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Driving in East Africa: Know Road Conditions

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East Africa Self Drive

East Africa, a region characterized by its diverse geography and cultures, includes countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan. The region offers a mix of urban and rural settings, each presenting unique road conditions and challenges for self-driving. This comprehensive analysis explores the road conditions across East Africa and evaluates their suitability for self-driving East Africa, taking into account infrastructure, terrain, weather, traffic, safety, navigation, and cultural and regulatory factors.

  1. Road Infrastructure and Quality

Urban Areas

  • In major cities like Nairobi (Kenya), Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), and Kampala (Uganda), road infrastructure has seen significant improvements over the past decades. These cities boast relatively well-maintained roads, including major highways, which are generally paved and suitable for self-driving. Urban roads typically feature proper signage, lane markings, and traffic lights, which facilitate navigation.
  • However, even in these cities, traffic congestion during peak hours can be severe, affecting the overall driving experience. Additionally, road maintenance can be inconsistent, with some areas experiencing potholes and wear due to heavy usage and inadequate upkeep.

Rural Areas

  • In contrast, rural areas in East Africa often present more challenging driving conditions. Many secondary roads are unpaved and can become muddy and impassable during the rainy season. Potholes, erosion, and lack of maintenance are common issues. These roads may also be narrow, with little room for maneuvering, and lack adequate signage, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • In remote areas, drivers might encounter dirt tracks that are suitable only for four-wheel-drive vehicles. During the dry season, dust can severely reduce visibility, while the rainy season can turn these tracks into quagmires.
  1. Terrain and Weather Conditions

Terrain

East Africa’s diverse terrain significantly impacts road conditions and the self-driving experience. The region includes flat savannas, hilly areas, mountainous regions, and coastal plains.

  • Flat Savannas: Roads across flat savannas, such as those in parts of Kenya and Tanzania, can be relatively straightforward to navigate. However, these areas can be prone to sudden wildlife crossings, requiring drivers to remain vigilant.
  • Hilly and Mountainous Areas: Regions such as western Uganda and northern Tanzania have hilly and mountainous terrain. Roads here can be steep, winding, and narrow, posing challenges, especially for inexperienced drivers. The risk of landslides during heavy rains can also obstruct roads.
  • Coastal Areas: Coastal areas in Kenya and Tanzania can face unique challenges such as flooding and erosion, particularly during the rainy season. These conditions can cause significant road damage and require careful navigation.

Weather

Weather conditions play a crucial role in determining road safety and drivability in East Africa.

  • Rainy Season: East Africa experiences two main rainy seasons: the long rains (March to May) and the short rains (October to December). During these periods, heavy rainfall can lead to flooding, landslides, and road washouts, particularly affecting rural and unpaved roads. Urban areas can experience severe traffic disruptions due to waterlogged roads.
  • Dry Season: The dry season, while generally offering better driving conditions, can bring its own challenges. Dust from unpaved roads can reduce visibility, and high temperatures can affect vehicle performance, particularly if not properly maintained.
  1. Traffic and Safety

Traffic Conditions

Traffic conditions in East Africa vary greatly between urban and rural areas.

  • Urban Traffic: Cities like Nairobi, Kampala, and Dar es Salaam are known for their heavy traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours. Traffic jams can be exacerbated by factors such as road construction, accidents, and inadequate traffic management systems. Navigating through these cities requires patience and familiarity with local driving customs.
  • Rural Traffic: Rural areas generally have less traffic, but drivers must be cautious of other hazards such as livestock, wildlife, and pedestrians. The lack of road markings and signage can make navigation more challenging.

