies close to the tranquil Ndali-Kasenda crater area and is within a half days’ drive of Queen Elizabeth, Rwenzori Mountains and Semiliki National Parks. The park became a government Forest Reserve in the early 1940s. ACCESSIBILITY ROADS The 795 sq km park can be accessed from Uganda’s capital, Kampala, along a newly surfaced road via Kasese (near Queen Elizabeth National Park). The park can also be reached from Kampala via Mubende and Fort Portal or through Mbarara and Kamwenge. There is daily public transport between Kampala and Fort portal by bus. AIR TRAVEL Kibale National Park has access to two Airstrips; Nyakisharara Airstrip in Mbarara (about 98km through Kamwenge from Kanyanchu) and Kasese air strip, 75km from Fort Portal town. It can also be reached from the airstrip in Tooro/Semliki Wildlife Reserve, only 86 km from Kanyanchu. ACTIVITIES CHIMPANZEE HABITUATION EXPERIENCE The Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX) allows you to accompany Kibale’s researchers and habituators as they follow chimpanzees during their daily activities, thereby getting them used to human presence without altering their natural behaviour. This is all day and early visitors may be able to see the spectacular scene of chimps de-nesting, feeding, copulating, hunting, breast

104

Best of Uganda

nursing, resting, patrolling and displaying until they build new nests and retire for the night around 7.00 pm. (Note: Advance booking is essential) PRIMATE WALK (CHIMPANZEE TRACKING) You can also experience and participate in the chimpanzee tracking walks which start from the Kanyanchu Visitor Centre at 08:00am and 02:00pm and lasts 2-3 hours. Park guides are readily available to take tourists through this ritual. This walk is for six persons per group and advance booking is essential. DAY HIKES/NATURE WALKS This is an exploration of the park’s diverse habitats providing very close contact with nature. The walks begin at 08:00am, 10:00am and 2.00pm from Kanyanchu Tourist Centre and take about 2 - 3 hours. Remind your guide to show you the naked Adam and Eve tree, one of Kibale’s unique wonders. BIRD WATCHING & NIGHT NATURE WALK Kibale National Park boasts 372 bird species of which 60% are recorded Uganda’s Forest Birds. Bird watchers can spot various species of these birds as they enjoy the various activities in the park. Also there is a night nature walk which allows visitors to track the unique species of birds, animals and insects such as Bat, Owl, Pottos, Bush Babies, Civets, Genet cats and Eastern Needle Nailed; that are most active at night. CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES Only children above 12 years are allowed to go into the forest to view the chimps. Kibale has a variety of activities for children under 12 years including educational forest walks of 1-2 hours followed by creative activities like pond dipping, cyanotype photography and batik-making. Through these educational forest walks, the children can learn about the ecosystem and its inhabitants. Parents can enjoy their forest walk with the knowledge that their children are occupied in worthwhile activity with trained ranger guides. CULTURAL HERITAGE AND NATURE TRAIL Follow a 2-6 day cultural heritage and nature trail through the tropical forest and meet local people and gain insights into their cultures. The full walk can start or end at either Kanyanchu or Sebitoli. Explore the forest during the day, end for a rest at the community-run campsites near the villages of Kinoni, Nyaibanda and Nyakalongo. Porters can be hired to carry equipment. The walk is most exciting in groups of up to 6 people. (Note: Pre-booking is essential).

Best of Uganda

105

Queen Elizabeth National Park A medley of Wonders

Queen Elizabeth National Park is understandably Uganda’s most popular tourist destination. The park’s diverse ecosystems, which include sprawling savannah, shady, humid forests, sparkling lakes and fertile wetlands, make it the ideal habitat for classic big game, ten primate species including chimpanzees and over 600 species of birds. Set against the backdrop of the jagged Rwenzori Mountains, the park’s magnificent vistas include dozens of enormous craters carved dramatically into rolling green hills, panoramic views of the Kazinga Channel with its banks lined with hippos, buffalos and elephants, and the endless Ishasha plains, whose fig trees hide lions ready to pounce on herds of unsuspecting Uganda kob. As well as its outstanding wildlife attractions, Queen Elizabeth National Park has a fascinating cultural history. There are many opportunities for visitors to meet the local communities and enjoy storytelling, dance, music and more. The park was founded in 1952 as Kazinga National Park, and renamed two years later to commemorate a visit by Queen Elizabeth II. ACCESSIBILITY ROADS Queen Elizabeth National Park can be accessed most easily from Kampala. The tarmac road from Kampala via Mbarara town and Bushenyi leads to the centre of the park, passing just 22km from Mweya Peninsula, the main tourism hub. Approaching the park from the south via Mbarara covers a distance of 420km while the north through Fort Portal covers a total of 410km. En-route to the park, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy short detours to Lake Mburo National Park, Rwenzori

106

Best of Uganda

Mountains and Kibale National Park, renowned for its chimpanzee tracking. The park can also be accessed from the south from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. AIR TRAVEL Charter flights can be arranged to existing airstrips of Kasese, Mweya and Ishasha. ACTIVITIES BIRDING Classified as an Important Birding Area (IBA) by Birding International, Queen’s great variety of habitats mean it is home to over 600 species. This is the greatest of any East African national park, and a phenomenal number for such a small area. The park’s confluence of savannah and forest, linking to the expansive forests of the DR Congo allow visitors to spot East as well as Central African species. CAVE Tucked beneath the shady canopy of the Maramagambo Forest is the “Bat Cave”. The cave has a viewing room from which visitors can observe the resident bats and pythons. CHIMP TRACKING The Kyambura Gorge experience is more than discovering chimpanzees in their natural environment: it teaches visitors about the ecosystems of Kyambura Gorge’s atmospheric “underground” rainforest, including vegetation types; bird identification and behavior; and chimp and monkey ecology. GAME DRIVES For a classic African safari experience, the tracks through Kasenyi, the North Kazinga Plains and the Ishasha Sector offer virtually guaranteed buffalo, antelope and elephant sightings, along with

warthogs and baboons. Taking an experienced guide in the early morning or at dusk is the most successful way to track down a pride of lions, and maybe even the odd leopard. HIKING/NATURE WALKS Nature treks are one of the more active ways to explore the landscapes and wildlife of Queen Elizabeth. Locations include the shady Maramagambo forest; Mweya Peninsula with its scenic views; and Ishasha River, where you may spot a variety of forest and savannah species as well as have a unique opportunity to get extremely close to hippos - on foot! LAUNCH TRIP The Kazinga Channel is an oasis for many of the fascinating species that inhabit the park, and taking a boat tour along it gives visitors the chance to cruise just metres from hundreds of enormous hippos and buffalos while elephants linger on the shoreline. CULTURAL HERITAGE AND NATURE TRAIL See the energetic dances of the Kikorongo Equator Cultural Performers; workers harvesting salt on Katwe Salt Lake; a traditional Banyaraguru hut; or an agricultural village - all guided by those who know them best - local community members. WILDLIFE RESEARCH TOUR For visitors who yearn to get up close to wild African fauna, a research trip is a rewarding adventure. This new and unique experience allows visitors to actively participate in monitoring some of the exotic birds and mammals that fill the park, using locator devices and learn habituation calls, as well as monitoring weather, surroundings and behavior. Best of Uganda

107

Rwenzori Mountains National Park The Mystical Challenge

As early as 150 AD, Alexandrine photographer, Ptolemy wrote of a snow capped mountain range deep in the heart of Africa, which he claimed was the source of the world’s longest river, The Nile. He called it “Mountains of the Moon.” Indeed, over the centuries, mountaineers who later explored Ptolemy’s mountains found the high Rwenzori glaciers and snow peaks whose melt waters certainly represent the highest springs of the Nile. The alpine highland of glaciers, snowfields, hot springs and blue cirque lakes make Rwenzori one of Africa’s most beautiful mountain parks. Reaching an elevation of 5,109m, Rwenzori is Africa’s tallest mountain range exceeded in altitude by Mt Kilimajaro and Mt Kenya, carrying Africa’s third, fourth and fifth highest peaks that are visible for miles around. Some of its peaks incomparable, beautiful and mist-shrouded carry permanent snow and glaciers, while the lower slopes are covered with dense forest.

The Mountain’s slopes above 1,600m are the preserve of hikers who rate the Rwenzoris to be the most challenging of all African mountains. A variety of large mammals inhabit the lower slopes but the Rwenzori are notable more for their majestic scenery and varied vegetation. Its five distinct vegetation zones of montane forest, bamboo forest, tree heath-bog, Hagenia-Rapanea scrub and afro-alpine moorland provide a unique backdrop to one of the most magnificent national parks in the world. Several endangered species and very unusual cloud forest flora like giant heathers, groundsels and lobelias, characterise the ranges as ‘Africa’s botanic big game’. In 1991, Rwenzori Mountains were gazetted as a National Park and it is both a World Heritage and RAMSAR site. ACCESSIBILITY ROAD The park is located near Kasese, western Uganda, bordering Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the West. The Nyakalengija trailhead, which is 22km off the Kasese-Fort Portal road and 25km north of Kasese town, can be reached from Kampala via Fort Portal road (375km) or via Mbarara and Queen Elizabeth National park (450km). AIR TRAVEL Transport can also be arranged on chartered flights from Kampala at either Kajjansi or Entebbe International Airport. ATTRACTIONS Mountain climbing is the most attractive activity on the legendary “Mountains of the moon” that lie between altitudes 0˚ 06’ South and 0˚ 46’ North and longitudes 29˚ 47’ West and 30˚ 11’ East. The diverse heavily snow-capped peaks are one of the few pristine and spectacular landscapes of the world. Although a variety of large mammals inhabit the lower slopes, the Rwenzoris are notable more for their majestic scenery and varied vegetation. The ranges are scenic with a pristine and spectacular landscape that comprises of waterfalls, hot springs, blue cirque lakes, snow clad peaks and stratified vegetation which is an attraction not only for visitors, but also creates potential for research as well as resources for the nearby communities.

108

Best of Uganda

The park is also home to 18 species of mammals, 217 species of birds, 9 species of reptiles and 6 species of amphibians. Elephants, buffalos, giant forest hogs, bush bucks, chimpanzees and leopards are present but rarely seen. However primates such as the black and white colobus and the blue monkey may be seen. In the Rwenzoris are also some unique and rare animal species like the three horned chameleon, the Rwenzori colobus, Rwenzori Turaco and the Rwenzori double collared sunbird. The park is also a cultural heritage for the neighbouring communities. Eighteen sacred sites have been identified, mapped and protected as worship areas. ACTIVITIES Aesthetic values of the Rwenzoris can be put into three categories of trekking, nature walks and peak climbing: TREKKING This is done along two routes; a 7-day trekking of the central tourism circuit, and a 5-day trek along Kilembe route to the southern part of the park. Shorter hikes can be arranged. NATURE WALKS There are trees in the park which allow visitors up close interaction with nature. PEAK CLIMBING The six-day loop trail is a tough but rewarding hike taking in all vegetation zones and the glacier peaks. There are ascents to major peaks within the Rwenzori ranges along both routes. These include ascents to Margherita (5,109m) on Mountain Stanley, Vittorio Emmanuelle (4,889m) on Mountain Speke and Edward (4,842m) on Mountain Baker. These hikes offer commanding and panoramic views of other peaks within the ranges. However, high peaks should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers. Best of Uganda

109

Semuliki National Park The True Birders’ Haven

Semuliki National Park sprawls across the floor of the Semliki Valley on the remote, western side of the Rwenzori. The park is dominated by the easternmost extension of the great Ituri Forest of the Congo Basin. This is one of “Africa’s” most ancient and bio-diverse forests; one of the few to survive the last ice age, 12-18,000 years ago. The Semliki Valley contains numerous features associated with central rather than eastern Africa. Thatched huts are shaded by West African oil palms; the Semliki River (which forms the international boundary) is a miniature version of the Congo River, the forest is home to numerous Central African wildlife species, and the local population includes a Batwa pygmy community that originated from the Ituri. As a result, this park provides a taste of Central Africa without having to leave Uganda. While Semuliki’s species have been accumulating for over 25,000 years, the park contains evidence of even older processes. Hot springs bubble up from the depths to demonstrate the powerful subterranean forces that have been shaping the rift valley during the last 14 million years. Semuliki Forest Reserve was created in 1932 and upgraded to national park status in 1993. Enjoy views of Sipi Falls, the Walls of Death and the African sunrise across the Karamoja plains on these peacefull walks just outside Mt Elgon National Park. ROCK CLIMBING Rock climbing takes place outside the park at Sipi. There are 14 routes requiring various levels of rock scaling techniques. The toughest is a 35m climb while the easiest is 15m. SPORT FISHING Sport fishing is done above the highest of the three waterfalls at Sipi. It provides exciting challenges to anglers who take pride in battling with the rainbow trout because of its beautiful coloration and fighting ability. CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS Find out where your coffee comes from! Grown on the mountain side of Mt Elgon is Arabica coffee also named Sipi or Bugisu by the farmers who have a reputation for producing some of the finest washed Arabica in Kenya and Uganda. ACCESSIBILITY ROADS There are two major roads from Kampala to Fort Portal, 4WD vehicles are recommended for both: • Kampala-Fort Portal via Mubende is about 180km, or a 4-5 hour drive, making it the shortest route. • Kampala-Fort Portal via Masaka, Mbarara and Kasese is longer at 465km (7-8 hrs). This route offers the chance to stop along the way at Lake Mburo National Park, Kyambura Wildlife Reserve, Rwenzori Mountains National Park or Queen Elizabeth National Park.

