It all started in Naguru hill "Mutte Hill" where we discussed and concluded the plans to visit Patiko to Celebrate the life of Mama - Everina. For me it was one visit for three occasions, it was going to be only the second time that I get to see Gulu but also celebrate the life of Everina (mother of Santa) our grand mother as well as pay respects to the mother of the Lawoko's it was indeed a trip to remember.....
We left for Gulu some cool afternoon, driving out quietly through Wandegeya, then past Bwaise and finally past Kawanda, this is the point at which you realize the journey has started. Before that, it is traffic, taxi's stopping every other ten meters and noisy "boda boda's" fighting to prove that they also have a right to the narrow, pealing and slimming road.... Driving on Bombo road after Kawanda is so nice the road is good, new and wide enough, the highway is open - so we set our music to the tunes of the Northern & West Nile connections - local music from Luo and Lugbara land as we waited for the sun to cool off - myself and Joachim - started dreaming about the Tuskers under the back seat we were headed to celebrate the lives of Women........
Knowing our ideas for the trip Ziki and Josephine (big sisters) would from time to time call pretending to find out how were doing, but they were actually monitoring our progress towards Gulu thinking that we might just take a left turn to the park - he he we knew what they were up to, we just kept them happy. Allan kept the speed at a steady 100 as we passed the thick treas and the land opened more and more to the sparse drier tries towards Kafu. Stopping by Migera, we discovered that it was going to be a bigger group Hon. K and his team were taking a break too and of course Cousins Ziki & Jose were carefully watching to see if we had started on our clever pints he he he not yet.........
When one is on the Gulu highway its very important to stop by Kafu bridge shopping center where some of the best "Ghost" meat is found, a delicacy of this meat together with ivory white cassava is so refreshing and so filling that one has to make sure they take at least a liter of water. If one has an unstable tummy they need to carry some desserts- hmn you know what I mean.
We were eating this spiced dish all they way to Karuma... as one draws closer to Karuma the trees get thicker and darker once more. The site in Karuma is breath taking emergying from a thicket is this massive water flowing Violently over the rocks as if to say give me way, we got there in the evening, at this time the sun coloring the water brown and orange is much cooler and kinder to the pint hungry, silently one gets to listen to the water running down the stream with little songs from the wild birds drawing circles and arrows in the air.
Just past the bridge were the monkeys seated on the road side watching as cars pass by and telling each other tales of the monkey history I guess. Looking at human being they muse and wonder what these creatures have made and now killing our beautiful land with their machines and new air that God had not made. It was time to pop the Tuskers, hmmnn they were still ice cold and "yaix" the green bottle looks cute. Allan had limited access due to the nature of his task....
We drove quietly past kamdini corner, Minakulu..... then arriving in Gulu we saw a giant town vibrant with activity it was about 9:00pm, and what!! Well JJ, Jerry & Hkiz were right there so feeling at home that I felt the adrenaline calling on me to join them right away, we got places to stay and I immediately joined them. We made a small visit to The Pub and retired early. However about 100 meters away from us was a bar that closed the road by midnight people were having fun and sometimes extending it close to us, we were at Roma and this famous place is called Green Valley.
Gulu is probably as big as Mbale and may have been much bigger had it had a steady growth. We settled in early, the D day was yet to come!
Raising early apprehensive and yet excited about the prospect of finally making it to Patiko, we got ready to have some starters. Having breakfast on the veranda of the hotel, we see people moving with purpose, quite serious going about their business and I wonder why its some times assumed that these so very polite people are considered rude in some societies.
I look deeper and I see pain in some of them pain of wasted time! Time wasted by some one else, time taken away from them forcefully by someone else, time they could have used to fulfill their potential, time they could have used to share with their loved ones.... Time wasted in a war they too did not understand, some continue paying for the sins of others.... I wondered how rude can the world get! Our mothers see it, they see us and the pray and cry so that we may live a meaning full life..
Well its the crude world of conflicting interests, different societies and sometimes greedy one's too, its the world we grow in.... We prepare for the trip to the first place we are told the function is a three part/three day function. Day 1, prayers, Day 2, Celebrations, Day 3 exchange of pleasantries and gifts, I wonder will we celebrate for all these days, lets see...
Ready to go we drive out of town via Santa Monica - I remember we were there and that is where we started our peace match with youth from all over Uganda, I remember Ernst, Talia, Marion, the Speech from Chairman - that time we walked all for a one world. We drove on towards custom corner and out further turning off finally towards Negri, for the first time I see where Ezaga went to junior school, a very quiet place on vast acres of land, this was a very powerful Catholic boarding primary school, we drive further and we are finally in Patiko.
I think it is called Patiko Pabo.... Reaching the homestead, there was a big set up of tents in a place about the size of four football fields, each tent belonged to a group, a clan or a tribe from a different place! We prayed for half of the Afternoon sitting next to Cousin Monica a no-nonsense Christian! I learn every day from her, very many things about life and she is very inspiring..
If you eat little and no meat you would not enjoy being at the table with us, there was all sorts of dishes ranging from all the meats in different forms fresh, dry to vegetables and stews made with peanut butter and local bread and sweet P & irish P and well it was time to feast and feast hmmnn, I liked most the dry fish in vegetables and white peas in peanut source with "moya" and local bread, this dish can only be eaten with hands......
We had too much to eat...... he he you may note that I do not even remember what happened the rest of the afternoon, guess I was digesting food. Returning quietly to town in the night we are greeted by the bustling activity in town, this night we decided to explore the green valley, this is one hell of a happening place people virtually sealing off the road and extending across to the other side men, women all having fun, the down side though was this place seemed to have minimal regulation otherwise it was loud beats beats and beats and all the things that come with the beats...
Anyway was not keen on too much activity I withdrew to my room to read "The Power of Focus" very nice writings in that book..
The next day was day 2 of our celebrations, reluctantly driving back to Patiko, we anyways sat down to chat about the stories of the previous night, sitting next to Big Uncle of Mutte Hill we laughed at his Jokes from the village to town and beyond, as Leo kept prompting him, Peter just sat there laughing at me, I was pre-occupied with testing the local brew "Qwete". Finally I landed on little cousin Jovine and she agreed to arrange one......
Looking up from our tent, I saw this beautiful, tall lady walking towards me, I was dumbfounded, I could not look else where I forgot the people in the tent, they sounded like voices very far a way..... I was looking, in a state of astonishment and perplexity she stood there and gave me this drink that I had long forgotten about. I think it was even tastier than I had expected! Hmmmnn They all caught me, right from Big Uncle to Brothers in Law, to kid sisters and all. I just said to them God found out that Man was lonely and he made Woman.
Leaving Patiko for Custom Corner, we had to pay our respects to the Lawoko's little did we know, we had to have lunch again!!!!!! Winnie, Doreen, Cathe the usual suspects made sure they staffed us all with more food. Custom corner is a famous junction where roads leading to Paraa, Packwach and Sudan split close to this place is a very big homestead right from the top of the hill slopping in one direction to the road and in the other to a school. Homes have been beautifully built with out distorting the nature, there is a natural shade created by the tree cover in the compound one gets to relax and forget the burning heat above the trees. This is the home to my friends, who have only recently been able to access this lovely paradise after so many years of unrest in the area.
Andrew, Peter & their Southern friends were so full that when they retired to Boma most of them retired early... We had a short catch up though at that magnificent hotel, it was a nice and classy looking place, I am happy Ugandans have started appreciating the power of good architecture...