Safety Concerns

Safety is a significant concern for self-driving in East Africa due to several factors:

  • Driving Behavior: Aggressive driving, overtaking on narrow roads, and non-compliance with traffic rules are common in some areas. These behaviors increase the risk of accidents.
  • Road Conditions: Poorly maintained roads, potholes, and unmarked obstacles can pose significant hazards.
  • Vehicle Condition: Many vehicles on the road may not be well-maintained, leading to breakdowns and accidents. Ensuring your vehicle is in top condition is crucial.
  • Security: In some regions, security concerns such as carjacking and highway robbery can be a risk, particularly at night or in remote areas. Staying informed about the security situation and avoiding high-risk areas is advisable.
  1. Navigation and Communication

Navigation Tools

  • Reliable navigation is crucial for self-driving in East Africa. While major cities have good GPS coverage, rural and remote areas may not. Offline maps and GPS devices are essential tools for these regions. Services like Google Maps and Waze are commonly used in urban areas but may have limited information in rural zones.

Communication Networks

  • Mobile network coverage varies significantly across East Africa. Urban areas typically have good coverage with 3G or 4G services, while rural areas may have limited or no connectivity. Carrying a satellite phone or other communication devices can be essential for emergencies in remote areas.

Cultural and Regulatory Factors

Traffic Regulations

  • Each East African country has its own set of traffic regulations, which may differ from international standards. Familiarizing yourself with these rules is essential for a safe driving experience. For instance, most countries in the region drive on the left side of the road, a practice inherited from British colonial rule.

Cultural Etiquette

  • Understanding and respecting local driving customs is important. In some areas, drivers may use informal signals or honk to communicate. Patience and adaptability are key, as driving styles can be more chaotic compared to Western standards.

Conclusion

Self-driving in East Africa offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse landscapes and cultures. While major highways and urban roads are generally suitable for self-driving, rural and remote areas present unique obstacles that require careful planning and consideration. Preparation is key. Ensuring your vehicle is in excellent condition, familiarizing yourself with local driving regulations, and understanding the terrain and weather conditions are crucial steps.

Faith in God Must Be Nurtured

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Faith in God

The name Nicodemus may not be common among Christians but is definitely of great significance in the ministry of Jesus and to Christianity in general. Nicodemus appears at the beginning of the ministry and reappears during the events that surrounded the murderous death of Jesus.

This gap in between has led some people in to doubts over people in to doubts over Nicodemus disciples and commitment to Jesus. The doubt is supported by the observation that Nicodemus does not feature in the early church in Jerusalem.

Nicodemus is referred to in John 3:1 as a ruler of the Jews. It means he was a member of the Sanhedrin, the highest legal or judicial body of the Jewish people.

Nicodemus was also a teacher, an interpreter of the law and a very wealthy man. St Paul was also one a member of the Sanhedrin the name Nicodemus apparently means “victory of the people. It was prophetic to the mission of Jesus.

Impressed by the teaching and miracles of Jesus Nicodemus came at night to confess his belief in his messianic mission and to be more grounded in the faith Jesus applies the occasion to impart the message that have become very central to his Gospel.

Nicodemus is enabled to appreciate Jesus mission that would end in sacrificial death (and resurrection) as the great revelation of God’s unconditional love to mankind, Nicodemus also learns that for one to enter the kingdom of God, faith in Jesus and baptism (being born again) would be necessary. These messages became the foundation of the Christian Faith.

Later on, during the Passion of Jesus Nicodemus tried to defend Jesus Nicodemus tried to defend Jesus when the Sanhedrin was t get rid of the master. Soon after the murderous death of Jesus on the cross, Nicodemus together with Joseph of Arimathea, a fellow member of Sanhedrin offered to accord Jesus with a decent burial

In this respect, Nicodemus could also have differed from the Sanhedrin in bribing the eye witness soldiers against the revealing of the resurrection of Joseph

Some bible scholars interpret the coming of Nicodemus to Jesus at night as being out of prudence or emotional intelligence rather than out of fear. In the first place since it was during the peak of Jewish festival in Jerusalem.

Nicodemus might have meant to avoid the crowds that would have interrupted his interview with Jesus, but most importantly, an open disciple at that time could easily have led to his premature elimination by his colleagues.