110

Best of Uganda

Semuliki National Park’s Sempaya Gate is 59km from Fort Portal. The park headquarters at Ntandi is 6km further along the road. Historically, the journey was a slow and bumpy 2-3 hour drive on a narrow road that winds over the northern Rwenzori. The route is currently being widened and surfaced to make the journey shorter and more comfortable. ACTIVITIES BIRDING Birders who make it to Semuliki will be rewarded with some of Africa’s best forest birding. Sempaya and Ntandi provide excellent viewing of the birds including the White-crested Hornbill, Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill, Piping Hornbill, Yellow-throated Nicator, Great blue and Ross’s Turacos. The shoebill stork is regularly seen at close quarters on Lake Albert and forest walks are good for tracking water birds.

GAME DRIVES Three tracks cross the savannah grassland of Toro Semliki Wildlife Reserve. Smaller forest and larger savannah elephants are regularly seen, along with buffalo, waterbuck, crocodile, warthog and Uganda kob. With luck, you may even see pygmy hippopotami, leopards and elusive bushbabies. HIKING AND NATURE WALKS The 13km KirumiaTrail runs through the heart of the forest to the Semuliki River. This 8-hour round trip starts at 8am and is perfect for birders. HOT SPRINGS The hour-long trail to the outer, “male” spring leads through a patch of forest where red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys and black-and-white colobus monkeys are common. A tree house en route provides an aerial view. A 30-minute hike through palm forest from the main road leads to the inner, “female” spring, dominated by a boiling geyser. Eggs and matooke (green plantain) can be cooked in these boiling waters and enjoyed by hungry hikers! CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS AND TRAILS The Batwa’s hunter-gatherer lifestyle means they have always been dependent on Semuliki forest for food, shelter, medicine and tools, though this is beginning to change as a result of interaction with other local communities. Best of Uganda

111

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park The Ultimate Gorilla Experience

At 331Km2 it is home to half of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mountain gorillas, whose encounter and consequent eye contact is the most exciting and poignant wildlife encounter in the whole of Africa. With mist covered hillsides, this impenetrable forest is the oldest and most biologically diverse rainforest, with over 400 species of plants. It lies on the edge of the rift valley in southwestern Uganda, and protects at least 120 species of mammals, 346 species of birds, 202 species of butterflies, 163 species of trees, 100 species of ferns, 27 species of frogs, chameleons, geckos, among many endangered species. It is a UNESCO designated World Heritage site popular for mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, the two great African apes listed as endangered animals in the IUCN Red Data Book.

112

Best of Uganda

ACTIVITIES GORILLA TRACKING Tracking is a captivation and unforgettable experience which more than repays the effort needed to reach Bwindi and to trek through the forest. Gorilla tracking can be challenging and one needs to be reasonably fit before undertaking to venture into the activity. Registration and briefing at Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga visitor receptions commences at 07:30am with general briefings conducted at 08:00am. Gorilla tracking starts at 8:30am and can last from a few hours to a whole day depending on where the gorillas were left the previous day.

Bwindi National Park has gorilla tracking as the major tourist attraction with four gorilla tracking trailheads. Also, nine groups of mountain gorilla families have been habituated and only eight tourists booked per group per day. Forest trails in the park lead to various attractions including rivers, waterfalls, swamps and high level of wildlife concentration. Birding is another attraction that provides great opportunities to see various Albertine rift endemics such as the short-tailed warbler. A 6-hour bamboo trail leads to Rwamunyonyi peak, at 2607m, is the highest peak and notable spot for birding. While a 3-hour descent to Mubwindi swamp could lead a visitor to endemic and localised African green broadbill. Other rewarding activities are mountain biking and nature walks to waterfalls and parts of the forest. A short drive north to Buhoma, which sits on the Congo border, offers wonderful hikes along the hill crests and rivers to discover waterfalls, glorious views and the traditional lifestyle and folklore of the Kigezi people. ACCESSIBILITY ROADS The National Park is located in south–western Uganda about 530km from Kampala, the capital city. The park can be reached by road from several directions that include:

OTHER ACTIVITIES AROUND THE PARK Though gorilla tracking is the main attraction, a range of other walks provide more relaxed opportunities to spot birds and monkeys while exploring one of Uganda’s loveliest rainforests. Mountain biking is also a good activity around Bwindi, this is usually done through a well maintained trail 13km trail of Ivi River from the park office. The following walks can be arranged to depart in the morning at 9:00am and in the afternoon at 2:15pm: • Munyanga River Trail in the valley below Buhoma (park office) provides an ideal short walk to view birds and primates along the forest edge. • Waterfall Trail leads through one of Uganda’s most pristine tracts of rainforest, passing beneath tree ferns, epiphytic ferns and orchids to visit three sparkling waterfalls. • Rushura Hill Trail provides expansive views across the plains of the western rift valley to the west and (on clear days) Lake Edward and the Rwenzori Mountains to the north. • Muzabajiro Loop Trail climbs to the summit of Rukubira Hill for breathtaking views of Bwindi forest, the western Rift Valley and the Virunga volcanoes. • River Ivi Trail follows an old road through beautiful forest emerging near Nkuringo on the southern edge of the forest. It is highly recommended for bird watchers.

Through Queen Elizabeth National Park (Mweya)-Kihihi-Buhoma. This route passes through Queen Elizabeth National Park’s southerly Ishasha section, providing a chance for the tourists to stopover and search for the famous tree-climbing lions. BINP is 160km from Mweya and 64km from Ishasha. You can also access the park through: • Kampala-Kabale-Kanungu-Buhoma (5-6 hours journey); • Kampala-Ntungamo-Rukungiri-Kihihi-Buhoma (5 hours journey; • Kabale-Ruhija-Buhoma. (5-6 hours journey); • Kampala-Kabale-Nkuringo (6-7 hours journey). AIR TRAVEL Travellers can fly from Entebbe Airport or Kampala (Kajjansi airfield) to the modern tarmac airstrip at Kisoro town. Visitors to Buhoma can also charter planes to Kayonza (near Butogota) or Savannah (Kihihi) airstrips.

Best of Uganda

113

traditional healing practices for local people covers the north slopes of the three northern Virunga volcanoes - Muhavura, Gahinga and Sabinyo. The park derives its name from “Gahinga” a Kinyarwanda word for a pile of volcanic lava stone heaps around which cultivation is carried out. On the other hand, Muhavura means guide and Sabinyo means the Old man’s teeth. It is bordered to the south by Rwanda and to the west by DR Congo. While Sabinyo is deeply eroded with jagged crown and deep gorges and ravines, Gahinga has a swamp filled-crater about 180m wide and Muhavura has a small crater lake about 36m wide at its summit. While at the top of the Sabinyo, you get to set foot in all three countries of Uganda, DRC and Rwanda at the same time. Its view of the volcanoes and gorges with the cool breeze of freshness is unrivaled. On some of the steep mountain slopes are caves formed by lava tubes, one of them being the famous Garama cave located near Ntebeko, the park headquarters.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Where Gold meets Silver

Mgahinga is part of a larger ecosystem, the Virunga Conservation Area (434km2) which includes two adjacent parks in Rwanda and

Congo. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park sits high in the clouds, at an altitude of between 2,227m and 4,127m. It was formed to protect the rare mountain gorillas that inhabit its dense forests, and it is also an important habitat for the endangered golden monkey. Its most striking features are its three conical, extinct volcanoes, part of the spectacular Virunga range that lies along the border region of Uganda, Congo and Rwanda. Mgahinga forms part of the much larger Virunga Conservation Area which includes adjacent parks in these countries. The park offers a soothing aura of majesty with cool temperatures owing to the mountainous nature of the park. Its home to part of the 300 gorillas located in the Virunga massif. It is indeed where gold meets silver where gorillas are housed with the same habitat of the golden monkeys. The cultural heritage featuring folklore and

ACCESSIBILITY ROADS Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is 510km from Kampala; the most commonly used route passes through Kabale and Kisoro. The 434km journey from Kampala to Kabale can be completed in 8 hours on good tarmac. It is then a further 76km to Kisoro town on a mountainous tarmac road with steep ascents and descents. An attractive, alternative route leaves the main road at Kabale and follows the shoreline of the superbly scenic Lake Bunyonyi to rejoin the Kabale-Kisoro main road at its halfway point at Muko. Ntebeko, the main entrance to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is 14km from Kisoro at the end of a dirt road with some steep and rocky sections. AIR TRAVEL Mgahinga can also be reached by air using the daily flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kisoro airfield. ACTIVITIES BIRDING The best birding in Mgahinga also takes in some of the most beautiful scenery in the gorge between Mts Gahinga and Sabinyo, through the bamboo forest, and in the montane forest, where the beautiful Rwenzori Turaco may be observed. CULTURAL ENCOUNTER For generations, Mgahinga’s dense forests were home to the indigenous Batwa-hunter-gatherers and fierce warriors who depended on the forest for shelter, food and medicine. Now they lead visitors through the forests and introduce them to their old home and the techniques they used to survive in it. GORILLA TRACKING The guide leads you through the gorillas’ world, surrounded by wild forest and impressive birdlife, explaining the gorillas’ behavior along the way. Tracking excursions leave from Ntebeko Entrance Gate at 8am daily and last between two and four hours.

114

Best of Uganda

HIKING AND NATURE WALKS Hiking around the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes gives visitors the chance to spot forest birds, the Rugezi Swamp, wild vegetation, bamboo forests and glorious views of the surrounding lakes and agricultural villages. MOUNTAIN/VOLCANO CLIMBING All three volcanoes in this park can be summited, taking a full day each. Views from the peaks are well worth the effort-taking in Rwanda, DR Congo, the Virungas, the Rwenzoris, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Lake Edward.