This night I was determined to explore the night, I found my self at BJ's very nice place, good bbq, good music, good people - I missed Mr. Ogik, wondered where he could have been.... The bar is manned by two good looking ladies, though quite polite they are very firm when it comes to dealing with errand customers. I watched as my cousins danced away the evening.... As Jeremiah showed skills in making new friends Aaron showed skills in snubbing wanna be friends...
Now I don't know why but return trips are not that memorable, it feels like unwinding, like back to work and reality, so I guess you understand why I have nothing much to say on the way back. Gulu a great place. I write this in Memory of all our Mothers those who have returned to the creator and those still with us. Mr. Dell, Mrs. Lugalambi, Ms. Mugyeni, Mr. Okello and all have a wonderful womens day....
Monday, March 8, 2010
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
If this dream could come true!
I recently had a very brief chat with Chairman Mao in Gulu and what strikes me about this Gentleman is that he is so unassuming of any circumstance... He is not preoccupied with prejudices and he just is an example of people who have learned that life is larger than self.... I am sure if you have read some of my earlier notes you know what I mean!
Listening to him talk again on TV was a reminder of this Great man from Gulu, I thereafter listened to M. G. Muntu and was totally amazed at the caliber of his intelligence, I think this Gentleman is too Intelligent for this part of the world, like some one rightfully commented he may be a few generations ahead of us!
I dream that these two men discover each other and make a new party, a party that is larger than self, a party that will bring the likes of me back to the football field. I wouldn't mind which one of them carried the flag for as long as they teamed up! My bias would be though that Chairman Mao takes the first round then retires as party Chairman and M.G. Muntu takes the second round and joins in retirement and all remain advisors to the new flag bearer! Wow this would make African change in less than a decade in the eyes of the world.
I think even our Dear M7 would for once be comfortable to hand over to a new leader knowing that he has done well for leaders have emerged .... This is my dream
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| Mao talking to youth in Gulu |
I dream that these two men discover each other and make a new party, a party that is larger than self, a party that will bring the likes of me back to the football field. I wouldn't mind which one of them carried the flag for as long as they teamed up! My bias would be though that Chairman Mao takes the first round then retires as party Chairman and M.G. Muntu takes the second round and joins in retirement and all remain advisors to the new flag bearer! Wow this would make African change in less than a decade in the eyes of the world.
I think even our Dear M7 would for once be comfortable to hand over to a new leader knowing that he has done well for leaders have emerged .... This is my dream
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Its dawning on you the year has ended, did you achieve, where did you fail, what have you learned, its now your nth year on planet earth and still dreaming? Or have you achieved some!
Well this year we read, worked, shaped up our skills but also blamed, rumored, accused and let go of very fundamental values and yet many remained in the rat race? Guess some in the cat race? Turn the pages some bought new cars, houses started a romance of a life time and the road still seems long! I would like to draw your attention to my interests for you in the years to come Wisdom, Wealth, Health, Travel & Romance.
May you reflect on the value of wisdom to so as to work towards your dreams well knowing what ingredients to put into the game to up it, I will be reflecting on how to build lasting mutually beneficial business and personal relationships. I will be reading a bit more about how to influence and lead people to success but also on how to win over the best kinds of friends.
Wisdom is wealth my brothers and sisters, white, oriental or black.........
May you reflect on the value of wealth, the wealth that includes wisdom, financial freedom, fullness, fulfillment etc, the wealth that allows you promote your values and not shy away from society. How do we get this wealth, reflect, do you deprive another of a meal or shelter in the name of self aggrandizement or do you work with them to make wealth, reflect my brother, reflect my sister!! May you FOCUS and gain a good value driven approach towards achieving your dreams.
May you reflect on the body you reside in and come clean with your God, do you value it for it is the one that toils to store your wisdom as you build your wealth. Health is key reflect on how to make your body breath fresh air, eat fresh food and function well like one big factory with all parts functioning normally. Join a routine physical activity run, ride, climb mountains, swim, dance and reduce on toxins you know them things.... Health is the key to Wealth & Wisdom
Go go go see places, sites, scenery, cities and all for they help your innovative part of the brain, travel feeds the mind with ideas, dreams are kept alive and motivation is at 100 a nice number right? Wisdom facilitates innovation for wealth in a healthy body..... Marvel at God's creation, architecture new and old, see the wild life where man and animal realize that they are the same sharing creation none of them can comprehend....... A new world requires innovation
Hmmnnn this is it romance is the most rewarding part of life eventually you must enjoy your attractions, love and desires for they nourish your mind, soul and body.....
MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR
Romance is the epitome of wisdom, wealth, health & travel, some believe they can live with out romance, they miss lot-sa good stuff.....
Well this year we read, worked, shaped up our skills but also blamed, rumored, accused and let go of very fundamental values and yet many remained in the rat race? Guess some in the cat race? Turn the pages some bought new cars, houses started a romance of a life time and the road still seems long! I would like to draw your attention to my interests for you in the years to come Wisdom, Wealth, Health, Travel & Romance.
May you reflect on the value of wisdom to so as to work towards your dreams well knowing what ingredients to put into the game to up it, I will be reflecting on how to build lasting mutually beneficial business and personal relationships. I will be reading a bit more about how to influence and lead people to success but also on how to win over the best kinds of friends.
Wisdom is wealth my brothers and sisters, white, oriental or black.........
May you reflect on the value of wealth, the wealth that includes wisdom, financial freedom, fullness, fulfillment etc, the wealth that allows you promote your values and not shy away from society. How do we get this wealth, reflect, do you deprive another of a meal or shelter in the name of self aggrandizement or do you work with them to make wealth, reflect my brother, reflect my sister!! May you FOCUS and gain a good value driven approach towards achieving your dreams.
May you reflect on the body you reside in and come clean with your God, do you value it for it is the one that toils to store your wisdom as you build your wealth. Health is key reflect on how to make your body breath fresh air, eat fresh food and function well like one big factory with all parts functioning normally. Join a routine physical activity run, ride, climb mountains, swim, dance and reduce on toxins you know them things.... Health is the key to Wealth & Wisdom
Go go go see places, sites, scenery, cities and all for they help your innovative part of the brain, travel feeds the mind with ideas, dreams are kept alive and motivation is at 100 a nice number right? Wisdom facilitates innovation for wealth in a healthy body..... Marvel at God's creation, architecture new and old, see the wild life where man and animal realize that they are the same sharing creation none of them can comprehend....... A new world requires innovation
Hmmnnn this is it romance is the most rewarding part of life eventually you must enjoy your attractions, love and desires for they nourish your mind, soul and body.....
MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR
Romance is the epitome of wisdom, wealth, health & travel, some believe they can live with out romance, they miss lot-sa good stuff.....
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Okay one day it will be love!
Okay one day it will be love!
Guess I will one day, not so far away, I know I am about to see what I am looking for! Love, I waited so long, I told my self not to give in to temptations and take what I have because it is here! Well - I waited this long, so I better go for the last waiting mile for the waiting will soon end - I will wake up and find love there and I will know that its here – that one day!
The love of my life, I will tell as always that it has come and it will not be about time, age, social beliefs or societal perceptions but it will be about me and love of eternity............