It is alleged that Nicodemus eventually became a fully confessed Christian and died a martyr. Nicodemus is a Christian name unlike the rest of the pharisees who used to go Jesus to trick Him into mistakes by using the letter of Law, Nicodemus was truly seeking truth in order to nourish his faith with humility and mutual respect.

Such are the qualities that would enable one disown oneself for higher values or to pick up one’s cross day after day and follow Jesus continually (Luke 9: 23) The story reveals that Jesus came to save every one rich and poor, little and great alike

Nicodemus was indeed a winning card for Jesus. He emerges a very important disciple of Jesus and a role model to all disciple, Lent is given to rediscover our faith relationship with God in Jesus, which began at our spiritual rebirth at baptism it is a time to nourish our faith by internalizing the scripture and the catechism. Lent is ultimately, a time to translate faith in to action.

South Sudan Emerges the Largest Exporter of Uganda

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According to the report from Bank of Uganda, Uganda exported up to $55.9 million worth of goods to South Sudan in January and this represents 54% increase from the previous month.

This has made the northern neighbors emerging Uganda’s top export market, surpassing Kenya which signifies shift in regional trade patterns.

For long Kenya was biggest exporter market for Uganda’s goods within the region, and there has been a shift which left Kenya’s market pushed to third position with Democratic Republic of Congo being second with $45.4 million worth of goods exported in the month of January.

Uganda shipped $35.7 million worth of goods to Kenya in January, a 1% drop from the previous month.

According to trade experts, the shift is a significant boon for Uganda’s economy, which has been seeking to diversify its export markets.

Major manufactured goods exported from Uganda to South Sudan market include; cement, sugar, fast-moving consumer goods, and cereals, and the demand for such goods is expected to grow which drives growth in the bilateral trade.

“The growth in trade with South Sudan is expected to continue, driven by growing demand for Ugandan goods,” said Allan Ssenyondwa, the manager of policy and advocacy at the Uganda Manufacturers Association. “These exports are a shot in the arm for Uganda’s economy, and we’re thrilled to see our manufacturers making inroads into the regional market.”

The development is also a testament to the growing economic ties between Uganda and South Sudan, which have been fostered through various regional trade agreements and infrastructure development projects.

As Uganda expands its export base, countries such as South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan are likely to play an increasingly important role.

Uganda’s exports to South Sudan have been increasing at an annualized rate of 12.2% from 2018 to 2023.

In related news, Uganda’s exports to Sudan increased by 63% in January, with goods worth $15.2 million exported to the country. Coffee, tea, and spices are among the main products exported to Sudan, which is a leading coffee market destination in Africa for Uganda.

5 Most Popular Rental Cars for Self Drive in Uganda

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Car Rentals in Uganda

Taking a self drive tour is one of the growing modes of adventuring Uganda. Today a good number of independent travelers arrange self guided road trips and adventures through Uganda’s best national parks and tourist locations. However before hitting the road on your next road trip, you need to get equipped with the right car and the right gear in order to have a successful and memorable holiday through the Pearl of Africa.

What are the best cars for Self Guided Tours in Uganda?

Many people wonder about the best cars to use on a self guided tour. Though there are many cars available for offer on self drive in from various rental agencies, you need to match your needs with a car that will respect all whatever you are planning to do on your vacation.

There are a variety of cars but let us bring to you a list of top cheapest cars for rent in Uganda, many clients always take long time to find a car which can fit their budget and at times they end up making wrong choices of ineffective cars which consumes a lot of fuel. It’s better to go on a cheap car that economize on fuel but still offer you a perfect service, here is a list of cost effective Uganda cars to hire.

Toyota Rav4

This type of vehicle leads the list of less expensive cars in Uganda to hire, this 4wheel drive is suitable as it can accommodate up to 3-5 people with a good seat row space and boot to carry your luggage’s . It’s very good in economizing fuel with easy navigation and diesel engine. For those interested in self drive tours it works it better especially if going around the city, function, business.It’s very common in Uganda because of its lower cost of renting if compared with other cars available on the market.