Best of Uganda

115

Lake Mburo National Park Whispers of The Wild

In the middle of an extensive rich acacia woodland lies one of Uganda’s most spectacular and breathtaking game parks; Lake Mburo National Park. Lake Mburo is a gem of a park, conveniently located close to the western highway that connects Kampala to the parks of western Uganda. It is a very special place with a medley of habitats ranging from dry hillsides, rocky outcrops, bushy thickets, open and wooded savannahs to forest, lakes and swamps. Its sculptured landscape, rolling hills and idyllic lake shores, forest galleries, seasonal and permanent swamps and grassy valleys all support a wealth of wildlife in a tropical setting. The park is remarkably different from other parks. It’s the best park to view the gigantic eland, impala, zebras and acacia associated birds. Common mammal species include Warthogs, Buffalos, Oribi, Defassa, Water bucks, Reed bucks and the Eland antelopes. Leopards and Hyenas are also present and Lions have also returned to the park after years of poaching and near extinction. The

116

Best of Uganda

five lakes within the park attract hippos and crocodiles while fringing swamps hide secretive papyrus specialists such as the sitatunga antelope and red, black and yellow papyrus gonalek. The park also has an impressive bird list with 332 species recorded including Shoebill, Papyrus, Yellow warbler, African fin foot, Saddle billed stork, Brown chested wattled plover, Carrutter’s cisticola, Tabora cisticola, Great snipe, Abyssinian ground horn bill and white winged warbler. Acacia woodland bird species are especially well represented. Though just 371sq km in size, Lake Mburo has a varied landscape full of interest and colour. The park is refreshing and full of life given its strategic location near the KampalaMbarara highway. ACCESSIBILITY Lake Mburo National Park lies between the towns of Masaka and Mbarara in western Uganda. It’s 228kms from Kampala and is about 4hrs drive. There are two gateways to the park from Mbarara road. Approaching from Kampala then turning to Nshara gate is 13kms past

Lyantonde. The junction for Sanga gate is at Sanga trading centre, 27kms past Lyantonde. ACTIVITIES Several activities can be conducted while in Lake Mburo National Park, like, nature walks and game drives. Nature walk is conducted on foot with the help of an armed guide who explains to the visitors about the various flora and fauna. Game driving is done while in the visitors own vehicle. The boat is another interesting activity in Lake Mburo, as a visitor gets a chance to see a variety of wildlife .e.g. crocodiles, hippos and birds like African fish eagle, African finfoot, cormorants, kingfishers, herons etc. Horse riding is conducted by Mihingo lodge inside the park while quad bikes riding is conducted by African All Terrain Vehicles (ATV Safaris). It gives a spectacular view of the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s terrain and wildlife. Visitors can ride closer without the animals getting scared. ATTRACTIONS RWONYO REST CAMP Rwonyo is the centre of tourism activities in the park. The rest camp is the starting point for nature walks and game drives. LAKE MBURO The eastern shores of Lake Mburo can be explored by boat, departing from a Jetty at the Lakeside campsite near Rwonyo. Watch out for crocodiles and hippopotamus during the twohour voyage. You can also sight a variety of birds including Pelicans, Heron, the Cormorant, Fish Eagle and perhaps the rare Fin foot and Shoe bill storks. Fishermen with their own equipment may fish in the Lake from the campsite by arrangement.

SALT LICKS Guided walks explore the park around Rwonyo, culminating in a visit to a natural salt lick frequented by the wildlife. Viewing is facilitated by a timber observation platform. GAME TRACKS The eastern hinterland of Lake Mburo is served by a network of game tracks along which a variety of savannah animals and birds can be sighted. Impalas are the most commonly seen along the Impala track while Zebras frequent the grassy valley floors traversed by the Zebra track. This connects to the Ruroko track which passes rock kopjes, home to the elusive Klip Springer. In the south of the park, the lakeside track passes through dense woodland that is home to bushbuck and bush duiker, to Kigarama hill which provides a panoramic view of Lake Mburo. This lake and seven more can also be seen from the Kazuma lookout, close to Kazuma track. RUBANGA FOREST Though small, this tract of forest on the western side of Lake Mburo provides a taste of the tropical high forest with closed canopy and is home to a variety of forest bird species. Rubanga can be explored with a ranger guide. CONSERVATION EDUCATION CENTRE The park has a Conservation Education Centre, 1km west of Sanga gate. This provides accommodation and an education hall for school groups, visitors, seminars and workshops.

Uganda Wildlife Authority, 7 Kira Road Kamwokya. P.O.Box, Kampala Uganda Tel: +256 414 355 000 | Fax: +256 414 546 291 | Email: info@ugandawildlife.org facebook,.com/ugandawildlifeauthority | twitter.com/ugandawildlife www.ugandawildlife.org

Best of Uganda

117

« TRAVEL, TOURS & AVIATION » 118

Best of Uganda

CHAPTER 6 Best of Uganda

119

UGANDA TOURISM BOARD Stephen Asiimwe, Chief Executive Officer

It is with great pleasure that as the CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board I present to you the inaugural edition of ‘Best of Uganda’. Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa a land of great diversity, beauty and opportunity. Uganda is a country on the move. A growing economy, a young and educated population, a land of great cultural diversity and yet all united in the fact that they are a warm, welcoming and accommodative people. Little wonder, the country has been voted “The best place to raise a family” and also won the accolade for “The most welcoming country” in 2017 for both security and attitude to guests. When Britain’s world war hero, Sir Winston Churchill visited Uganda in 1907, he was amazed by what he saw and named Uganda the Pearl of Africa. This he aptly put in his book published in 1908, My African Journey; “The kingdom of Uganda is a fairy-tale. You climb up… and at the end there is a wonderful new world. The scenery is different, the vegetation is different, the climate is different, and, most of all, the people are different from anywhere else seen in Africa…” That situation 108 years later has not changed. The country located in the heart of Africa, is still rich in wildlife, nature, culture, heritage and history. Its biological and cultural diversity is unmatched for a country the size of Great Britain, Laos, Ghana or the American state of Oregon. Thanks to conservation efforts of the Government, Uganda is home to the world’s largest population of gorillas and primates; as well as a range of other wildlife including the Big Five, reptiles and over 50% of Africa’s bird and butterfly species. Almost 40% of its land mass is covered by water, rivers and wetlands. Uganda is also home to the source of the River Nile, the world’s longest river, and the snowcapped Mt. Rwenzori, the highest mountain range in Africa. With an average temperature of 27 degrees Celsius (80 Fahrenheit), the country offers exuberant weather for any traveler; all year round. This, coupled with the growing and expanding economy, makes Uganda one of the top 10 countries in Africa for Tourism and Investment. Whether you have been to Uganda or not, I believe this inaugural issue of ‘Best of Uganda’ will certainly unveil the opportunities and beauty of the Pearl of Africa.

120

Best of Uganda

121

TOP 10 TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN UGANDA Uganda is a wonderful new world. Home to a plethora of sites of natural, historical and geographical interest, Uganda is one of Africa’s mustsee locations. Uganda’s welcoming people and stunning natural heritage have charmed people from all over the world for centuries.

It was Winston Churchill who immortalized Uganda as the ‘Pearl of Africa’. When he travelled to Africa in 1907, then a young Member of Parliament in the UK, Uganda was a paradise that left a permanent mark on him: “The kingdom of Uganda is a fairy tale”, he wrote in his 1908 book, My African Journey. “You climb up… and at the end there is a wonderful, new world. The scenery is different, the vegetation is different, the climate is different, and, most of all, the people are different from anything elsewhere to be seen in the whole range of Africa. For magnificence, for variety of form and color, for profusion of brilliant life… Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa.”

1. Mountain Gorilla Tracking in the Highlands:

One of Uganda’s major natural attractions and one of its biggest drawcards for visitors is the incredible sighting of mountain gorillas in the wild. These gorillas are only found in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorillas National Parks. Of the less than 900 mountain gorillas existing in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo, over 50% of these call Uganda home. In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, 10 habituated (used to human contact) groups are visited every day for only one hour per group. The majestic apes in these areas live in groups of around 10 individuals which are each led by the most powerful silverback, with the rest comprising females and younger males. The silverback makes important decisions for the group and protects them from intruders.

122

Best of Uganda

2. National Park Safaris: Uganda has over 10 national parks and

reserves that between them feature all of the big five - lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo. Uniquely, Uganda can also add two rare large animals to its list - the gentle mountain gorillas of Bwindi and Mgahinga; and the chimpanzees found around the country. Each of the parks and national reserves are unique and differ from one another in habitat and species. Bwindi, a world heritage site, is mountainous and cold. This greatly differs from the wild Kidepo Valley National Park in the north east. Kidepo Valley National Park was voted the third best national park in Africa by CNN in 2013. Kidepo is so unspoilt that going on safari there is like a solitary drive into the wilderness. The Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks are all held in particularly high regard on the global travel agenda. The parks offer remarkable views and activities to add to your itinerary while on safari. From boat cruises, tracking gorillas, sport fishing in the mighty Nile; to balloon safaris, birding and rhino tracking â&#x20AC;&#x201C; you can have it all in this Pearl of Africa. Uganda is the ultimate safari destination without the crowds.

Best of Uganda

123

3. Hiking the Rwenzori Mountains: Hiking

up these mystic Mountains of the Moon (as the ancient Greeks called them), is a unique and worthwhile experience. As Africa’s highest mountain range straddling the equator, Rwenzori offers beautiful glaciers and a medley of over nine lakes. The variety of fauna and flora is quite vast as one ascends through the different vegetation from savannah, to tropical, through to montane forest. The Rwenzori Mountains are a world heritage site and offer one of the most beautiful mountain hikes in the world.

4. White Sand Beaches of Ssese: This is probably one of Uganda’s greatest secrets and

a surprise to many travellers. The white sands, the uncrowded beaches and the tranquillity create a perfect never-ending honeymoon experience. Ssese Islands are located in Uganda’s portion of Lake Victoria, the world’s second largest fresh water lake. Ssese is approximately 60 kilometres (37 miles) over the water, southwest of Entebbe. The islands’ main attractions are the beaches, beautiful scenery, great nature walks, sport fishing and of course the gorgeous sunsets.

124

Best of Uganda

5. Wild white waters and the source of the Nile: Jinja is East Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s adventure capital and is

the source of the White Nile and home to some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best and wildest white-water rafting. The Nile boasts rapids ranging from class 1 to 6, making rafting an ideal activity for all levels first-time rafters, families, and extreme adrenaline junkies. The area attracts outdoor tourists, as well as those looking for a thrill and involvement in all activities while having fun. Here you can get your taste of kayaking, white-water rafting, quad biking, mountain biking and horseback riding all in a town with a gorgeous natural setting and some pre-independence architecture. Once in Jinja, you will discover that Uganda is truly both the Pearl of Africa and the place for adventure.

Best of Uganda

125

6. Kampala City: This is the capital city of the Pearl of Africa. The first sight one gets of Uganda, it is a city that never sleeps as it is dynamic and invigorating. This city is filled with attractions and sites that offer a taste of what’s to come from the country’s offerings. Kampala is a mix of cultures from in and out of the country.

Attractions like the Kabaka’s Palace, Uganda Martyrs Shrine Namugongo, Kasubi tombs, Uganda Museum and many others, keep one with an urge to linger in the capital city. Kampala has a wide range of accommodation facilities to suit tourists with any budget and also offers the best in premium Nightlife adventures in East Africa.

7. Premier Birding Sites: Uganda is home to over

10% of the World’s birds and 50% of Africa’s birds harbouring over 1,000 different species including some of the rarest birds. This makes the country a premium bird watching destination. The country’s parks and sites such as Kibale, Mabamba, Entebbe Botanical Gardens Beach, Mabira, and Bwindi Impenetrable forest, have the largest concentration of rare bird species in the world. These sites are easily accessible and tourists to these areas have a number of activities to indulge in, with birding sites that make a trip there worthwhile. Bird species that are a common sight include White-naped Pigeons, Green-breasted Pitta, Grey-headed Olive back, and the Joyful Greenbul, among others.

126

Best of Uganda

8. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Uganda was home

to thousands of rhinos many years back. The 1970 wars along with extreme poaching ran the rhinos extinct by 1983. In 2005, The Rhino Fund Uganda re-introduced the Southern White rhinos into Uganda. The rhino sanctuary is 168km via the Masindi-Kampala Road. There is good lodging at the sanctuary with extensive local and intercontinental culinary dishes. The sanctuary has also proven to be a good birding ground where one can freely walk as if on a bird watching excursion. It also has an abundance of bush bucks and reed bucks that are habituated on the sanctuary. Viewing these amazing creatures in this environment should be added to everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bucket list.