I believe in God I see his power leading me – the invisible force working through us sometimes called instinct or the six sense, sometimes called miracles - and that power will show me what I have been waiting for that treasure that lives in the heart of mankind - I will not use power chains and premeditated plans to create and forge love! The world is free and we are the birds that enjoy it! A nasty world some times uncaring or selfish..... but it is our world - sometimes loving and understanding and still it is our world!
.... I will not be tempted by the chain - the chain of force, premeditated love a false emotion created by repeated thoughts in the brain of man! The chain will rust and break to miserable pieces eventually - I will not direct or guide or plan I will wait..... for I do not intend to use the breakable chain...
Either way I am part of the world and will do things as I deem pleasing..... I will continue on my path..... make the contributions that I want to make........ I will not let this unending quest for life's' answers tie me to a tree!!!!!
Inspired by; “My thoughts of love and what it should feel like after reading St. Peter"
Guess I will one day, not so far away, I know I am about to see what I am looking for! Love, I waited so long, I told my self not to give in to temptations and take what I have because it is here! Well - I waited this long, so I better go for the last waiting mile for the waiting will soon end - I will wake up and find love there and I will know that its here – that one day!
The love of my life, I will tell as always that it has come and it will not be about time, age, social beliefs or societal perceptions but it will be about me and love of eternity............
I believe in God I see his power leading me – the invisible force working through us sometimes called instinct or the six sense, sometimes called miracles - and that power will show me what I have been waiting for that treasure that lives in the heart of mankind - I will not use power chains and premeditated plans to create and forge love! The world is free and we are the birds that enjoy it! A nasty world some times uncaring or selfish..... but it is our world - sometimes loving and understanding and still it is our world!
.... I will not be tempted by the chain - the chain of force, premeditated love a false emotion created by repeated thoughts in the brain of man! The chain will rust and break to miserable pieces eventually - I will not direct or guide or plan I will wait..... for I do not intend to use the breakable chain...
Either way I am part of the world and will do things as I deem pleasing..... I will continue on my path..... make the contributions that I want to make........ I will not let this unending quest for life's' answers tie me to a tree!!!!!
Inspired by; “My thoughts of love and what it should feel like after reading St. Peter"
Thursday, October 15, 2009
To Ma Man Phil (Romeo) & Julie
Its an early afternoon, this day I have had a very exciting day making a big deal happen for my company - I decide let business be for now and take me to a green somewhere and learn more about the American President, as I read through world news on my laptop at the rugby club, thanks to UTL's hotspot, busing myself with the hopes of becoming somebody one sweet day! I begin to feel the presence of some one around me and I raise my head to see Phil and immediately ask him "Boss you are here early wats up?" Phil says "Boss - in fact it is good to see you, you know I am getting married?" I say wow "But I have never seen you with a bird!", Phil Says "Boss are you living in Kampala?" Anyway we start to talk about planning his wedding.
We all agree that the historical chairman would be the best man to lead us through this big venture and Big Brother (I mean the Ugandan one) was to be asked later that day to "hola" the historical chairman who agreed after acknowledging how much time he would be spending away from his dear newly wed wife (as if that was not enough - with a newly born child)! Starting with small meetings at Kati Kati, it was very interesting to see how Phil's guys mobilized themselves for the mighty wedding, meanwhile Phil (Romeo) is actually a very humerous fellow, wondering why all the fuss about this big day. Suddenly the wedding preparations kicked into full gear - at a certain point Phil was asked to let the ladies take over costing the decoration services and making vital decisions in that area with out his input, you could see that he (Phil) was beginning to appreciate the fuss....... The team further demanded openness and the presence of Julie in the meetings.... Phil wondered what a nightmare he was getting into.....
A few weeks later the fund raising started, Phil & Julie have definitely lived well, friends from all walks of life poured into the meetings, others sent resources from the furthest continents - the team of organizers was getting pleased each and every day seeing that this was going to be a wedding of abundance... Phil made more friends from Julie's side and Julie made more friends from Phil's side - they saw the wedding in their imaginations a nice day, a day when they would tell the world how much they love each other a day they would look at the stars as one :-). I remember once sitting with the treasurer as I was standing in for the historical chairman, he was smiling at the game of fund-raising, money was flying in like lives from the autumn tree...
One fine Thursday as I sit at The Zone contemplating what I was going to do for my friend JJ, Peter calls and declares to me that we shall be going to a place called Bunamwaya the next day, I ask him "what are we gona do there Boss", he says "Boss do you live in Kampala", I say well I guess so, he says again "Boss be serious we are going to pick a wife!" Well well come Friday, a nice shiny day, we congregate at Peter's Dads house and plan the motorcade to Bunamway, believe me this was one I will remember for a long time. I was very shy to drive my car (a used Japanese....) to bunamwaya, this was good because it paid off eventually getting me to sit much closer to the escort pickup that kept blaring sirens when ever there was traffic slowing us down - I was ecstatic being amongst the VIP's who made part of our delegation!
Being a man of cultural understanding - I was happy to see Phil & Julie united all the way from the land of the wise men past the land of milk and honey to the land of lakes, sites, scenery, potatoes, natural habitat and beauty - pleasantries were exchanged, food was served and drinks were flowing like the Nile and yet Julie was still kept away from the team. We began to get anxious and like they had read our minds she was handed over from parent to parent in the traditional African manner & human sirens went off in excitement - We had acquired a wife.
The week that followed run so fast that I did not realize the long awaited day had come - again a gentleman bellowed from the other side of the line advising me to sleep early because I had been assigned to pick up the bride in the early hours of the morning! WHAT!! Well what could I do I told him I was honored to carry out the assignment and as I prepared to sleep another gentleman bellowed from the other side saying he was to come with me....... Interestingly these happened to be the historical & Peter. Well I slept late but still woke up early and picked up Peter for the journey to collect our dearest.
When we arrived, it was such a warm welcome, our names were taken to be recorded in the books of history. Tea was served and Mclean kept us laughing, all the time. Julie's Dad reminded us to give Julie something to eat before church knowing that it was going to be along day, and wow that is when it downed on me that Dad was going to miss his only daughter so much! Of course she reassured him that she would return to visit from time to time. It was going to be different for ever! We drove through the traffic laughing like crazy when Julie joined in to add "soup" to Mcleans jokes. We were both very awake by this time, as we got to the salon's where the ladies would style their hair for the day.... I thought I would take this moment to get a two hour nap, but alas we realized Nina had to come to the salon too, then the boys had to do their hair too, I suddenly wanted mine done too - it was time for church already and the clock just kept on ticking....
The day running so fast I wished I could climb up to the sun and the solar system and slow it down for a bit but hey the clock just kept on ticking..... Nice Mercs parked and waited and then the entourage entered the church welcomed by a very excited choir as Joshua made every one comfortable in church we prayed for happiness, wisdom, wealth, love, good weather, leadership, understanding, harmony and many many many things.. We prayed for children and grandchildren and generations to come. Yes Phi (Romeo) & Julie became husband and wife. Off to the lake side we went....
People came from the East, North, South, Central & West, from all places that God's creation exists and the hall was filled with smart people of all colors, creed, sizes again food, drink, music & all filled the air. And when Katumwa did the Jazz every one was merry making, speeches were made and the day was getting deeper into celebration, then Phil talked I remember he said thank you to some one and then thank you to another one and again thank you to the other guy and and and ....... and he asked his wife to humour us wow it was a nice one..... She says "I get this call from a guy and he is asking for some one but when he discovers he is talking to her he looks over the partitioning and sees a good thing - next he is at her desk and asks her whether she can cock and many other direct questions - she says - she tells her friends the chap is marriage material and the rest was history" (Quote is not completely accurate though)..