Price Guide – You can hire a Toyota Rav4 from as low as USD 45 to USD 60 per day depending on the places you intend to visit and the number of days you wish to use the car.

Toyota Corolla

This car is also used by very many people in Uganda. It is the cheapest car to use for your travel within Kampala and all the major towns in Uganda. It can accommodate up to 4-5 people, and it is good in economizing fuel costs. When going for conference meeting, picnics, touring the city as well as parties this is a suitable car to use. You can hire it at UD$50 with a driver and US$40 without a driver.

Price Guide – You can hire a Toyota Corolla from as low as USD 40 per day.

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado

This can’t be left out among the top less expensive car to hire in Uganda, this 4 wheel drive is a Japan made by an automobile company, Toyota Motors. It is very comfortable, well equipped with useful road gadgets, an air conditioner and also it has a good space for luggage. It can accommodate up to 6 people.

Price: This car can be hired out from as low as US$ 70 – USD100 per day depending on the number of days you wish the car to use it.

For more information about more affordable cars and car hire in Uganda contact us at info@ugandaselfdrive.com we will get back to you swiftly.

NIRA Celebrates Valentine’s Day With 12 Couples Tying Knot

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Wedding in Uganda

It was an unusual Valentine’s Day for 12 couples as the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), which recently assumed responsibility for marriage registration, oversaw the wedding of three couples at their headquarters in Kololo.

“It was as simple as we wanted it to be. We obviously wanted more, like having our families with us, but mine couldn’t come. However, we just wanted to be happy and have this special day, so we opted for this type of ceremony,” said one of the couples, an American citizen who married Agide Musiina.

Rosemary Kisembo, NIRA’s Executive Director, explained that the event was an opportunity for the authority to celebrate Valentine’s Day with the couples.

Kisembo also highlighted the importance of marriage registration.

“Marriage is often surrounded by celebrations, fanfare, customs, and costly ceremonies, yet the crucial step of registering the marriage is often overlooked,” she said.

She continued, “The cost of registering a marriage is only shs 35,000. On this day of love, I urge you to ask your spouse, your church, or your mosque if your marriage is registered. Without registration, you risk the possibility of your spouse being married to someone else, potentially jeopardizing the 20 years you’ve invested in your relationship.”

Tips to Practice Responsible Travel in Uganda

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Responsible travel in Uganda is about minimizing the negative impacts of tourism while fostering sustainable interactions between travelers and local communities.

This approach benefits both the environment and the people, creating a more enriching travel experience for everyone. Uganda safaris are tailored for those who seek an authentic, more personalized experience, offering an opportunity to explore local cultures and environments without contributing to the pressures of mass tourism.

Here’s a guide to responsible travel practices that can make your Ugandan adventure not only enjoyable but also sustainable.

Before You Travel: Preparation is Key

The journey to responsible travel begins before you even set foot in Uganda. Understanding and respecting local cultures is essential to making your visit a positive one. Take time to learn about the people and traditions of the areas you will visit. This could involve reading up on the local history, customs, and ways of life. A simple yet effective way to engage with the locals is by learning a few words in the local language. Greeting people with words like “Jambo” (hello) or “Asante” (thank you) can go a long way in making you feel more welcomed and appreciated. You can get to know all about this by finding an online Uganda travel guide with all the necessary information about the culture of the country.

In addition to cultural awareness, it’s important to be mindful of the environmental impact of your travel. Uganda has been battling plastic pollution, especially in rural and natural areas, which has a significant impact on the local environment. Therefore, travelers are encouraged to reduce their use of plastic materials before their trip. Consider avoiding packing plastic bags and other disposable items. If you must carry them, ensure that you dispose of them responsibly, ideally by avoiding the use of single-use plastic during your travels.

Responsible travelers are also encouraged to bring thoughtful gifts to share with local communities, especially schools and children. Rather than giving handouts, which can sometimes create dependency, look for ways to contribute to sustainable development. For instance, you can donate books, clothing, or school supplies. Many communities also welcome volunteer work, so consider reaching out to your tour operator in Uganda for advice on volunteer opportunities. Such contributions can help make your visit more meaningful and directly benefit the local population.

