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Kampala, Uganda

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I realized I'v written about other countries and stuff but never about the one i actually study in. Maybe its because it has taken me this long to understand the crazy which is Kampala.

Ok, let me start by telling u that i actually dont live in kla. I live in mbra, but i frequent kla for obvious reasons. Kampala is misunderstood for so many reasons. I dont even know where to start.

City Centre 
Ok, real life story. Being on a bodaboda (motorbike) in kla is like the scariest experience ever. I have to close my eyes a million times muttering prayers the whole time. The traffic is obscene. Really. If there aren't cars or buses, they are bodaboda's. Then of course the masses of people all walking against u. But no, this is not what i want to talk about.'kla is just misunderstood. This city can provide anything u need anywhere at anytime. Broke your sandal? There's the guy who fixes across the road. Lost? There's a boda guy who'll take u there and on time too. Lookin for a tennis racket which electrocutes mosquitoes? There. Have nothing to wear to the disco? Affordable cute things everywhere..and open 24/7. Want to get drunk? This one is obvious. Kampala has a 24hr transport system...readily available on any corner of the streets! You cant be turned back in kla. Everyone's needs are catered for.

The Young and Dance
The party life is really awesome. A hundred joints depending on wat crowd u want and the pocket u have. Lotsa fashionable diva's. All wanting to outdo the other. The big difference about kla party life and most other countries is that There's little to no crime! You can walk home singing if u want. Never heard of any one being carjacked. The worst u get is pickpocketing. One really feels safe. You can eat breakfast at 3 in the mornin in wandegs. U can go to 5 happening joints without paying for entry. Anyway, u get the picture.

The Real Deal
My emotions wit the daytime and night are so different. U have to be a gangster like me to hustle through downtown kla. The potholes, mud, vendors, crowding and unforgiving sun are enough to drive you crazy. But that sense of achievement as u sit in the taxi finally on your way home, paperbags full of goodies makes it all worthwhile. Kampala is a big bad city. But can also be fun and exhilarating. Dont be fooled by the CHOGM hotels which were built in a day. Few access those. The beat of the city is down where the people are. The real people.

 Uganda
Uganda as far as I'm concerned represents everything Africa. It can be highly frustrating but also strangely comforting. Its hard to understand until you are standing staring at the scenic mountains of Kabale in Western Uganda and the cool breeze hits your back and you swear you have never seen anything so beautiful. Its all worth it when your friend's mother invites you into her home and insists you call her 'mama' and feeds you till you cannot breathe. You know you are in Uganda when no one can eat a meal in front of another without sharing, or have a function without inviting the entire neighbourhood.. Uganda is kind and cheerful. Its the soul of a continent struggling with political turmoil, near epidemic tragedy, economic struggles and historical scars..but Uganda still smiles, still hopes, still thrives.

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