9. Uganda Martyrs Shrine Namugongo: The

Uganda Martyrs were among the first converts to Christianity in Uganda. Between 1885 and 1887, 22 Catholics and 23 Anglican believers were executed after refusing to denounce their faith. The youngest was 16 and a relation of one of the executioners. Today, every 3rd of June over two million faithfuls from Uganda and the rest of the world make the pilgrimage to Namugongo, just outside Kampala, to the site where most of the martyrs were executed. Three Popes, including Pope Francis, have made this personal pilgrimage. A beautiful Basilica and Museum at the Catholic and Anglican shrines respectively, are a must see for any visitor to Kampala City. Best of Uganda

127

128

Best of Uganda

10. People and Culture: Recently named as

the most ethnically diverse country on earth by the Daily Mail, one should not be surprised that Uganda’s people and their culture are an attraction for many tourists. With over 55 indigenous tribes that have all maintained their ethnic heterogeneity, Uganda has also been named as the “World’s most welcoming country to raise a family” by the UK Business Insider (2017). It is without a doubt that Uganda receives tourists with a warm welcome upon arrival. Home to over 40 indigenous ethnic groups, you will immerse yourself in a variety of cultural norms, foods and way of life from Africa to the rest of the world. And yet in spite of this cultural diversity, one bond closely knits all Ugandans warmth and friendliness.

It is certain that across the breadth of Africa and the world, there is no place like Uganda - the Pearl of Africa. Best of Uganda

129

CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY Uganda CAA on course in upgrade of aeronautical infrastructure.

In line with the Uganda Vision 2040, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) developed a 20-year National Aviation Master Plan covering the period up to 2033. A number of projects in the plan are being implemented accordingly. Top on the agenda is the modernization, upgrade and expansion of Entebbe International Airport, which is being implemented in three phases. Some of the things, which have so far been done include the following:

Automation of the Aeronautical Information Management System

The Aeronautical Information Management processes at Entebbe International Airport were automated to enable automated management of flight plans, notices to airmen (NOTAM) and electronic Aeronautical Information Publications. The new system has led to efficiency and reduction in costs incurred by air operators. Pilots and other airspace users now enjoy the convenience to perform flight planning and selfbriefing using any web enabled device as all products and services provided by AIS can now be accessed online.

Installation of a new Baggage Handling System

A new Baggage Handling System (BHS) was installed in September 2016 by the Manufacturer and Project Contractor, Vanderlande Industries B.V of Netherlands, at a cost of USD$ 4.8 million.Â Installation of the new system was in response to, inter alia, the anticipated increase in Passenger throughput, which called for enhanced Passenger handling capacity.Â

130

Best of Uganda

On-going works for airport expansion. The new system; Supports 24-hour continuous operations Provides for easy maintenance and parts replacement Is equipped with two identical integrated systems; each of them able to operate independently as the other is under maintenance Is able to handle between 1200-1800 bags per hour (compared to the old, which handled 500700 bags per hour) Provides for future upgrade options

Upgrade of the Air Traffic Control Radar

The Air Traffic Services Management System and Air Traffic Control Radar at Entebbe International Airport have been upgraded and this has led to migration from use of manual to automated electronic strips, which has reduced voice to voice communication. The ATC Radar can now integrate with Next Generation Technologies and can use data links with the Automatic Dependency Surveillance Broadcast (ADSB) in line with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Aviation System Block Upgrades (ASBU). The upgrade has subsequently increased the safety nets from four to more than ten and given the Radar an extended lifespan of another ten years.

The ongoing projects for expansion of Entebbe International Airport include:

Landside expansion of the Passenger Terminal

The existing Passenger Terminal building was opened in 1974 for peak hour traffic of 250 arriving and 250 departing passengers. The Terminal got some limited improvements as the country prepared for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 2007, elevating it to the current capacity of 410 arriving and 360 departing passengers. The Master Plan projects 930 arriving passengers and 820 departing passengers during peak hours, by 2033. The expansion is critical in providing for the growth and ensuring a good customer experience. The landside expansion by M/s Seyani Brothers (U) Ltd seeks to provide more room and comfort for service users, especially passengers. On completion, the project will deliver new Arrivals and Departure blocks. It is fully funded by CAA from internally generated revenue.

Cargo Centre

Works for the new Cargo Centre were commenced smoothly and the earthworks have been completed by the contractor, China Construction Communications Company (CCCC). The contractor is now working on the airside and landside access roads. Cargo volumes have grown from 6,600 metric tons recorded in 1991 to 59,000 tons at the turn of 2016. Projections put the tonnage at 172,000 by 2033. The proposed new 100,000 tones capacity Cargo Centre will be a self-contained facility with a Parking Apron, landslide and airside access roads, cooling facilities, a Freight Forwarders Parlor and ancillary business outlets. It is part of the USD$ 200 million loan to Uganda by China through the Exim Bank of China. Part of the loan will be used to re-surface the

Runways, Taxiways and strengthen and expand the Aprons under the same contractor. The supervising Consultant for the projects is Dar Al – Handasah Shair & Partners.

KOICA Projects

The Government of South Korea extended a Grant worth USD$ 9.5 million for improvement of Air Navigation Services and automation of Entebbe International Airport. The projects will involve; Implementation of Air Traffic Services (ATS) Message Handling System A Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and Airport Operational Database (AODB) system Improvement of Flight Procedures efficiency through Air Traffic Management The three year project commenced in March 2016 and Uganda has on its part come up with counterpart funding of approximately USD$ 250,000 (per year) towards implementation of the project that is expected to be fully delivered by 2018. The initiative will go a long way in improving safety, efficiency of airport systems and attainment of sustainability through strengthening of the human resource capacity in terms of training.

Kabaale International Airport in Hoima

Engineering designs and a Master Plan for construction of Kabaale Airport in Hoima were completed. The first phase of the project is expected to last between 17-24 months covering construction of a Code 4F Runway (which can handle big and heavy aircraft), Taxiway, Apron, multi-purpose Terminal Building for Cargo and Passengers, Fire Station, Car Park, Access Road, Perimeter fence and Electrical Centre, among other facilities. Significant strides in developing a number of regional aerodromes to harness the potential of tourism are ongoing including upgrading of regional airfields like Arua, Gulu, Soroti and Kasese among others.

Civil Aviation Authority - Entebbe International Airport P.O. Box 5536, Kampala Head Office Tel: +256 312 352000, 414 352000 Airport Tel: +256 312 353000, 414 353000 | Email: aviation@caa.co.ug www.caa.co.ug |Twitter: @UgandaCAA | Facebook: UgandaCaa

Best of Uganda

131

« HOTELS & LODGES »

132

Best of Uganda

CHAPTER 7 Best of Uganda

133

SHERATON KAMPALA HOTEL Sheraton Kampala Hotel located in the heart of Kampala City and surrounded by 9 acres of wellmanicured gardens features 236 guest rooms and suites that exemplify the beauty of Ugandan hospitality; with magnificent views of the city center on one side and the prestigious Kololo and Nakasero hills on the other side. Tailored to meet the evolving requirements of business and leisure travelers, all guest rooms feature superb views of Kampala and modern amenities including wireless internet access. Dine at the Paradise Restaurant & Grill, offering a la carte cuisine from around the world, and sumptuous buffet dinners. Seven Seas Restaurant offers a modern culinary experience with focus on seafood. For a quick meeting over a freshly brewed cup of coffee and a light snack, Park Square CafĂŠ is the perfect location. For your recreational enjoyment, Sheraton Fitness center is complete with a gymnasium, outdoor pool and newly renovated massage rooms with treatments that will make your stay at the hotel even more relaxing. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re visiting on business or leisure, Sheraton

134

Best of Uganda

Kampala Hotel offers renovated meeting rooms with various seating capacities: a magnificent ballroom, two board rooms, and a roof top meeting room. Also available is a fully equipped business center with high speed internet access, fax, photocopying and other secretarial services. Whatever your plans, the staff at the Sheraton Hotel will make your stay a memorable one. Accomodation: Retreat to one of our spacious guest rooms and suites including the Presidential Suite, Superior Rooms, Junior Suites, and Park Suites. All rooms have a balcony with either the view of the city on one side or the beautiful Kampala suburbs on the other.

Facilities: Whether you are visiting Uganda for Business or pleasure, the Sheraton Kampala Hotel will ensure that your stay is a memorable and relaxing one. We combine local warmth and award winning Sheraton standards to offer services tailored to your needs from apparel shops to salons and the exclusive ‘House of Walker’ Whisky Shop, a top of the range Fitness Centre and a fully equipped business center to elegant dining rooms and mouthwatering dishes prepared by our experienced chefs Meetings and Conferences: Whether 5 or 450 participants, Sheraton Kampala Hotel has facilities to suit any occasion be it a meeting, special event, seminar, or theme night. BARS AND RESTAURANTS; Park Square: Located in the Hotel’s Lobby on the ground floor, this is just the right ambience for business meetings, intimate coffee breaks and a cozy bar-lounge experience. Open daily from 9:00 am to 10:30 pm. Paradise Restaurant & Grill: Chart your own culinary journey with specialties from around the world, including African specials. Seven Seas Restaurant: Embark on a journey of flavor with our new seafood and modern cuisine restaurant open for business lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday.

Equator Bar & Lounge:

Lounge in the intimate ambience of rich

over 100 countries. Stay with a participating

equator its sleek appeal. Cherish the art of

brands and redeem free night awards with

natural hues and dark woods that give the

cocktails, sip on a local or international beer, or sip on an exotic medley of Martinis and specialty drinks

We invite you to be part of our rewarding SPG program:

You can earn Star Points for all of your eligible stays at over 1000 Hotels and Resorts in

Sheraton or any of our eight other distinctive

no block out dates, complimentary room upgrades and guaranteed room availability. SPG is distinguished for having more award winning hotels than any other loyalty

program, exceptional member benefits and

outstanding customer services. Join our program today, free of charge. Find out more by visiting SPG.com.

Kyoga Pool Bar: Relax by the poolside and soak up the Kampala sun. The poolside bar is the perfect place to unwind with a light snack and a drink from the fully stocked bar. Temptations: Situated in the Hotel Shopping arcade is an oasis of sheer delight, Temptations offers a range of carefully put together delights including delicate house-made pastries and sweets, wedding and special occasion cakes, and freshly baked breads of all kinds, Temptations will tempt even the strong willed. Victoria Restaurant: Located on the first floor with great view of the gardens, Victoria Restaurant serves a full American style buffet breakfast, and is also suitable for high profile lunches, cocktails and dinners.

Tel: +256 414 420 000 | www.sheratonkampala.com Facebook: facebook.com/SheratonKampala Instagram:@KampalaSheraton | Twitter: @KampalaSheraton

Best of Uganda

135

Kampala Serena H O T EL

THE KAMPALA SERENA HOTEL

One of the leading hotels of the world and Serena’s Uganda flagship, the Kampala Serena Hotel is an inspirational blend of 5-star polish, pan-African panache, social style and business reliability. Ideally located at the very heart of Kampala, our luxury business hotel stands amidst 17 acres of landscaped grounds and water gardens. An oasis of cool and green, encircled by the seven hills of Kampala, this 188 room world-class hotel is the focal point of national, regional, business, political and social life. Drawing its architectural inspiration from the abundance of Uganda’s lakes and rivers, the hotel has been created

around a central water theme, which manifests itself both in the extensive water gardens and in the hand-carved panels and shimmering mosaics with which it is decorated. Inspirationally styled as a Kampala showcase for Ugandan art, this unique 5-star hotel offers; an international conference centre, a garden auditorium, a roof-top terrace, a rock-sculptured pool terrace, three restaurants, two bars and the Moorish palace of the ‘Maisha Mind Body and Spirit Spa’. Business friendly with 5-star amenities Accommodation at Kampala Serena Hotel offers businessfriendly facilities with 5-star modern and luxury amenities and services. We offer a wide range of rooms and suites, all of which are elegantly presented in a fusion of international and Ugandan style, and all of which have private balconies or terraces. Our accommodation choices offer some of the finest places to stay in Kampala city. All our rooms and suites offer: 24-hour room service, airconditioning, Wi-Fi and in-room modem hook-up, directdial phone, voice-mail, complimentary newspaper, in-room satellite TV, mini bar, private safe, 240V/3 pin (square) sockets and shaver sockets, tea and coffee-making facilities, hair driers, bathrobes and slippers, porter/ concierge, airport shuttle and limousine service. Our exclusive Bambara Lounge is solely for the use of our residents and offers a stylish lounge with newspapers, periodicals and café service as well as a Bedouintented outdoor terrace and meeting area. Additionally, our residents are invited to use the extensive services of our Business Centre, which offers a complete range of technological support and a series of private board rooms. A world of exquisite dining and entertainment A triumph of light space and cascading water, the Kampala Serena Hotel offers a world of dining and entertaining options including some of the best restaurants in Kampala. Choose from our stunning gourmet restaurant, The Pearl of Africa (open 6pm to 10pm), The Explorers Italian Bistro (open 10am to 12 midnight), The Lakes, All-day international restaurant (open 6.30 am to 10pm) and the sparkling Pool Terrace (open 11am to 7pm).