While on Safari: Supporting the Local Economy and Environment

When you arrive in Uganda, it’s crucial to continue practicing responsible travel by supporting local industries. Buy locally made crafts and products as this helps sustain local businesses and creates job opportunities. Many of the products sold by Ugandan artisans are made using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. Purchasing these items not only supports the local economy but also helps preserve Uganda’s rich cultural heritage.

Another important aspect of responsible travel in Uganda is supporting local employment. Many tour operators in Uganda, including those offering safaris, employ local staff as driver-guides, porters, and safari consultants. These jobs provide essential income for families and communities, contributing to the overall economic well-being of the region. By booking with a local tour operator, you are directly supporting indigenous businesses and contributing to job creation.

Respecting local cultures is an important aspect of responsible travel. Uganda is home to many different ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions and beliefs. It is crucial to be aware of cultural sensitivities and avoid actions that may cause offense. For example, it’s important to dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites, and to ask for permission before taking photographs of local people. Understanding the local customs and practicing respect can help foster positive relationships with the communities you visit.

Additionally, participating in activities that promote community development and environmental conservation is a great way to make a positive impact. Many tours offer opportunities to engage in eco-tourism activities such as village walks, cultural performances, or wildlife conservation initiatives. By taking part in these activities, you help fund local projects that preserve both the environment and the community’s way of life. Support for eco-friendly initiatives ensures that your travel benefits the environment, such as helping protect Uganda’s endangered species and natural habitats.

After Your Safari: Giving Back and Providing Feedback

After your safari experience, responsible travel doesn’t end. Sharing your feedback with your tour operator is an essential part of promoting responsible tourism. Let them know how the experience was in terms of sustainability and community impact. Feedback on accommodations, local tour services, and the overall environmental footprint of the safari can help improve future travel experiences for others. Also, share your thoughts on ways to minimize the environmental impact of tourism in Uganda.

Another meaningful way to contribute after your trip is by supporting charitable causes or vulnerable groups you encountered during your visit. Many local communities, schools, orphanages, and women’s groups rely on donations and support from visitors. Consider sending financial support, donating materials, or getting involved in ongoing charitable projects. By donating to local schools or environmental conservation efforts, you continue to support sustainable development long after you’ve returned home.

Conclusion

Responsible travel in Uganda allows you to enjoy an authentic and enriching experience while minimizing your impact on the environment and the local community. By preparing for your trip with cultural awareness, reducing waste, and supporting local businesses, you help create a more sustainable form of tourism. During your safari, buying local products, respecting cultural practices, and participating in eco-tourism activities are all important steps in supporting responsible tourism. Finally, sharing feedback and contributing to charitable causes ensures that your travels leave a positive legacy. By practicing responsible travel in Uganda, you contribute to the long-term well-being of the people and the environment, making your trip even more meaningful.

Bwindi Forest: Uganda’s Hidden Gem for Gorilla Safaris

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Bwindi Biodiversity

Uganda is a stunning country with a large number of tourist attractions and an astonishing amount of places to explore while on vacation in Africa. Though this landlocked nation may not be well-known in books, individuals who have traveled to other African nations can agree with me that it is worthwhile to visit Uganda.

According to the “Pearl of Africa TV,” Sir Winston Spencer Churchill, a former prime minister of the United Kingdom, branded Uganda as the “Pearl of Africa” back in 1907.

“The Kingdom of Uganda is an interesting story. You ascend… and a lovely new world awaits you at the top. The people are unlike anything else to be seen in the entirety of Africa, and the environment, vegetation, and climate are all distinctive. He declared, “Uganda is certainly the pearl of Africa,” and those words are still true today.

Visitors are attracted to Uganda by its breathtaking terrain, which includes lush, rolling hills, snow-capped mountains, rainforests, mighty rivers, enormous lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. A variety of magnificent national parks are also available for your safari experience with the animals for which Africa is known.