They then opened the dance, didn't have to change, and the party started we all joined in the everlasting dance young, old and all, after midnight a tighter formation of dancers took to the floor till later dancing to songs like moonie moonie moons etc... A small stint of bafudde dancing to silence in the car park with Big Brother, Chichi, Adamski, Peter, Phi & some stray chaps ......... it was a great night to remember we toasted to Mickey's & Breathalyzers too.
We stayed up till past 4:00am ...... and the day came to pass and going one going two and gone it went to the book of history....
Congratulations Phillip - Romeo & Juliet - Juliet!!!!
We all agree that the historical chairman would be the best man to lead us through this big venture and Big Brother (I mean the Ugandan one) was to be asked later that day to "hola" the historical chairman who agreed after acknowledging how much time he would be spending away from his dear newly wed wife (as if that was not enough - with a newly born child)! Starting with small meetings at Kati Kati, it was very interesting to see how Phil's guys mobilized themselves for the mighty wedding, meanwhile Phil (Romeo) is actually a very humerous fellow, wondering why all the fuss about this big day. Suddenly the wedding preparations kicked into full gear - at a certain point Phil was asked to let the ladies take over costing the decoration services and making vital decisions in that area with out his input, you could see that he (Phil) was beginning to appreciate the fuss....... The team further demanded openness and the presence of Julie in the meetings.... Phil wondered what a nightmare he was getting into.....
A few weeks later the fund raising started, Phil & Julie have definitely lived well, friends from all walks of life poured into the meetings, others sent resources from the furthest continents - the team of organizers was getting pleased each and every day seeing that this was going to be a wedding of abundance... Phil made more friends from Julie's side and Julie made more friends from Phil's side - they saw the wedding in their imaginations a nice day, a day when they would tell the world how much they love each other a day they would look at the stars as one :-). I remember once sitting with the treasurer as I was standing in for the historical chairman, he was smiling at the game of fund-raising, money was flying in like lives from the autumn tree...
One fine Thursday as I sit at The Zone contemplating what I was going to do for my friend JJ, Peter calls and declares to me that we shall be going to a place called Bunamwaya the next day, I ask him "what are we gona do there Boss", he says "Boss do you live in Kampala", I say well I guess so, he says again "Boss be serious we are going to pick a wife!" Well well come Friday, a nice shiny day, we congregate at Peter's Dads house and plan the motorcade to Bunamway, believe me this was one I will remember for a long time. I was very shy to drive my car (a used Japanese....) to bunamwaya, this was good because it paid off eventually getting me to sit much closer to the escort pickup that kept blaring sirens when ever there was traffic slowing us down - I was ecstatic being amongst the VIP's who made part of our delegation!
Being a man of cultural understanding - I was happy to see Phil & Julie united all the way from the land of the wise men past the land of milk and honey to the land of lakes, sites, scenery, potatoes, natural habitat and beauty - pleasantries were exchanged, food was served and drinks were flowing like the Nile and yet Julie was still kept away from the team. We began to get anxious and like they had read our minds she was handed over from parent to parent in the traditional African manner & human sirens went off in excitement - We had acquired a wife.
The week that followed run so fast that I did not realize the long awaited day had come - again a gentleman bellowed from the other side of the line advising me to sleep early because I had been assigned to pick up the bride in the early hours of the morning! WHAT!! Well what could I do I told him I was honored to carry out the assignment and as I prepared to sleep another gentleman bellowed from the other side saying he was to come with me....... Interestingly these happened to be the historical & Peter. Well I slept late but still woke up early and picked up Peter for the journey to collect our dearest.
When we arrived, it was such a warm welcome, our names were taken to be recorded in the books of history. Tea was served and Mclean kept us laughing, all the time. Julie's Dad reminded us to give Julie something to eat before church knowing that it was going to be along day, and wow that is when it downed on me that Dad was going to miss his only daughter so much! Of course she reassured him that she would return to visit from time to time. It was going to be different for ever! We drove through the traffic laughing like crazy when Julie joined in to add "soup" to Mcleans jokes. We were both very awake by this time, as we got to the salon's where the ladies would style their hair for the day.... I thought I would take this moment to get a two hour nap, but alas we realized Nina had to come to the salon too, then the boys had to do their hair too, I suddenly wanted mine done too - it was time for church already and the clock just kept on ticking....
The day running so fast I wished I could climb up to the sun and the solar system and slow it down for a bit but hey the clock just kept on ticking..... Nice Mercs parked and waited and then the entourage entered the church welcomed by a very excited choir as Joshua made every one comfortable in church we prayed for happiness, wisdom, wealth, love, good weather, leadership, understanding, harmony and many many many things.. We prayed for children and grandchildren and generations to come. Yes Phi (Romeo) & Julie became husband and wife. Off to the lake side we went....
People came from the East, North, South, Central & West, from all places that God's creation exists and the hall was filled with smart people of all colors, creed, sizes again food, drink, music & all filled the air. And when Katumwa did the Jazz every one was merry making, speeches were made and the day was getting deeper into celebration, then Phil talked I remember he said thank you to some one and then thank you to another one and again thank you to the other guy and and and ....... and he asked his wife to humour us wow it was a nice one..... She says "I get this call from a guy and he is asking for some one but when he discovers he is talking to her he looks over the partitioning and sees a good thing - next he is at her desk and asks her whether she can cock and many other direct questions - she says - she tells her friends the chap is marriage material and the rest was history" (Quote is not completely accurate though)..
They then opened the dance, didn't have to change, and the party started we all joined in the everlasting dance young, old and all, after midnight a tighter formation of dancers took to the floor till later dancing to songs like moonie moonie moons etc... A small stint of bafudde dancing to silence in the car park with Big Brother, Chichi, Adamski, Peter, Phi & some stray chaps ......... it was a great night to remember we toasted to Mickey's & Breathalyzers too.
We stayed up till past 4:00am ...... and the day came to pass and going one going two and gone it went to the book of history....
Congratulations Phillip - Romeo & Juliet - Juliet!!!!
Monday, September 7, 2009
The Blame Game
First of all to all the August Babies it is indeed great as we by pass yet another month of August! Today was one of those days when I was really idle and reading all the bad things about Uganda, All the failed projects, the unbalanced thinking of the different ethnic groups and all the sad things that always shine in the International media as news about Africa
Once again they were at it M7, Dr. B, Dr. O etc and I was thinking, so what is it that these men have .... at least they dream and try like Obote did ( he did his part - a great part not many can be proud of...), how about you, why stand on the fence and talk and talk...... just like you do when watching that match... Funny you even associate with a team to the extend of saying "We"!! Yaix, anyway that for another day.
Some interesting events keep on coming ....
. ........... a nurse delivering a baby using a kavera while the top guys debate about the next luxury 4WD to procure, schools falling apart with old text books and rotten desks as the "wealthy" fly out to get schools for their children!
.......... no food in the East, North & West-Nile as the politicians debate who will stand for president in the opposition.
It downed on me that something something is really wrong with us African's very wrong indeed, how can we blame the other guy when we need kitu kidogo to be able to help another, how can we say a thing about the other when we too are practicing bribery in parking lots, in queue's, in tenders, land deals etc..