136

Best of Uganda

Cuisine The Kampala Serena Hotel’s menus have been planned by the Group’s leading chef, John Macharia, and reflect both the best of Ugandan produce and the most enduring cultural traditions. They also reflect international influences, with plenty of references to Swahili, Asian and British cuisine. Most importantly, the cuisine reflects the truly global nature of the hotel’s clientele. Kampala’s only world-class Spa A two-storey terracotta edifice traced by delicate white pillars that blossom into bud on its sun-terraced roof, ‘Maisha’ echoes the trademark Moorish theme of its sister facility in Nairobi. Kampala’s first and only worldclass spa, ‘Maisha’ offers an unrivalled range of regimes complemented by luxuriant steam rooms, saunas, iced plunge pools and fountains brimming with pure mineral water. Other highlights • The Mist, cocktail bar; • The Sesse Pool Terrace bar and café; • Panoramic roof terrace for private cocktails and social events; • Garden auditorium; • Extensive swimming pool area with rock-built waterfall; • Running track in the grounds and golf course (nearby); • Hair and beauty salon; • International Conference Centre to seat 1,500; • VIP entrance, helipad, dedicated car park, full security; • Wide range of incentives options;

• Business Centre, travel desk, taxi and limousine service; • Wedding planning service; • Gift Shop, news-stand and travel requisites kiosks; • A Member of the Leading Hotels of the World; • World Travel Award Winner of Uganda’s Leading Hotel 2013 – 2016. The Eco View The hotel works with a wide range of local farms and growers, using organic produce wherever possible and ensuring support to the local community. The 17 acre grounds and water gardens showcase a unique collection of indigenous plants and butterflies and provide a valuable eco-space for both resident and migratory birds. The hotel abides by a code of responsible practice in relation to its ecological footprint. Additionally, we host a number of ecoprogrammes designed to support and sustain the natural and human community. The hotel offers: • An outreach programme to orphanages and hospitals in the area; • Temporary and permanent jobs for the local community; • Training and work-exposure programmes for school leavers; • Educational materials and environmental training sessions for local schools; • An Employee Wellness Programme addressing holistic health needs of Serena’s staff, as well as surrounding communities;

Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256 312 309 000 Fax: +256 414 259130 www.serenahotels.com

Best of Uganda

137

THE LAKE VICTORIA SERENA GOLF RESORT & SPA

A World Away From The City All the magic of a Mediterranean marina with a world-class golf resort - just 20 minutes from Kampala and Entebbe. Styled to replicate a pastel-shaded Italian hillside village, The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa stands out among hotels in Uganda. The resort is situated amid terraced rose gardens above its own boating marina, which has been sculpted from the sparkling waters of Lake Victoria. A gently rounded bay, studded with acacia trees, the marina is encircled by the immaculate greens of the resort’s own PGA-affiliated championship golf course. Spanned by rustic bridges and enhanced by gentle bays where a wide array of water birds gather, the course is the ultimate fusion of natural beauty and professional challenge.

138

Best of Uganda

Rising on gentle slopes above the marina with long views across the lush greens to Lake Victoria beyond, the hotel itself has been styled to echo an Italian palace with its mosaics, rustically arched pool terrace and shaded colonnades. Set within the grounds, amid water cascades and fountains, is a Roman coliseum, which offers the ultimate backdrop for weddings and events. Widely spaced amongst the shaded pathways of the gardens, are clusters of pastel-painted villas - which all enjoy panoramic views across the Marina to the hazy expanses of Africa’s second largest lake. Highlights • All the magic of a Mediterranean marina just 20 minutes from Kampala; • Uganda’s finest championship golf course – the ultimate fusion of natural beauty and sporting challenge; • Golf Memberships available; • Special Weekend Golf Packages; • A resort for all seasons, a retreat for recreation and romance alike; • Wedding & Honeymoons; • Residential Apartments; • Children’s Activities; • Gym & Maisha Spa - a state-of-the-art gym and choice of relaxing treatments • Surrounded by nature - on the shores of Africa’s largest lake; • World Travel Awards (Uganda’s Leading Hotel Suite 2014 – 2016).

Tuscan Villas at the edge of Lake Victoria Widely spaced amongst the rose gardens, clusters of pastel-painted villas offer a choice of: 124 rooms, 114 Standard Rooms, 8 Executive Suites and 2 Presidential Suites – all with private verandahs and lake views. Each room features either queen-sized or twin beds, a dressing table, work station, seating area, balcony and lavish marble bathroom with walkin shower. Offering some of the best suite accommodation in Uganda, our Executive Suites also feature a spacious living area with flat-screen TV, office space and second balcony. For the ultimate luxury hotel stay in Uganda, our two Presidential Suites are located on the penthouse level of the main citadel and feature: a luxury ensuite bedroom with king-sized bed, an elegant reception room, dining room (with private kitchen), furnished terrace and staff accommodation. State-of-the-art gym and treatments The Maisha Mind Body and Spirit Spa offers relaxation and wellness on the shores of Lake Victoria in Uganda. Situated adjacent to the pool deck, our spa contrasts the gleaming state-of-the-art technology of its gymnasium and cardio studio with the terracotta floors and rustic arches of the Spa. Dining, bars and entertainment The Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa offers a

standout selection of restaurants. The Citadel all-day brasserie is the perfect choice for a breakfast, lunch or dinner near Kampala. The brasserie’s à la carte evening menu features both an international selection and the Chef’s own array of typically Mediterranean cuisine. A wide selection of snacks can be enjoyed, either on the extensive Lake View Pool Terrace, in the Courtyard Lounge or on the Piano Bar Terrace. The South East Fusion Restaurant presents an elegant blend of Chinese Imperial style and Balinese simplicity. This fine-dining restaurant draws its inspiration from the exotic cuisine of the Far East. Scenically located overlooking the rose-gardens its spacious outside terrace offers long views down to the Marina – ideal for al fresco lunches or candle-lit evening dinners. We offer a 24-hour room service with an extensive menu. Location On the shores of Lake Victoria in the Kigo District (equidistant between Kampala and Entebbe), Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa is a 20-minute drive (30 km) from Entebbe International Airport and 20-minute drive to the centre of Kampala (15 km). The resort is also shortly to be linked to the EntebbeKampala express highway that joins Kampala to Jinja by means of a four-lane toll highway. The resort features its own helipad offering link services to the flagship 5-star Serena Kampala Hotel.

Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa, Lweza-Kigo Road Off Entebbe Road, Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256 417121000 or +256 31 3221 000 | Fax: +256 417121550 | www.serenahotels.com

Best of Uganda

139

WELCOME TO EXCLUSIVE CAMPS AND LODGES Top quality safari accommodation with a focus on nature, flora, fauna and cultures in the wilderness areas where we are situated. We aim to conserve Uganda’s heritage with low impact tourism, ensuring that we offer experiences to the highest comforts possible for our guests, while operating in a socially and environmentally responsible manner.

Platinum Wilderness Camping

Our ‘Platinum’ Wilderness Camp has been designed to cater for guests who want complete privacy, particularly in areas of Uganda which may not offer suitable alternative accommodation. It is ideal for small groups of VIP guests, or families and for privately guided groups with special interests such as bird-watching. The camp is exclusively erected for the duration of your group’s stay and the location is based on your choice of area you wish to explore. With only eight tents per camp, staff are fully focused on good service, great food and our guests’ ultimate comfort. Each large airy tent which is, of course, insect-proofed, has a well-furnished bedroom area with double or twin beds, good solar lighting and en suite bathrooms. We provide eco-friendly flushing toilets and hot bush showers. Quality mattresses and bed linens are used to ensure a good night’s rest after the day’s activities. A dining tent with lounge annex provides a central area for guests to gather for meals and to relax. Meals are freshly prepared by experienced safari chefs and include sundowner aperitifs and picnics when the itinerary requires. A well-stocked bar is also naturally included and specific preferences can be arranged with advance notice. We ensure the camp is fully outfitted with 4×4 safari vehicles, guides and also boats when required (in suitable sites) for guests’ activities. Or, if they prefer, they may arrive

140

Best of Uganda

with their own vehicles and we will simply provide ‘camp services’. We are completely flexible and happy to accommodate any request. Locations • Murchison Falls National Park • Queen Elizabeth National Park • Lake Mburo National Park • Semliki National Park

Ishasha Wilderness Camp - Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

Situated within the Southern Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park on the Ntungwe River, Ishasha is an idyllic retreat for people who truly enjoy the wilderness. This exclusive camp offers superb quality accommodation and services in this unspoilt remote section of the Park - famous for its tree climbing lions that can sometimes be spotted resting in the branches of the large fig trees in the area. Within the park, the wildlife is free to pass through the camp and elephants can be seen bathing in the river, buffalo enjoy grazing and resident troops of Black-and-White Colobus and vervet monkeys are frequently viewed from the camp. Spacious, Wooden Framed, Canvas Tented Rooms Adjacent to the Ntungwe River, each of the camp’s ten spacious canvastented rooms has a private verandah overlooking the river. Comfortably furnished with large mosquito-netted beds, all rooms are en suite with hot ‘bush’ showers, running water for handbasins and a flushing toilet. Restaurant and Bar The thatched central lounge and dining area provides a comfortable setting for meals and relaxation, although meals are often served ‘al fresco’ next to the river.

In the evening, the outdoor fireplace is the perfect place for guests to relax with sundowners and share their day’s experiences. Meals are freshly prepared with many local ingredients, offering a balance of international and locally flavoured cuisine. Other Services • Attentive security staff are always on hand to escort you and assist should you feel the wildlife is too close for comfort! • Bush Breakfasts and Sundowners within the wilderness of the National Park complete the ‘bush’ experience offered at Ishasha Wilderness Camp. • Complementary Wi-Fi internet, recharging facilities and a curio/local craft shop are available on site. Activities • Safaris in the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. • Community Tours & Visits - Deo’s Model Homestead Tour & Agartha’s Taste of Uganda Tour. • Hot Air Ballooning - Early morning flight over Ishasha offers stunning vistas of the park and surrounding Rwenzori Mountains. • Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge. • Cruise the Kazinga Channel - A tranquil river cruise with excellent chances of spotting elephants on the river-bank, hippos in the water and a plethora of water-birds. • Birding and Wildlife Walks.

Best of Uganda

141

Baker’s Lodge – Murchison Falls

Deriving its name from the historic English explorer Samuel Baker, Baker’s Lodge is situated on the South bank of the mighty Nile River which transects Murchison Falls National Park. This intimate, safari styled lodge is set within a large private area with direct river access, large shady trees and wetland areas hosting abundant birdlife along the water’s edge. The views onto the river are vast and magnificent with islands hosting nesting egret birds, elephants bathing and pods of hippos regularly viewed. Spacious Thatched Safari Suites Each of the individual thatched safari suites is raised from the ground on supporting pillars with its own deck overlooking the river. Care has been taken to ensure each of the eight suites has privacy as well as excellent views either up or down stream. The large, airy facilities are fan cooled, have netted windows with opening options, customised solid wooden furniture, hanging mosquito nets and especially selected locally crafted items for the accessories. The en-suite bathrooms are open plan with solar hot water showers and baths with a view in some units. Solar lighting completes the services for this eco-friendly top quality establishment. Restaurant and Bar The thatched central lounge, bar and dining area which is raised with wooden decks all around allowing guests to savour the morning sunrise for breakfast and sunset in the evening with 180 degree river views. Full multi-course dining is offered, as well as a good selection of wines and other bar items, all served by our well-trained and experienced Ugandan staff team. When weather conditions allow, guests can enjoy al-fresco dining on our decks or besides the river. Other Services • Our on-site jetty, just meters from the central dining area offers access to our fleet of water-craft.