The world’s highest population of primates is found in Uganda, where there are more of each species than anyplace else. Three national parks— Kibale Forest, Mgahinga National Park, and the majestic Bwindi Forest—are dedicated solely to protecting primates.

The 331 sq. km. Bwindi Forest National Park is without a doubt the most visited place in Uganda by tourists from across the world because it provides an unforgettable gorilla safari experience that is best experienced in person. The best location in the world to view mountain gorillas, not just in Uganda. Impenetrable Forest is the name given to it for good cause. The forest is dense with trees and even more so with creepers, bamboos, and parasitic plants like mistletoe and orchids. Mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and 8 other species of ape live in this area.

Gorilla Trekking

Here, more over half of the estimated 1050 mountain gorillas who live in the globe have a safe haven. To ensure that the animals’ daily routines are not disrupted, gorilla tracking is only permitted in small groups of eight persons per gorilla family. It takes a lot of work to find the gorillas, so plan on hiking for up to 3 to 8 hours.

A gorilla permit costs $800 per person, and a window for a gorilla habituation experience costs $1500 per person if you desire to spend more time with these gentle giants. Ruhija, Buhoma, Rushaga, and Nkuringo are the four sectors of the park where gorilla tracking is done in Bwindi. Physical fitness is a requirement. You’re encouraged to make

About Mountain Gorillas

Like humans, gorillas are naturally curious, can be assertive, irritated, happy, enthusiastic, terrified, worried, exhibit affection, and even be hostile. Gorillas enjoy observing individuals to determine whether they are sociable. They fall under the categories of Mountain Gorillas and Lowland Gorillas, which are further divided into Western and Eastern Lowland Gorillas.

The remaining mountain gorillas, a vulnerable primate species, are only found in Africa’s four national parks, which are located in the three countries of Uganda (Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga), Rwanda (Volcanoes), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Virunga). Outside of their original mountain forest habitat, there are no mountain gorillas.

Their Way Of Life

Gorillas live in groups or families without distinct territorial divisions, however family ranges can be anywhere between 2 and 15 square miles. Who is allowed into the family is decided by the females. The female gorillas will scratch a gorilla in the face to prevent her from joining another group if they do not want her to. The other females will hold her by the legs and prevent her from leaving if a female wants to leave a group to locate a guy she likes better but the other females really like her.

Adult male gorillas can weigh up to 700 pounds, whereas female gorillas typically average around 350 pounds. Gorilla adults can reach heights of seven feet and have an 8-foot arm span.

Feeding

Gorillas consume 58 different plant species, including bamboo shoots, thistles, ferns, stems, roots, leaves, and flowers. Their preferred foods are celery, fruits, and gallium vines. Gorillas can crush bamboo, bark, and other materials because they have considerably larger back teeth than humans.

How They Communicate

Gorillas grunt, a pig grunt of strong staccato grunts used while reprimanding or whining, to express their contentment. A gorilla will shout or scream if it feels threatened. The interaction between silverbacks is signaled by a raucous hoot or roar. By hitting one’s chest and thrashing trees, this is accomplished. Gorillas release a potent stench from their glands when they are alarmed.

Along with its famous gorillas, Bwindi is home to over 300 different bird species, including rare forest birds, elephants, bush pigs, huge forest hogs, and uncommon forest birds. Numerous varieties of bats and rodents, 14 snake species, 27 frog and toad species, 6 chameleon kinds, 14 lizard species, skinks, and other creatures have also made this ecosystem their home.

If you have more time in the country, consider planning a lengthy Uganda safari that includes stops at other well-known tourist attractions like Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls for game viewing, Kibale Forest for the chimpanzees, and the remote Kidepo National Park for both untouched wildlife and local culture. A city tour of Kampala, the nation’s capital, is a great way to begin or conclude your trip to the pearl of Africa.