We say the police are corrupt yet when they get us we are the first to tempt them with 50k, I mean for goodness sake you know the man's salary? We issue contracts to those who give us a kick back to buy that expensive car - next you have an accident and you wonder why the roads are not fixed, you get to the hospital and you wonder why the drugs have not been supplied to the hospital - only to be poured away because they have expired!
It all started with you and you didn't care and now you have a limp because all the experts left the country! You play the blame game, you think they are the ones messing up the country and you are just an observer.......... Wake up African wake up!!!
Now I see this negative talk is not taking me anywhere so this weekend I start a new ----- remember August Men & Women (Guy & T thanks for that marvelous Zone idea), we are what .......... lets roll the dice and stop lamenting, stop observing and continue doing...
Have a nice weekend, lets stop the blame game, lets look for a true unity of Ugandan's & Africa and gain respect as part of the bigger world, if we each started to associate with truth, earned income, high quality works and a desire to become part of history even before you exit! Stop stop stop success is knocking at the door....
Once again they were at it M7, Dr. B, Dr. O etc and I was thinking, so what is it that these men have .... at least they dream and try like Obote did ( he did his part - a great part not many can be proud of...), how about you, why stand on the fence and talk and talk...... just like you do when watching that match... Funny you even associate with a team to the extend of saying "We"!! Yaix, anyway that for another day.
Some interesting events keep on coming ....
. ........... a nurse delivering a baby using a kavera while the top guys debate about the next luxury 4WD to procure, schools falling apart with old text books and rotten desks as the "wealthy" fly out to get schools for their children!
.......... no food in the East, North & West-Nile as the politicians debate who will stand for president in the opposition.
It downed on me that something something is really wrong with us African's very wrong indeed, how can we blame the other guy when we need kitu kidogo to be able to help another, how can we say a thing about the other when we too are practicing bribery in parking lots, in queue's, in tenders, land deals etc..
We say the police are corrupt yet when they get us we are the first to tempt them with 50k, I mean for goodness sake you know the man's salary? We issue contracts to those who give us a kick back to buy that expensive car - next you have an accident and you wonder why the roads are not fixed, you get to the hospital and you wonder why the drugs have not been supplied to the hospital - only to be poured away because they have expired!
It all started with you and you didn't care and now you have a limp because all the experts left the country! You play the blame game, you think they are the ones messing up the country and you are just an observer.......... Wake up African wake up!!!
Now I see this negative talk is not taking me anywhere so this weekend I start a new ----- remember August Men & Women (Guy & T thanks for that marvelous Zone idea), we are what .......... lets roll the dice and stop lamenting, stop observing and continue doing...
Have a nice weekend, lets stop the blame game, lets look for a true unity of Ugandan's & Africa and gain respect as part of the bigger world, if we each started to associate with truth, earned income, high quality works and a desire to become part of history even before you exit! Stop stop stop success is knocking at the door....
Thursday, July 9, 2009
One World
Dar is alive – I think the theory of countries in Africa was poorly implemented.
Being in Dar-Es-Salaam was like being home, the same people pleasant and happy to get acquainted to a new face! We all are the same only misguided by maps and names given (Uganda, Burundi, among others), I noted, suggesting that we are different. Having taken almost ten years before coming here again I was apprehensive and curious to see how much of Tz's busiest city had changed!
A few more buildings, a lot of construction going on too many more people in the city and a lot of trucks leaving the harbor for various destinations around Africa, this time we had come to study the way government, academia and private sector (SME) were working together for economic development. Interestingly my very basic English seemed very advanced, however I admired the way Swahili had united the Tanzanians that it seemed language and ethnic belonging would come secondary to being Tanzanian a very strategic pride that the other E.A. countries cannot be proud of!
“Shicamo – Malahaba” a very interesting form of greeting between juveniles and seasoned elders – talking to elders in the community one realizes that every one has a calling to life beyond self that only if the human race believed in this call may be Africa would be light years a head of where it is today. However the dream to have grand riches with out any significant input to acquiring it supersedes any other dream, this is definitely not wealth. Every one running around to own and drive a “Sangingi” without understanding the least of the technologies used to manufacture it, it is our way, the way of Africans defining themselves as Sudanese or Kenyans without the depth of understanding of how they came to be where they exist.
In our meetings we realized that we too could innovate successfully and collaborate with in ourselves, only if we were more trusting of each other and had genuine concerns for the development of our continent with an attitude of life beyond self. We chose many times to trust the white man for he will also provide the easy to get resources that will get us off the ground into some dream position of “wealth”! In the mean time calling each other names like you Ugandans or you Kenyans, tearing down the only railway line that we have never improved since it was constructed in the name of imaginary differentiations. Venting anger at the wrong person – “Omuyankole”, “Omucholi” - “Jaluo”, “Kikuyu” etc.
This is the nature that we have learned to promote pretending to uphold our heritage! So what if you are an Itesot or Muganda, so what if you are Karamojong or Masai well I guess you know the answer – so what anyway?
Okay back to the niceties the Ocean wow that one I will never get used to it, sitting at Dar alive with my buddies sipping sweet Kilimanjaro beer we talk about politics, money, Africans and remember Dr. Ruks and his emails, we tease Julie about her Shangingi (a legit one though earned through sweat and toil) and we look at the setting sun over the water as the planes come in to land and...... we wait for a better Africa! Ez describes Rwabz life in Tz in just under ten minutes and we think this country is beautiful.
The night quite good too all streets are lit up, actually tried driving without head lamps on and it was easy, thought to my self “even in Africa some countries are sane enough to build wide roads and light them up, I must admit Uganda seems to be the most cursed when it comes to organization of estates and roads”. We got to Savannah and the night even became more exciting seeing the just arrived Del P feeling like the owner of the bar. Hmmmnnn and it was time for the E.A. Music it was very uniting every one danced to the music they liked, just like to boys watch the football team, or tennis player they liked. Then there was MJ's music legend of POP RIP, we had just heard that morning that he was no more in the body.
Interestingly my most exciting moments in another city or town is walking by a nice neighborhood thinking and meditating, this time it is the ocean..... Walking near the water very calm and splashing in small bits on my legs, I begin to think about ideas that will help me contribute to changing the world to a better world, I think of a family that I will make and the wealth that I want to build.... I think about a vision that I have never forgotten “Peace and fulfillment of Mankind's Potential” I think about “tight de la tight” a word I share with only one person on living earth. Dar next time lets do it again.
Being in Dar-Es-Salaam was like being home, the same people pleasant and happy to get acquainted to a new face! We all are the same only misguided by maps and names given (Uganda, Burundi, among others), I noted, suggesting that we are different. Having taken almost ten years before coming here again I was apprehensive and curious to see how much of Tz's busiest city had changed!
A few more buildings, a lot of construction going on too many more people in the city and a lot of trucks leaving the harbor for various destinations around Africa, this time we had come to study the way government, academia and private sector (SME) were working together for economic development. Interestingly my very basic English seemed very advanced, however I admired the way Swahili had united the Tanzanians that it seemed language and ethnic belonging would come secondary to being Tanzanian a very strategic pride that the other E.A. countries cannot be proud of!