142

Best of Uganda

• Excursions include: the base of Murchison Falls, The Nile Delta on Lake Albert, Sunset/Sunrise Cruises or Sport Fishing. • On-site vehicles can be reserved for safari drives on the vast savannah of the Northern Bank, to the top of the falls, or to nearby Budongo Forest to track wild Chimpanzees. • Swimming pool area. • A curio shop of local crafts. Activities • Safaris in Murchison Falls National Park. • Top of Murchison Falls Hiking and Walk. • Sport Fishing. • Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest. • Hot Air Ballooning. • Leisure Cruises.

Buhoma Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

A top quality and intimate property, Buhoma Lodge commands spectacular and uninterrupted views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, home to the rare and elusive Mountain Gorilla. One of only two lodges situated within the National Park, we’re a short walking distance from the meeting point for gorilla tracking. An elevated central lounge area, complete with bar, dining and spa facilities, offers a cosy, comfortable environment to discuss the day’s activities around the fireplaces which add atmosphere and warmth in the cool evenings. Chalets with a View Our ten comfortable chalets have been individually designed and carefully built using locally sourced materials wherever possible, without compromising comfort. Each private veranda offers magnificent views of the forest canopy. Each secure chalet is fitted with insect-proof window screens and eco-friendly solar lighting. Our family/ honeymoon chalet also features a separate lounge room with an open fireplace. Restaurant and Bar Our open-air lounge and bar area offer uninterrupted views, and whether the eerie mists of the forest envelope you, or your views are crisp and bright, Buhoma offers its own special magic. Relax around our open fireside, or enjoy a few drinks at the bar, followed by a four-course meal freshly prepared from local produce. Complimentary wifi and charging facilities are available throughout the lodge.

Other Services • Spa treatment room - complimentary massage by our trained in-house masseuse. • Complimentary laundry and hiking-boot cleaning service. • Special occasions - private dining, cultural dancing and interaction, as well as room service. • Responsible Tourism Policy - sustainable local materials used wherever possible, with emphasis on natural, eco-friendly products, which support local communities and businesses. • Water supply is gravity fed and solar power is used for lighting and power points which are limited to the central area. • Curio shop - on site with a range of locally-made crafts. Activities • The Mountain Gorilla Trekking Experience. • Buhoma Community Village Walk. • Bwindi Community Hospital. • The Batwa Tradition & Cultural Experience. • Bwindi Forest Walk. • Bird & Butterfly Watching.

Plot 3 Nsamizi Close, Entebbe Tel: +256 772 721 155 / +256 414 321 479 www.ugandaexclusivecamps.com

Best of Uganda

143

MARASA Africa Where the unforgettable happens

All of our hospitality properties have been consolidated under Marasa Holdings, and as we expect to grow; our future vision is for Marasa to be one of the largest providers of high quality, comfortable and charming safari lodges in East Africa. The story of our journey to Uganda started over a century ago and from humble beginnings our activities have grown from strength to strength in Uganda and beyond. At the forefront of industrial development and business, we are now one of the largest diversified private-sector employers in East Africa, employing over 10,000 people and providing a livelihood and supporting, both directly and indirectly, over 150,000 individuals in Uganda alone. Despite our diversity and size, our business continues to be proudly African and we continue to recognize the key values that have contributed to our success by embracing the stakeholders and communities in which we operate as our destiny is entwined with theirs. We strive to engage with and empower these communities and ensure that we continue to grow hand in hand with them wherever possible. Our vision to share our breathtaking country to those from beyond our borders and even to far away shores led us to acquire and develop what we felt to be locations of outstanding natural beauty. Each of these properties also represents the combination of the very best of what there is to offer at these destinations.

144

Best of Uganda

OUR HOTELS Chobe Safari Lodge This lodge is undoubtedly the gem in Uganda’s crown of tourism destinations. With breath-taking panoramic views and the sights and sounds of the Nile, it sets the scene for an adventure of a lifetime. Paraa Safari Lodge Situated in the north west of Uganda overlooking one of nature’s best kept secrets, the River Nile on its journey from its source at Lake Victoria to join Lake Albert. Paraa Safari Lodge offers a unique blend of comfort, relaxation and adventure.

“When it comes to your personal journey to Uganda or Kenya, we invite you to experience the beauty of these two incredible destinations in one of our unique and comfortable properties. Whether in planning your entire trip or staying at one of our well-appointed lodges, we graciously welcome you to the safari experience of a lifetime. Discover for yourself what has attracted us to this most awesome region for over four generations!” “Our mission is to put the ‘extra’ in the extraordinary and by having that very special longstanding presence and passion for East Africa, we are sure to surprise and delight you! Karibu!” Mayur Madhvani, Managing Director

Mweya Safari Lodge Located on a peninsula within the heart of the Queen Elizabeth National Park, Mweya Safari Lodge is surrounded by the magical Rwenzori Mountains aptly described as the ‘Mountains of the Moon’. Silverback Lodge Silverback Lodge, located in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in western Uganda, Silverback Lodge is only a 5 minutes walk to the national park and has sweeping views of the valley and forests that surround it. Jinja Sailing Club Jinja Sailing Club is a modern and upmarket Restaurant, Conference, Bar, Banqueting and Boat Cruise facility on the shores of Lake Victoria, near the Source of the Nile River.

MARASA Africa Central Reservations Office Tel: +256 312 260260/1, +256 414 255992 Fax: +256 312 260262 Email: reservations@marasa.net www.marasa.net

Best of Uganda

145

Chobe Safari Lodge

Above the banks of the River Nile; this lodge is undoubtedly the gem in Uganda’s crown of tourism destination with breath-taking panoramic views and the sights and sounds of the Nile, it sets the scene for an adventure of a lifetime.

Located in the Murchison Falls National Park, this lodge is undoubtedly the gem in Uganda’s crown of tourism destinations. The breathtaking panoramic views, coupled with the sounds of the River Nile’s magnificent rapids, sets the scene for an adventure that will impress even the most discerning of visitors. Chobe Safari Lodge offers a unique opportunity to sample the wildlife, birds, flora and fauna; all in an area of the park that has yet to be discovered. This area of Murchison Falls National Park is ideal for fishing, and will revive this newly refurbished lodge to become one of the best fishing destinations in Africa.

meeting point after a long day on safari, or before and after dining. There is ample space for you to relax and unwind – with a bit of support from our fully stocked bar! The furniture and interior reflects a unique fusion of modern and ‘Safari’ style décor. Activities With varied activities including; Safari Drives, Fishing, Nature Walks, Visits to Murchison Falls, as well as Bush Breakfasts and Dinners.

Accommodation Chobe Safari Lodge features 36 elegant guest rooms, 21 luxury tents, 4 suites and a Presidential Cottage. The River Nile is the main focus from an architect’s perspective, and so all the rooms and luxury tents have balconies and terraces facing the magnificent sweeping views. The choice of accommodation at the lodge varies. Karuma Restaurant & Cuisine Treat yourself to the mouthwatering menu of local and international specialties produced by our experienced Chefs. Barbecues and traditional dancers make dining outdoors at Chobe Safari Lodge an unforgettable experience. Dining in the Karuma restaurant is a unique experience where modern interior décor blends with the safari feel. ZEN elements of flowing streams of water can be seen from inside the restaurant in the air-conditioned interior. For those who like dining outdoors, the terrace is a scenic setting with spectacular panoramic views across the River Nile. After dining, the Karuma bar is right next door to the restaurant and is the perfect setting for a night-cap or aperitif! The Karuma Bar & Terrace The Karuma Bar is located in the central part of the lodge. With large glass windows facing the terrace and river below, the Karuma bar is the perfect 146

Best of Uganda

“10 Gyms With The Most Amazing Views”- CNN 2011 www.chobelodgeuganda.com

Silverback Lodge

Intimate and perched; the ultimate mountain gorilla experience in East Africa; Perfect for relaxing and enjoying the magnificent landscape of the Bwindi forest.

Silverback Lodge, located in the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in western Uganda, Silverback Lodge is only a five minute walk to the national park and has sweeping views of the valley and forests that surround it. The lodge has sweeping views of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – a 124-square-mile UNESCO site home to approximately 350 mountain gorillas (half of the world’s remaining population), non-habituated chimpanzees, more than 100 other species of mammals, 346 species of birds, and 163 species of trees. The Lodge The view is absolutely stunning and the best place to enjoy après-tracking cocktails. Bird watching and sometimes primate viewing is possible right from the front door of your room. With 12 rooms, we are the largest lodge in the area and will remain one of the best value properties in the region, whilst keeping the Marasa Africa standards of comfort and hospitality.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Gorilla trekking Bird watching 6 varying trails for hiking Day and night trips to Queen Elizabeth National Park (2 hour drive to Ishasha). Popular Waterfall Trails Nature Walks Buhoma Village Walk The Munyaga River Trail The River Ivi Trail The Rushora Trail Community Hospital Visits Mountain Bike Rides The Bwindi Batwa Trail

Accommodation • 1 single room • 4 double rooms • 7 twin rooms These were built and designed using local materials, such as forest vines, sisal rope and purple slate stone. Each room has an en-suite bathroom (with hot water showers) and comfortable chairs on the veranda for viewing the flora and fauna that make up the surroundings in the valley. Activities Silverback Lodge is perched high above the valley overlooking beautiful flora and fauna. From the Summit Bar you can enjoy après-trekking cocktails with friends and family. Bird watching and primate viewing are possible right from the front door of your room. The lodge has beautiful gardens, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the magnificent landscape of the Bwindi forest after a long day’s hike.

www.silverbacklodge.com Best of Uganda

147

Families may be more comfortable in our affordable, family cottages, namely “The Rwenzori Cottage” and “The Royal Cottage”. For those demanding something more luxurious and exclusive, the “Queens Cottage” and “The Presidential Cottage” will be sure to meet your demands. The Presidential Cottage, The Queens Cottage, 2 Family Cottages, 2 Luxury Tents, 2 Standard Tents. Restaurant & Cuisine Guests may choose to dine indoors in our elegant, formal dining room, or outside on the veranda, where the setting is enhanced by spectacular panoramic views across the Kazinga Channel. Treat yourself to the mouth-watering menu of local and international specialties produced by our experienced chefs. Special barbecues and traditional dancers make a Saturday evening at Mweya Safari Lodge an occasion to remember.

Mweya Safari Lodge

The Tembo Bar The Tembo Bar has panoramic view over looking the Kazinga channel and Lake Edward. Enjoy the shimmering sunset over the lake, whilst drinking a wonderful sundowner. The bar verandahs are a perfect place to relax after a day out in the national park. The décor and furniture represents a bygone era of early explorers, synonymous with the term ‘safari’ Activities Birding, Safari Drives, Water Safaris, Chimpanzee Trekking, Katwe Explosion Crater excursions, Culture Talks, Tree-Climbing Lions, Lion Trekking, Bush Breakfasts and Dinners and Hot-air Ballooning.

In the heart of the Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Mweya Safari Lodge offers visitors an unforgettable experience. Located on a peninsula within the heart of the Queen Elizabeth National Park, Mweya Safari Lodge is surrounded by the magical Rwenzori Mountains aptly described as the ‘Mountains of the Moon’. To the east, lie the guardians of the birthplace of mankind, the Great Rift Valley hills, separated from the Mountains of the Moon by the meandering Kazinga Channel. Here the water flows endlessly into two giant lakes – Lake George and Lake Edward. We believe beyond doubt that unique encounters always begin off the beaten track… Accommodation We have the following types of accommodation available at Mweya Safari Lodge: – 32 Standard Rooms, 12 Deluxe Rooms with Air-conditioning, 2 Suites.For those guests seeking the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity, Mweya Safari Lodge offers numerous configurations of cottages to suit your needs and requirements. 148

Best of Uganda

www.mweyalodge.com

Paraa Safari Lodge The Jewel of the Nile...