Starting the New Year Right: Nurture Your Spirit of Giving

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New Year New Start

During the holiday season, I realized that giving is far better than receiving. Even though I have lived in Uganda for almost three years now, this holiday season was different because I actually saw the need all around me and the benefits of sacrificing my needs and wants for a change to give to others like never before.

Contrary to the enormous focus on gift buying and giving in America, it seems to me that most Ugandans focus and care more on family during the holidays—which I believe that is what the holiday season is all about. Or maybe it is because of the various socio-economical issues that many Ugandans cant afford to adapt this expensive option. Whatever is the case, my friends seemed glad and well content after visiting relatives in town and in the villages, despite their lack of receiving presents and looking at Christmas trees.

I spent the Christmas holiday with friends who recently shared with me that they were thrilled to open their home to me, and was pleased that I gave them in exchange only my appreciation and company.

In addition, these and other friends I spent New Years Eve with, also focused on this virtue of giving and sharing, which made me desire to continue giving to others in need in 2006.

Now, I am really not into New Years resolutions, but I have a heavy burden in my heart to give for the sake of giving, whether it is love, a hug, my time, my advice, my company, my money, and sometimes gifts to uplift a boggled-down spirit or to put a big grin on a childs face.

Recently, I attended a mission trip to Kigali, Rwanda to minister to the children at Gospel Christ Fellowship Church and to attend their Christian Leadership Conference. In Rwanda, I experienced love and the result of giving in a way that is only imaginable.

Honestly, when I left Kampala I was so spiritually pumped to give my expertise to their childrens ministry that I couldnt wait to see what I could do to put smiles on the childrens faces.

But boy, was I in for a surprise because when I saw those children, underprivileged and poor but with joy shining on their faces, they radiated more bliss and love to me than I think I could ever give to them. This made me feel extremely blessed to the point that I felt they were giving more to me than I was giving to them.

The children are part of a ministry at the church called the Abana Bumwami Children Foundation (Abana Bumwami means the Kings children) that was established two years ago at the church through Pastor Francis Mutabazi. The foundations mission is to provide the children in the surrounding community with spiritual and physical growth, and a chance to receive a proper education. Mutabazis vision is based on the command of Jesus for believers to teach the children about Him and the bible. In addition, the foundation exists to provide holistic support to the orphaned, abandoned and marginalized children of Rwanda, and to provide them with spiritual, social, mental, emotional, and material support, so they can experience a loving relationship with God. As a result, these children will grow to be positive individuals in society, responsible adults and servant leaders for today and the future.

Because of these childrens extreme poverty condition, many people would think that these children dont have much to smile about. Yet, these young children have such a passion for God and a desire to live their lives to the fullest, they cant help but to smile and laugh.

Even my host family, the family I stayed with while I was in Kigali, was a blessing to me. Not only did they feed me until I couldnt eat anymore, but the Ndayambaje family, Johnson, Mary, Richard, Benjamin, Fortunate, Ritah, Sharon and Isaac made sure they gave me their attention, love, support, and company during my entire visit to make me feel welcomed and appreciated.

I attended this trip with a few pastors, bible students and bible teachers from my church Calvary Chapel Kampala, to assist Limitless Boundaries in providing support to Gospel Christ Fellowship.

Limitless Boundaries, a mission-based organization which is affiliated with Calvary Chapel La Habra church in California, is busy cultivating and planting other churches in other parts of the world, too, in places like Europe and Asia. In addition, they have begun a missions training program where men and women are given the opportunity to learn and serve in an environment where they can experience the changing work of the word of God together. Practical ministry is also taught in order to prepare individuals for ministry service.

While visiting with these children, I could see the need. Along with the word of God, they also needed clothes and food. Fortunately, I was able to witness more than 50 children receive letters from their sponsors through Limitless Boundaries to let them know that they were continuing their commitment to financially support the childrens needs in the future.

These sponsors, who are just ordinary church folks in La Habra, are aware that some of these children were orphaned by the Rwanda genocide and some of their parents died from AIDS or were affected with the HIV virus. And, these churches and believers are trying to do all they can to keep the children’s spirits alive.