“Shicamo – Malahaba” a very interesting form of greeting between juveniles and seasoned elders – talking to elders in the community one realizes that every one has a calling to life beyond self that only if the human race believed in this call may be Africa would be light years a head of where it is today. However the dream to have grand riches with out any significant input to acquiring it supersedes any other dream, this is definitely not wealth. Every one running around to own and drive a “Sangingi” without understanding the least of the technologies used to manufacture it, it is our way, the way of Africans defining themselves as Sudanese or Kenyans without the depth of understanding of how they came to be where they exist.
In our meetings we realized that we too could innovate successfully and collaborate with in ourselves, only if we were more trusting of each other and had genuine concerns for the development of our continent with an attitude of life beyond self. We chose many times to trust the white man for he will also provide the easy to get resources that will get us off the ground into some dream position of “wealth”! In the mean time calling each other names like you Ugandans or you Kenyans, tearing down the only railway line that we have never improved since it was constructed in the name of imaginary differentiations. Venting anger at the wrong person – “Omuyankole”, “Omucholi” - “Jaluo”, “Kikuyu” etc.
This is the nature that we have learned to promote pretending to uphold our heritage! So what if you are an Itesot or Muganda, so what if you are Karamojong or Masai well I guess you know the answer – so what anyway?
Okay back to the niceties the Ocean wow that one I will never get used to it, sitting at Dar alive with my buddies sipping sweet Kilimanjaro beer we talk about politics, money, Africans and remember Dr. Ruks and his emails, we tease Julie about her Shangingi (a legit one though earned through sweat and toil) and we look at the setting sun over the water as the planes come in to land and...... we wait for a better Africa! Ez describes Rwabz life in Tz in just under ten minutes and we think this country is beautiful.
The night quite good too all streets are lit up, actually tried driving without head lamps on and it was easy, thought to my self “even in Africa some countries are sane enough to build wide roads and light them up, I must admit Uganda seems to be the most cursed when it comes to organization of estates and roads”. We got to Savannah and the night even became more exciting seeing the just arrived Del P feeling like the owner of the bar. Hmmmnnn and it was time for the E.A. Music it was very uniting every one danced to the music they liked, just like to boys watch the football team, or tennis player they liked. Then there was MJ's music legend of POP RIP, we had just heard that morning that he was no more in the body.
Interestingly my most exciting moments in another city or town is walking by a nice neighborhood thinking and meditating, this time it is the ocean..... Walking near the water very calm and splashing in small bits on my legs, I begin to think about ideas that will help me contribute to changing the world to a better world, I think of a family that I will make and the wealth that I want to build.... I think about a vision that I have never forgotten “Peace and fulfillment of Mankind's Potential” I think about “tight de la tight” a word I share with only one person on living earth. Dar next time lets do it again.
A big thank you friends
I have been very humbled by the solidarity you showed, the support in all ways encouraging words of wisdom, the story of life, financial support and above all the true unwavering arm of friendship!
This kind of support and realization has made me even more committed to supporting initiatives for human development, where I possibly can, because you have shown me that our Social Security is in the communities in which we grow, the communities that we devote our time to and if a man does wisely this community indeed becomes his security.
I will try and reach everyone but in times like this errors may occur, however I will try not to forget appreciating the organized teams that provided support to me including Uncle Etima’s family (Mr. Etima took me through everything from the early morning of the day of the loss of my Dad and is still keeping tabs on me), Justice Kania & Mr. Adukule, I-Network Uganda, AMREF, St. Joseph’s college ombaci, Ombaci OB’s (You great Ombacians I will not try to name names here!), BCC (saw you at home and the envelope), My dear Neighbors and individuals like Albert Orijabo, Gordon Obitre Gama, Timothy Tibesigwa, Robert Ssentongo, Mark Rwomushana, Raymond Byarugaba, David Mugomba, John Masanda, Joachim Etima, Patrick Onen Ezaga, Ms. Tracy Amoding, Ms. Monalisa Aman, Mrs. Rwomushana, Ms. Gloria Abura, Dr. Mina Ssali, Dr. Worodria, Dr. Nagimesi, Dr. Monica Etima, all of you who were there at police officers mess, DMO’s and Arua & Omugo who I had to single out for outstanding involvement the life and send off of my Dad.
Later this year I will invite you to celebrate the life of my late Dad & Mum. Briefly my father had four children me being the first and was educated in the field of Agriculture with a Bachelors, Masters and many special skills in Animal husbandry and Farm Development he worked at the Ministry of Agriculture, Lint Marketing Board, Kawanda Research Station and Makerere University and retired at the level of assistant commissioner. He was widely travelled and was married to my late mum who was also in the same ministry.
Once again thank you so so much may God Bless you all.
Kind regards
This kind of support and realization has made me even more committed to supporting initiatives for human development, where I possibly can, because you have shown me that our Social Security is in the communities in which we grow, the communities that we devote our time to and if a man does wisely this community indeed becomes his security.
I will try and reach everyone but in times like this errors may occur, however I will try not to forget appreciating the organized teams that provided support to me including Uncle Etima’s family (Mr. Etima took me through everything from the early morning of the day of the loss of my Dad and is still keeping tabs on me), Justice Kania & Mr. Adukule, I-Network Uganda, AMREF, St. Joseph’s college ombaci, Ombaci OB’s (You great Ombacians I will not try to name names here!), BCC (saw you at home and the envelope), My dear Neighbors and individuals like Albert Orijabo, Gordon Obitre Gama, Timothy Tibesigwa, Robert Ssentongo, Mark Rwomushana, Raymond Byarugaba, David Mugomba, John Masanda, Joachim Etima, Patrick Onen Ezaga, Ms. Tracy Amoding, Ms. Monalisa Aman, Mrs. Rwomushana, Ms. Gloria Abura, Dr. Mina Ssali, Dr. Worodria, Dr. Nagimesi, Dr. Monica Etima, all of you who were there at police officers mess, DMO’s and Arua & Omugo who I had to single out for outstanding involvement the life and send off of my Dad.
Later this year I will invite you to celebrate the life of my late Dad & Mum. Briefly my father had four children me being the first and was educated in the field of Agriculture with a Bachelors, Masters and many special skills in Animal husbandry and Farm Development he worked at the Ministry of Agriculture, Lint Marketing Board, Kawanda Research Station and Makerere University and retired at the level of assistant commissioner. He was widely travelled and was married to my late mum who was also in the same ministry.
Once again thank you so so much may God Bless you all.
Kind regards
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Mountains of the moon
Its getting late the sun is setting and the fears of the night start to linger in one's mind a new town, a new people what should one expect!! We are riding in a rented bus about twenty eight people soon to be holding an ICT4D meeting in Kichwamba (sad memories of the massacre hit our hearts as we remember the innocent students slain by rebelling citizens)........
Looking out through the window there is a calming green so wide and to the distance, Josephine one of the members whispers isn't it beautiful "Tea". One of the largest tea growing places in Uganda - the fear is gone and the town appears - children are waving and looking for attention, Chris gives them some as Tony tells them to go home and bathe! We have arrived!
One quickly notices the old administrative buildings, former government hotel, now renovated and new, banks etc. Quickly one understands that its one of the oldest towns in Uganda built in the same planning administrative buildings to one side and commercial Asian style buildings to the other side. In the center of town there is a statue of Sir Gerald Portal glaring at you, and you know what - he is wielding a rifle in position! A sign that you are in the heart of Fort P as many would call it. Yet another beautiful place, Fort Portal is rich for its magnificent scenery but also the rich culture portrayed in the kingdom of Tooro and the Engabu Za Tooro (http://www.engabuzatooro.or.ug) a very popular cultural group.