Situated in the north west of Uganda overlooking one of nature’s best kept secrets, the River Nile. Established in 1954, Paraa Safari Lodge is in Murchison Falls National Park. The lodge is located in the north west of Uganda overlooking one of nature’s best kept secrets, the River Nile, on its journey from its source at Lake Victoria to join Lake Albert – here it is suddenly channeled into a gorge only six meters wide, and cascades 43 meters below. The earth literally trembles at Murchison Falls – one of the world’s most powerful flows of natural water. Paraa Safari Lodge offers a unique blend of comfort, relaxation and adventure. Each of the rooms is a haven of style and serenity, complete with balcony and private bathroom.

the upper floor in what was one of the lodge’s main halls before it was renovated. You can choose to eat inside or outside on the balcony (which boasts a sweeping view of the River Nile). Special barbecues and traditional dancers make a Saturday evening at Paraa Safari Lodge an occasion to remember. The Explorer’s Bar The Explorer’s Bar is located on the upper floor of the lodge, next to the restaurant. We invite you to sit on one of our sofa’s, cool off and enjoy a drink after a long day out in the bush. Activities Chimpanzee Trekking, Safari Drives, Birding, Visits to Murchison Falls, Nature Walks, Fishing, Boat Trips to the Delta, Bush Breakfasts, Dinners and Hot Air Balloon Safaris.

The safari décor of the lodge still reflects the bygone era of early explorers, enshrined with a modern touch. The luxurious pool overlooks the winding River Nile below, which was the setting for the classic Hollywood movie “The African Queen” (starring Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart). Enjoy a variety of excursions and activities; from exhilarating Safari drives to boat trips along the River Nile, ending at the foot of Murchison Falls. For the more adventurous, one can trek up to the top of the falls and marvel at the views through the mist. A variety of ecosystems and an impressive 451 species of birds awaits you here… Accommodation Each of the Deluxe tents at Paraa Safari Lodge are complete with balcony and en-suite private bathroom. In 1864, when the famous British explorer Samuel Baker first glimpsed the power of the Murchison Falls, his accommodation was rudimentary at best. He would have been as stunned by Paraa Safari Lodge today! The choice of accommodation at the lodge varies – a cottage, suites, double, twin and single. Restaurant & Cuisine Treat yourself to the mouth-watering menu of local and international specialties produced by our experienced chefs. The Captain’s Table restaurant is located on

www.paraalodge.com Best of Uganda

149

« DINING, NIGHTLIFE & BREWERIES » 150

Best of Uganda

CHAPTER 8 Best of Uganda

151

Dining and Nightlife Dining

Here we bring you restaurants in Uganda serving unique and delicious cuisine – based on local and intercontinental dishes.

The Pearl of Africa @ Kampala Serena Strategically located on the first floor of Kampala Serena Hotel, with magnificent views over the water gardens, the lustrous ‘Pearl of Africa’ restaurant blends stark black granite with opalescent marble to create a timeless ‘silver screen’ backdrop for its worldclass cuisine. A fine-dining experience like no other, The Pearl of Africa offers an intuitive fusion of menu choices, featuring international, national and regional cuisines. Varied in style, this unique restaurant offers elegant niche seating, a more relaxed outdoor terrace where fountains play, its own exclusive private dining room and an intimate yet relaxed central dining room, which centres on a raised piano dais where a resident pianist plays every night.

152

Best of Uganda

www.thirdlocal.com

With the growing number of restaurants in Uganda, the country now boasts some of the most amazing eateries in East Africa. Restaurants in Uganda offer excellent dining options for all tastes and favourable budgets, while Ugandan chefs are capable of preparing delicacies that will have you enjoying mouth-watering dishes.

The Explorer @ Kampala Serena An Italian Bistro located on the Ground Floor of the Kampala Serena Hotel offering a uniquely off-beat tribute to Africa’s early explorers. Replicating a jungleengulfed ruined city, it is reminiscent of a scene from ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’. Dotted with safari antiques and sepia images, this warmly-welcoming bistro features an exterior water garden with ponds and bridges. Inside, the long bar offers a wide range of wines, beers and spirits while the cuisine features the very best of Italy. It is very cozy and has a nice little square outside where you can enjoy Italian food which is excellent, well presented and deliciously prepared by their top chefs.

Seven Seas @ Sheraton Kampala One of the few places in Kampala where one can feel at home, strategically located in the centre of the city at the Sheraton Hotel catering to your seafood, pasta and steak cravings. The menu also offers Chefs recommendations prepared to your personal taste; from Dorado, Mackerel to Lobsters, Crabs and Octopus, accompanied with your choice of specialty sauces. The restaurant offers a warm ambience brought to life by the restaurant’s laid back and nautical contemporary wooden design. You can choose to dine inside under the warm and cozy wooden ceiling adorned with white sails or on the romantic al fresco deck with the sound of the rushing water created by our beautiful outdoor fountain. This is a place where one can dine every night of the week and find a differently themed food variety. Service is swift, food displayed as a buffet and the quality is on point. The food is fresh and well prepared by highly skilled chefs! The environment is perfect for meetings and lunch catch-ups with friends, whilst access to Hotel facilities such as the swimming pool, gym and bar among others are available.

Nyanja @ Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort This restaurant is located at Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort, serving multi-cuisine and wellness menus 24 hours a day, enabling guests to enjoy superb cuisine at any time. The restaurant provides ample space for a group of people to experience a culinary journey together; whilst set against a soothing tranquil background, with a selection of Continental, Seafood, Grill and Carribean among other cuisines available. Apart from exquisite food and beverages, Nyanja is a gateway to an informal, natural ambiance that is accentuated by its outdoor extension of Lake Terrace.

Lake Terrace @ Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort

This is the restaurant to encounter the best culinary experience combined with warm ambience, offering multi-cuisine and wellness menus throughout the day. It is tranquil and surrounded by well-kept gardens and the soothing waters of Lake Victoria. Borrowing from the freshness, and characterized by the ambience of its outdoor and heavenly setting, everything at Lake Terrace from recipes and ingredients, to the “up to you” mealtimes, makes for a fabulous experience. As the Al Fresco ambience dictates only smart casual attire will do for this culinary finesse.

Best of Uganda

153

Le Chateau Brasserie Belge Restaurant

Nawabâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Asian Bistro The restaurant is located on top of the Acacia Mall, Kololo and serves Indian and Asian food. The restaurant offers an incredible view and cool air, being situated on the roof top. The furniture is cozy making the place stylishly luxurious, with a tastefully decorated restaurant with a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. The staff are professional and attentive, while the food is delicious. If you enjoy eating outdoors with great views, this is the place.

Nightlife Guvnor

Located in the industrial area on 1st Street, the club is slick and shiny with chrome and mirrors covering nearly every inch of space. Ensuring AC throughout creates a cool atmosphere, with great sound, music and waiters who are active and loyal. With a section called GUVNOR 40+ to cater for more discerning patrons.

Liquid Silk

Located on Village Mall in Bugolobi, and in the Naalya suburb, Liquid Silk is one of the most popular classy hangouts in Kampala and also boasts a state of the art sound system fused with a dazzling visual system providing the ultimate ambience for partiers. Liquid Silk offers lunch, dinner and the recently introduced breakfast plus a buffet that goes on until midnight. Given its corporate nature, Liquid Silk has a vast chill-out area and a smaller dance floor.

154

Best of Uganda

www.thirdlocal.com

Located on Ggaba Road, the newly refurbished Le Chateau Restaurant is breathtaking and one of the top places to have a delicious Belgian, European and French cooked meal in Kampala. Le Chateau Brasserie Belge proudly offers more than just mouthwatering food for our guests. Enchanting Ambience, mouthwatering Belgian and European Cuisine of the highest standard coupled with attentive service to deliver a faultless dining experience. With the creative use of planting and lighting, their attentive staff, and an excellent wine list, and the family-owned butchery providing the basis for excellent meat dishes; this is absolutely a must go-to restaurant.

Equator Bar @ Sheraton Kampala

Overlooking the splendid gardens, the bar offers a revolutionary menu, cocktails and wine pairings coupled with tasty snacks. As the sun sets, it is wise to head to the Equator Bar, an exclusive high-wire English pub and try out its well shaken and creative cocktails. If you feel like dancing, stop by and enjoy good music all-night as the doors open until 5am on weekends. Wireless Internet access is available, and operates Monday - Sunday from 10am to 3pm.

The Mists Bar @ Kampala Serena

The Mist Bar evokes the misty mountain habitat of Uganda’s famous gorillas and is named after the famous 1988 film ‘Gorillas in the Mist’. The setting of the bar is incredible in the evenings where you can enjoy your drink in peace and quiet. The atmosphere is inviting and the staff extremely attentive. They have a well-stocked bar which is usually frequented by the country’s cream including Ministers, Royals and Tycoons. The music is good and not too loud where patrons can enjoy good conversation.

Riders Lounge

Located at Acacia place, Kololo and at Village Mall in Bugolobi, this luxurious bar and restaurant has the finest service. The bar targets middle class clients, corporates and diplomats. Riders Lounge is open for breakfast, stag parties, anniversaries and fine dining. The lounge at Acacia Place is a semi-open area, which allows free aeration and a view of Acacia Avenue. The interior décor is beautiful and creates a classy ambience with wine and cocktail evenings with their Flaming Lamborghini being one of their signature cocktails and not to be missed.

Brisk Restaurant Café & Lounge

Located on Plot 6, Wampewo Avenue in Kololo. This fancy hangout is one of the newest bars in the city; having recently opened it is already one of the most popular and frequented venues, considering it is one of the more expensive. The bar boasts a stylish interior with a cozy ambience. Like many other bars, Brisk Lounge is open every day and also offers breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Bubbles O’Leary’s

This Irish Pub is located along Acacia Avenue in Kampala’s Kololo suburb surrounded by great restaurants and cafes, Bubbles makes a convenient after dinner destination. Bubbles serves lunch; superb pizza and offers free Wi-Fi. Revelers can enjoy their favourite sport; with pub food available. One of the best parts about Bubbles is the staff, they are accommodating, thoughtful and always ready to make friends. It also has a popular Wednesday night that features local bands.

The Alchemist

Located on Bandali Rise in Bugolobi where the bar is usually open as early as mid-day for those clients looking to enjoy lunch. Regulars at The Alchemist describe the bar as the most exciting nightlife venue that offers not only chilled beer, but also tasty meals and cocktails. The spot exudes a blend of mystery and glamour with the well standing young working class coming to party all night. To attract more revelers and boost sales, management introduced Happy Hour that runs from 4pm to 8pm every day of the week.

Club Play

Located at 2nd Street Industrial Area at former T1 club, Club Play is the place to be for the most recent tunes. With luxurious dance floors, professional service, delicious cocktails and much more, this spot is known for its passionate crowd, relaxed atmosphere and good sound system this is a place you can visit any night of the week.

Best of Uganda

155

Jinja Sailing Club

Jinja Sailing Club is a modern and upmarket luxury Restaurant, Bar, Banqueting and Boat Cruise facility on the shores of Lake Victoria, near the Source of the Nile River.

The picturesque and tranquil gardens by the lake set the scene for a perfect family retreat. Whether it is for that long awaited, cold beer in the Explorer’s Bar at the end of a hardworking day, or for a mouth-watering meal at The Captain’s Table, we can satisfy your requirements! • Beautiful gardens on the Shores of Lake Victoria; with a cool, fresh breeze all through the day • The Captain’s Table; the only fine dining restaurant in town • The Explorer’s Bar; state-of-the-art with all premium spirits and wine selection. We also offer the best cocktails and very comfortable seating arrangements • Conference Facilities • Weddings and Private Events • Luxury Boat Cruises The Jinja Sailing Club has and always will hold a special place in the hearts of the Madhvani family members, who frequently visited the site as it is very close to their home in Kakira. The site was initially chosen for its close proximity to the Source of the River Nile, and for its beautiful setting on the shores of Lake Victoria. The club’s restaurant and bar were famous for serving up delicious Continental, African and Indian dishes, and the gardens played host to wonderful Sunday buffets! 156

Best of Uganda

The Madhvani family recently decided to completely renovate the club; the gardens have been redesigned, the club’s main restaurant and bar have been completely renovated with a modern touch, and a conference building has been built on the premises. Sunset boat cruises have been introduced to complete the entire package! We believe we have created the perfect getaway. You have seen the rest, now come try the best! Activities Being located on the shores of Lake Victoria gives us an added advantage which allows us to provide unique experiences to our guests. We have a brand new boat which offers sunset/sunrise/day cruises on the lake, as well as fantastic gardens in which you can relax and enjoy time spent with friends and family. We want to do more for our local community by hosting regular entertainment evenings from time to time. The Captain’s Table Restaurant Whether coming alone or with a large group, the Captain’s Table is the perfect place to have your meal. The completely renovated restaurant has a marvelous view of Lake Victoria, and the interior décor and ambiance create a delightful atmosphere in which to wine and dine. Dining is all a la carte, however we do arrange buffets in the beautiful gardens on request. Like our quirky T-REX close outside, we ask that you bring a GIGANTIC appetite. Leave the rest to us! *Opening hours are 12h00 to 22h45 daily. Private Functions/Events We have the ideal and breathtaking location to host weddings, parties and private functions. There is ample space in and around our beautiful gardens, as well as in our restaurant and bar, and we can provide everything to make your event a special one. Bonfire Nights A bonfire is a rite of passage for many people. It provides an excellent opportunity for friends to engage in conversation, storytelling, music making and general camaraderie. Sharing time with friends and family

members around a cozy bonfire is one of the best ways to escape the hustle and bustle of the fast paced world we live and work in. Come for a meal or drink at the JINJA SAILING CLUB on FRIDAYS, and we aim to provide you with a platform of enjoyment in which you can do exactly that. Bring your own guitars or instruments, fire poi etc... and we guarantee you a place to let them breathe and come alive around our fire... Boat Cruises on Lake Victoria Our Boat Cruises to the source of the Nile and on Lake Victoria are very popular. We do offer drinks and snacks upon request on the boat to make your trip even more memorable. The Suntracker Boat Capacity is 12 guests at a time. The Kingfisher Boat takes 8 guests at a time.

Plot 1-5 Pier Road, Nile Crescent, Jinja Tel: +256 434 120222/333 Email: marketing@jinjasailingclub.com www.jinjasailingclub.com

Best of Uganda

157

UGANDA WARAGI:

THE SPIRIT OF UGANDA What is a spirit? Where does it come from? It’s the warmth of friendship, the chill of anxiety and the energy that moves us... it’s the vibe pulsing through all of us. The spirit defines the individual; it is you! It’s not easily contained, must run free... it must be shared.

new flavours have not only captured the diversity of Ugandans, but also given the people new ways to experience their favourite gin.

For hundreds of years, Ugandans have shared their spirit with the world; one that stood out for its uniqueness, its strength and its character. And for 50 years, we have shared it with people both near and far, a true embodiment of who we are, savoured by all.

Uganda Waragi comes in glass packaging of 750ml with RRP at Ushs 20,000/=; 350ml at Ushs 10,500; 200ml at Ushs 6,000, 200ml PET bottle at 4,600/=, 100ml PET bottle at Ushs 2,600 and 100ml sachet at Ushs 1,500.

To appreciate the drink that was once referred to as “War Gin” by the colonial masters is to understand its place in Uganda’s history. It is by no accident that it is affectionately known as The Spirit of Uganda.

It is enjoyed best when mixed and some of the simple serves include: • UG Tonic {Fill two-thirds of the glass with ice, pour over 50ml UG Original, add premium tonic water, stir well and garnish with a fresh wedge of lime} • UG Zest- {Fill two-thirds of the glass with ice, pour over 50ml UG Original, add Krest, stir well and garnish with a fresh wedge of lime.} • UG Fizz- {Fill two-thirds of the glass with ice, pour over 50ml UG Coconut, add Sprite, stir well and garnish with a fresh wedge of lime}

Originally passed down from generation to generation, it was not until after Uganda’s independence that it was first packed and touted as the country’s first manufactured Triple Distilled gin. Uganda Waragi continues to be a high quality world class spirit having consistently won Gold in the Mode Selection Awards for four consecutive years and intends to maintain this legacy into the future. Uganda Waragi is the only gin in the world to use the unique combination of Botanicals including lime peel, nutmeg and cassia bark! It’s a bold vibrant Gin that has over the year’s taken a leading role in bringing people together over the years. Since 1965, it is the spirit that binds Ugandans in celebration; so much so that it proudly and organically took on the colours of the Uganda Flag and the Crested Crane as its symbol, as the brand is an authentic representation of the Ugandan People

The brand mirrors our uniqueness as Ugandans; a bold and bespoke fashion style, our colourful colloquialism captured in our speech and a penchant for celebration at every and any moment, big and small. Uganda Waragi continues to stay true to its message by inspiring Ugandans to celebrate their Ugandaness every day. Here’s to Uganda and to the Spirit that binds us!

Its popularity is not singular! It is a gin enjoyed across a wide demographic. In much the same way the Ugandans embrace all around them, with no reservation and no query, Uganda Waragi’s taste is not a preserve of the chosen few. White or blue collar, black or white, Uganda Waragi brings us all together. Nothing says UGANDA better than the country’s Spirit. It is therefore only fitting that this drink, an icon of true Ugandaness, is one of the country’s most popular exports. Just like the country and its people, the brand has evolved over the years, speaking to its commitment to staying the market leader and a true representative of the Ugandan spirit today and in the future. The evolution of the brand can be seen through the various pack renovations over the years and mostly recently through the BOLD choice to introduce flavoured variants such as UG Coconut in order to fit consumers increasing appetite for different tasting drinks. The

Uganda Breweries Limited, Plot 3 – 17 Port Bell | P. O Box 7130 Kampala - Uganda Tel: 0800200099 | ugandabreweries.com 158

Best of Uganda

159

E F I L G t RIN

n e U m PO Every Mo into

The River Nile near Jinja

PROUDLY AFRICAN BUILDING COMMUNITIES - CONNECTING MINDS

Proudly African is an initiative of GlobalVillage.world which is a AFRICA

www.ProudlyAfrican.info

Volume 5 • 2013 DIPLOMAT AFRICA

OHADA: Celebrating 20 Years In 2013 AFCCA: Connects Intra-African Construction

marketing and business platform geared towards showcasing and harmonising Africa’s development, trade and cultural diversity to a global audience.

BOTSWANA: Beyond Vision 2016 AFRICA WANTS: TRADE not AID

This is where the BEST OF AFRICA in business, government and non-

Volume 5 • 2013 • www.ProudlyAfrican.info

profit organisations unite, promoting their vision and best practice in order to find the right customers, partnerships and joint ventures. PROMOTING ECONOMIC GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH LEADERSHIP, DIPLOMACY AND TRADE

View all books online, more than 4 million readers worldwide 164

Best of Uganda

LEADERSHIP

VOLUME 2

TANZANIA

SHARING KNOWLEDGE, VISION & INSPIRATION

www.ProudlyAfrican.info

BASHI

GAETSALOE

leaders in aviation

LEADERS IN NATURAL RESOURCES ENERGY, MINING & CONSTRUCTION

“THE DRIVING FORCE BEHIND TANZANIA’S ECONOMIC GROWTH”

africa

DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY AT THE HELM OF BDC

global village .world Connecting minds - building communities

PROUDLY AFRICAN

Boosting Inter-trade & Cultural Relations across the continent

www.ProudlyAfrican.info

The initiative has an unstoppable magnetic presence with its ever growing country and sectoral window already in over 25 African states. We invite all leaders in business and government across Africa to showcase and integrate their visions and activities so as to promote inter-Africa trade, investment and skills transfer from around the globe.

We are an ever growing tribe of media entrepreneurs, colleagues and friends that publish the “Best of” the World and “Leaders” in Industry series of books both in print and online. In today’s worldwide market, every country, city and region must compete with others for a share of the world’s skilled work force, top entrepreneurs, tourists, exports, and investors. Please join us in promoting your country as we make the Globe our Village. Email: info@globalvillage.world | GVPEDIA COMMUNICATIONS: gia@gvpedia.com

All books now available for download on your iPad with the new VIPedia app.

Best of Uganda

165

BEST OF THE WORLD Our mission is to proudly showcase the ‘Best of’ every Nation, their Cities and its People to the World

All books now available for download on your iPad with the new VIPedia app.

We are an ever growing tribe of media entrepreneurs, colleagues and friends that publish the Best of the World and Leaders in Industry series of books both in print and online.In today’s worldwide market, every country, city and region must compete with others for a share of the world’s skilled work force, top entrepreneurs, tourists, exports, and investors.

Brand Image

Branding a Nation, a City and its People GVP brands and builds the image of the world’s most exciting economic regions to affect a change in the perception of a nation, a city and its people by the rest of the world. This then promotes the region in terms of its investment opportunities, key industries, innovations, people, culture, tourism potential and international objectives.

Product - The Books Celebrate your success

The ‘Best of…’ publishing series produces annual maxi format book publications in over 50 territories, from Bangalore to Belgium. These detail success stories of people and companies making positive inroads into the commercial fibre of both mature and emerging markets. The books showcase entrepreneurial spirit; establishing powerful global networks and the creation of individual brand awareness by bridging cultures. The result is the ultimate interactive corporate gift and P.R. marketing tool for governments, companies, hotels and business people providing leading products and services for their region. Please join us in promoting your country as we make the Globe our Village, info@globalvillage.world.

Participators Index Bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lodge..................................................................................................................................142 Bell Lager.........................................................................................................................................160 Buhoma Lodge.................................................................................................................................143 Capital Markets Authority (CMA)........................................................................................................74 Chobe Safari Lodge.........................................................................................................................146 Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)...........................................................................................................130 Dining & Nightlife Venue Listing.......................................................................................................152 Exclusive Camps & Lodges..............................................................................................................140 Global Village World............................................................................................................. IFC, 7, 166 Ishasha Wilderness Camp................................................................................................................141 Jinja Sailing Club..............................................................................................................................156 Kampala Serena Hotel......................................................................................................................136 Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa...........................................................................................138 Lavender Blinds................................................................................................................................IBC MARASA Africa........................................................................................................................144, 156 Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development........................... IFC, 44, 54, 68, 86, OBC Mweya Safari Lodge.........................................................................................................................148 Paraa Safari Lodge...........................................................................................................................149 Proudly African..................................................................................................................... IFC, 7, 164 Public Private Partnerships Unit (PPPU)............................................................................................68 Sheraton Kampala Hotel..................................................................................................................134 Silverback Lodge..............................................................................................................................147 Uganda Breweries....................................................................................................................158, 160 Uganda Development Bank Limited (UDBL)......................................................................................78 Uganda Investment Authority (UIA)..............................................................................................56, 60 Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC).............................................................................................86 Uganda Tourism Board (UTB)...........................................................................................................118 Uganda Vision 2040 ..........................................................................................................................22 Uganda Waragi.................................................................................................................................158 Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)........................................................................................................94

170

Best of Uganda

Inspired by the beautiful Lavender, Lavender Blinds was established in 2011 to manufacture and install blinds of the highest quality at competitive prices. Over the years Lavender Blinds has grown into Ugandaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading supplier, manufacturer and installer of blinds offering customers a friendly and professional service. Operating from a modern manufacturing unit and showroom, we display a complete range of blinds to suit every taste and need. We are backed by leading suppliers of major components thereby enabling us to source the best with the widest choice of fabrics and materials available. Our entire range of blinds is on offer and we have been privileged to transform homes, offices, schools, hotels and lodges and many living spaces with our award winning blinds; with components that have a 5 year guarantee.

Ground Floor, Metroplex Mall Naalya, Kampala | Tel: +256 414 240663 | Mob: +256 750 919180 | +256 701 919180 Email: customercare@lavenderblinds.com | www.lavenderblinds.com

Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Uganda