Tooro has one of the oldest cultures in Uganda seems to be quite receptive to many other races. When in Fort Portal, one can not help but notice many half casts, whites, blacks, Asians and Indians all living happily and sharing the beautiful view of the Mountains of the moon! This place also happens to be adjacent to the western arm of the great East African rift valley. Asking one Mutooro lady what she thought about life in a multi-ethnic environment - she said "For us in Tooro we believe in the celebration of life and we are all children of God white or black, red or colored so I like all children of God".
A very sobering statement of life indeed strong and rare in its reassuring nature, a statement from a youthful girl it felt safe in Tooro, it was home away from home. The people of Tooro are known as the Batooro. They are proud of their heritage and enjoy a rich culture of oral tradition, tribal customs and dances as well as handicrafts. This is one place in Uganda where the people feel much more Ugandan than else where. To explain this statement in my personal way - tribalism is one of the biggest killers of development in Africa (A topic for another day)! The Batooro seem to accept people from various cultures, races and ethnicities. I like these people.
In Fort Portal at the highest point is the palace of the King of Tooro, still a young king who had to take charge of the kingdom at a tender age, with his caring mother known as Queen Best Kemigisha, they together promote the values of the kingdom. Something specially interesting about this kingdom is its minimal involvement, if any, in political issues of the country! This is indeed a sign of a tribe, a people who would like to see integration of the human race while keeping their values.
Standing at the palace one gets a view of all the sites around the town, its amazing as you look directly at the town below, turn to the right and there you see the parliament of Tooro very nice ancient looking block with large green in the front. To the left are the mountains of the moon towering high above almost disappearing into the sky above. The definitions of this naming are vague however the fact that the highest points are permanently snow capped could be related, Jackie, a Mutoro too, believes that the name came from ancestral beliefs that the mountains meet the moon and sometimes the moon rests at the peaks.
These mountain ranges formed as a result of lifting of the western flank of the rift valley are now called Rwenzori Mountains. In the neighborhood of the town are large tea plantations very large that one begins to imagine the green more like a gigantic golf course, deep inside the plantations are large ancient bungalows, club houses, landing strips and supermarkets forming small towns of mixed communities from all around the world. I think tea is more available there than water........
Looking out through the window there is a calming green so wide and to the distance, Josephine one of the members whispers isn't it beautiful "Tea". One of the largest tea growing places in Uganda - the fear is gone and the town appears - children are waving and looking for attention, Chris gives them some as Tony tells them to go home and bathe! We have arrived!
One quickly notices the old administrative buildings, former government hotel, now renovated and new, banks etc. Quickly one understands that its one of the oldest towns in Uganda built in the same planning administrative buildings to one side and commercial Asian style buildings to the other side. In the center of town there is a statue of Sir Gerald Portal glaring at you, and you know what - he is wielding a rifle in position! A sign that you are in the heart of Fort P as many would call it. Yet another beautiful place, Fort Portal is rich for its magnificent scenery but also the rich culture portrayed in the kingdom of Tooro and the Engabu Za Tooro (http://www.engabuzatooro.or.ug) a very popular cultural group.
Tooro has one of the oldest cultures in Uganda seems to be quite receptive to many other races. When in Fort Portal, one can not help but notice many half casts, whites, blacks, Asians and Indians all living happily and sharing the beautiful view of the Mountains of the moon! This place also happens to be adjacent to the western arm of the great East African rift valley. Asking one Mutooro lady what she thought about life in a multi-ethnic environment - she said "For us in Tooro we believe in the celebration of life and we are all children of God white or black, red or colored so I like all children of God".
A very sobering statement of life indeed strong and rare in its reassuring nature, a statement from a youthful girl it felt safe in Tooro, it was home away from home. The people of Tooro are known as the Batooro. They are proud of their heritage and enjoy a rich culture of oral tradition, tribal customs and dances as well as handicrafts. This is one place in Uganda where the people feel much more Ugandan than else where. To explain this statement in my personal way - tribalism is one of the biggest killers of development in Africa (A topic for another day)! The Batooro seem to accept people from various cultures, races and ethnicities. I like these people.
In Fort Portal at the highest point is the palace of the King of Tooro, still a young king who had to take charge of the kingdom at a tender age, with his caring mother known as Queen Best Kemigisha, they together promote the values of the kingdom. Something specially interesting about this kingdom is its minimal involvement, if any, in political issues of the country! This is indeed a sign of a tribe, a people who would like to see integration of the human race while keeping their values.
Standing at the palace one gets a view of all the sites around the town, its amazing as you look directly at the town below, turn to the right and there you see the parliament of Tooro very nice ancient looking block with large green in the front. To the left are the mountains of the moon towering high above almost disappearing into the sky above. The definitions of this naming are vague however the fact that the highest points are permanently snow capped could be related, Jackie, a Mutoro too, believes that the name came from ancestral beliefs that the mountains meet the moon and sometimes the moon rests at the peaks.
These mountain ranges formed as a result of lifting of the western flank of the rift valley are now called Rwenzori Mountains. In the neighborhood of the town are large tea plantations very large that one begins to imagine the green more like a gigantic golf course, deep inside the plantations are large ancient bungalows, club houses, landing strips and supermarkets forming small towns of mixed communities from all around the world. I think tea is more available there than water........
Monday, April 30, 2007
The Beauty of Apac
Little is known of a place so magnificent & rich in culture, scenery and people a part of the greater Lango region, it is characterized by Savannah like vegetation, flattish expanses of land with isolated mini-mountains, Apac fills you with a unique picturesque vision that you can only find here! Well this time I didn’t feel the adrenaline like that of the Kigezi Region, however the beauty of this place indeed infects one very slowly “like a Mona Lisa smile” and before you realize how much you are attracted, bingo its all over….
You want, to walk the plains, build country homes, picnic at the foot of the mini-mountains and land your Cessna on the swamps – they are so tempting and look like large football fields… You can not even start to imagine why you had not seen all this before….
The trip to Apac from Kampala is indeed a very short one 3 to 4 hours, the shortest being through the Gulu highway all the way to Kafu bridge near Masindi. About 15 minutes after the bridge a turn off to the right leads one to Masindi Port, here one meets the mighty River Nile as it makes its way to Egypt. Where the ferry man tells of the people living along the Nile, their small fishing villages.
A multi-ethnic settlement with minimum of five languages spoken in the villages along the shores including English, Swahili, Lunyoro, Luganda, Lango….. an interesting mix he adds “This place has all East Africans”, we are indeed one in Africa, “you people from Kampala talk about tribes and countries here we live together in harmony” he adds.
Riding aboard the ferry among business people carrying their merchandise including fish, cassava, many fresh foods, paraffin among others, you see this unfolding site of papyrus touching gently on the banks of the river, swaying slowly as if singing songs of harmony and praise to life and its beauties. Landing at the Lango side of the Nile - one gets accosted by the epitome of humorous people………. Also very Dutch (direct - these guys don’t mince their words) like Arjan my Dutch friend and one of the most inspiring partners in my recent life.
Apac is mainly a settlement for the Langi people one of the larger tribes of Uganda. Lango, as it was referred to in the earlier years, is proud to have produced one of the greatest leaders of Uganda a true nationalist, not very well known by the current youthful generation though.
Driving along the murrum road through Akokoro (a Sub-county in Maruzi county of Apac District), the feel of murrum, though considered second class road, is ecstatic the lose gravel gives you a sense of adventure. Looking out through the window, one sees a wide range of trees mostly short beautiful trees with thin leaves and thorns, in the distance you see grasslands clean and green rolling to the small rocks in the background to one side. Turning to the other side, you’re filled with site of the Nile winding along like another big road to Egypt only this time its blue……
Somewhere in the middle of no where emerges this small town next to a fishing village, here you meet Mr. Olinga Otollo Very humorous chap he tales of the pride of the sub-county “one of the great leaders comes from here his home is just 1000 meters a head” he says Obote is still a name to reckon. Indeed as we drive the first Ugandan Prime Minister’s home emerges, a small neat home there is no fence around the homestead as if to say welcome everyone this is home…… Still musing with the scenery we arrive at Ibuje, Jimmy the Mayor of Apac Town tells us of a giant footstep on top of the Ibuje hill where it is believed the biggest giant man in the world lived and left that famous foot-mark.
From the ferry point to Apac Town it is about an hours drive, a small town with a few streets, it’s amazing how much space is there between the streets and the shops, Kampala could learn from this small town the plots are well organized and indeed admirable.
Two main places one should know if you need a place to sleep Lamco and Nami. It’s still very difficult to eat out in Apac, the people are very much family people and will be in their homes for dinner. It is not surprising that visitors to this town, with out local hosts, eat BBQ (roast chicken or meat) for dinner once in a while. The food in Apac is so rich that one could easily put on 10 kg's in a week (Don’t know if its scientifically possible).
The Langi are believed to have remarkable leadership qualities and this was a highly respected standard for any individual who had the qualities, they are also a welcoming people and are known for honesty. “Our women are very beautiful too like the Iteso where your Mum comes from they do not put on so much weight, they are models” The Bar Man at Lamco adds…… Very funny indeed but very true I muse…….
Visiting the sub-counties of Aduku, Inomo, Bala and Ayer one comes across a think forest a rare site in this district however amazingly the forest is home to many species of monkeys, local picnic sites and traditional herbs used for treatment. I wonder in amazement “This district has potential for tourism. I think about the sites from the ferry, the homes of the great leaders, the Ibuje rock and now this forest looking just like the equatorial rain forests……..”
Then comes the mango trees, so many mangoes in the trees. he villager tells us "they are still raw that’s why you see green only, when they ripen you see a mix of yellow and green with a golden reflection from the sun over the trees and you know its time to harvest mangoes” He says. They also make money by selling off some of it to the fruits to makers of Splash Juice.
I look forward to going back to Apac where we shall launch one of the first of its kind of e-Society programmes to support the development initiatives of the people of Apac, Local Government and Civil Society as well as Private Sector Organizations.
Anyway I say to my self Uganda is beautiful and the people even more beautiful, it’s a wonder some times why so many ethnic differences and tribalism destroying human nature of living together in harmony with each other and the environment!
You want, to walk the plains, build country homes, picnic at the foot of the mini-mountains and land your Cessna on the swamps – they are so tempting and look like large football fields… You can not even start to imagine why you had not seen all this before….
The trip to Apac from Kampala is indeed a very short one 3 to 4 hours, the shortest being through the Gulu highway all the way to Kafu bridge near Masindi. About 15 minutes after the bridge a turn off to the right leads one to Masindi Port, here one meets the mighty River Nile as it makes its way to Egypt. Where the ferry man tells of the people living along the Nile, their small fishing villages.
A multi-ethnic settlement with minimum of five languages spoken in the villages along the shores including English, Swahili, Lunyoro, Luganda, Lango….. an interesting mix he adds “This place has all East Africans”, we are indeed one in Africa, “you people from Kampala talk about tribes and countries here we live together in harmony” he adds.
Riding aboard the ferry among business people carrying their merchandise including fish, cassava, many fresh foods, paraffin among others, you see this unfolding site of papyrus touching gently on the banks of the river, swaying slowly as if singing songs of harmony and praise to life and its beauties. Landing at the Lango side of the Nile - one gets accosted by the epitome of humorous people………. Also very Dutch (direct - these guys don’t mince their words) like Arjan my Dutch friend and one of the most inspiring partners in my recent life.
Apac is mainly a settlement for the Langi people one of the larger tribes of Uganda. Lango, as it was referred to in the earlier years, is proud to have produced one of the greatest leaders of Uganda a true nationalist, not very well known by the current youthful generation though.
Driving along the murrum road through Akokoro (a Sub-county in Maruzi county of Apac District), the feel of murrum, though considered second class road, is ecstatic the lose gravel gives you a sense of adventure. Looking out through the window, one sees a wide range of trees mostly short beautiful trees with thin leaves and thorns, in the distance you see grasslands clean and green rolling to the small rocks in the background to one side. Turning to the other side, you’re filled with site of the Nile winding along like another big road to Egypt only this time its blue……
Somewhere in the middle of no where emerges this small town next to a fishing village, here you meet Mr. Olinga Otollo Very humorous chap he tales of the pride of the sub-county “one of the great leaders comes from here his home is just 1000 meters a head” he says Obote is still a name to reckon. Indeed as we drive the first Ugandan Prime Minister’s home emerges, a small neat home there is no fence around the homestead as if to say welcome everyone this is home…… Still musing with the scenery we arrive at Ibuje, Jimmy the Mayor of Apac Town tells us of a giant footstep on top of the Ibuje hill where it is believed the biggest giant man in the world lived and left that famous foot-mark.
From the ferry point to Apac Town it is about an hours drive, a small town with a few streets, it’s amazing how much space is there between the streets and the shops, Kampala could learn from this small town the plots are well organized and indeed admirable.
Two main places one should know if you need a place to sleep Lamco and Nami. It’s still very difficult to eat out in Apac, the people are very much family people and will be in their homes for dinner. It is not surprising that visitors to this town, with out local hosts, eat BBQ (roast chicken or meat) for dinner once in a while. The food in Apac is so rich that one could easily put on 10 kg's in a week (Don’t know if its scientifically possible).
The Langi are believed to have remarkable leadership qualities and this was a highly respected standard for any individual who had the qualities, they are also a welcoming people and are known for honesty. “Our women are very beautiful too like the Iteso where your Mum comes from they do not put on so much weight, they are models” The Bar Man at Lamco adds…… Very funny indeed but very true I muse…….
Visiting the sub-counties of Aduku, Inomo, Bala and Ayer one comes across a think forest a rare site in this district however amazingly the forest is home to many species of monkeys, local picnic sites and traditional herbs used for treatment. I wonder in amazement “This district has potential for tourism. I think about the sites from the ferry, the homes of the great leaders, the Ibuje rock and now this forest looking just like the equatorial rain forests……..”
Then comes the mango trees, so many mangoes in the trees. he villager tells us "they are still raw that’s why you see green only, when they ripen you see a mix of yellow and green with a golden reflection from the sun over the trees and you know its time to harvest mangoes” He says. They also make money by selling off some of it to the fruits to makers of Splash Juice.
I look forward to going back to Apac where we shall launch one of the first of its kind of e-Society programmes to support the development initiatives of the people of Apac, Local Government and Civil Society as well as Private Sector Organizations.
Anyway I say to my self Uganda is beautiful and the people even more beautiful, it’s a wonder some times why so many ethnic differences and tribalism destroying human nature of living together in harmony with each other and the environment!
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