Nevertheless, when I was around the children, I felt they didnt need much from me—just my smile, hugs, a few pieces of candy, and for me to lead them in songs, bible lessons and games to keep them happy.

Many of us think that children need toys, fancy gadgets and other material things to make them happy. But after this holiday season, I hope many have realized that our loved ones, especially children, just need people to give them love and care.

Let us focus this year on achieving an attitude of simply giving out of love, without stressing ourselves about how much we need to buy so that we can give it to make a big impression. But, for our spirits to be moved to just simply give what we can afford –like our time and devotion to visit a loved one, to play with a child, and maybe get involved with a church, a faith-based organization or mission that serves our neighborhoods or our global community.

Because that is what life is all about, right? People, and not things.

Caesarean Section or Vaginal Birth: Which is the Best?

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Pregnant Care

Now you are pregnant. You are going to have a baby. You have checked yourself at the antenatal clinic as required by your doctor, bought all the necessities for the coming baby-clothes, pampers, dippers, nappies, name it. For you are the modern lady who has planned for this delivery with your partner.

But you just forgot one important thing: How are you going to give birth to your baby? Is it going to be vaginally through the birth canal or abdominally via caesarean section?

Although many women would cry foul when they are told that they are to ‘face the Knife’ or to undergo a caesarean birth, many women are increasingly preferring to go for caesarean section. It is no longer waiting for doctors to recommend the caesarean.

Christine, a 25 year-old mother of one from Entebbe says that some women prefer a caesarean birth because they perceive it to be pain-free. “They say that the operation is carried out under an aesthetic and therefore there are no pains of labour to be endured.”

“Some women get worried about how something as large as a baby could possibly fit through such a small opening (birth canal). Some of them even have fears that the baby may be ‘squashed’ and damaged in the process,” she says.

Christine also says that some women prefer a caesarean because it is clean. “The nature of the operating theatre is very different from the physical exertion of labour. No sweat and tears. The mess of amniotic fluid and blood is dealt with out of sight. There are no lumps of poo emerging from the rectum, pushed out by the baby’s head as it journeys down the vagina,” she explains. She however says that she cannot go for caesarean birth unless it is the only option left to save her life or that of the baby. “The most obvious disadvantage of caesarean is the post-operative recovery period,” she says.

Contrary to popular perception, delivery by caesarean section is far from an easy option. Caesarean mothers are never able to jump off the operating table and get straight back to normal. “The operation itself may be completely pain free but the post-operative recovery period rarely continues to be so. There is, of course, a range of painkillers to help mothers through the first few days,” says Christine.

“But even so, moving around, handling your new born baby and going to the toilet, all present their own difficulties and have to be tackled slowly and carefully,” she adds, while giving her sister Mary as an example of a mother who faced the difficulty.

Depending on the type, severity and response to treatment, the post-operative infections can sometimes be quite distressing and can slow the recovery rate quite considerably.

According to AIMS medical Journal of 2002 titled ‘vaginal birth after caesarean’, scar tissue or adhesions may cause long- term pain, bowel obstruction, infertility or miscarriage. “The scar may make repeat surgery more difficult,” the Journal explains in part.

The authors, Gina Lowdon and Debbie Chippington Derrick say that those against caesarean birth widely acknowledge that the baby plays a part in deciding when the time is right to be born. They say that babies born by caesarean section can show signs of being angry and do not appreciate being delivered before they are ready.

Since it has all these consequences, then, how come more and more women are said to be increasingly opting to give birth by caesarean? “The reasons women give have more to do with the unacceptability of what happens during what passes as ‘normal’ labour and birth, than the appeal of major surgery. The realities of what women experience in our labour wards today is hardly inspiring,” reads the journal. Just ask mothers who have given birth from general (none private) maternity wards of even our main hospitals like Mulago, Nsambya or Mengo to understand how unappealing the situation can be.

“It is no longer a private time where women give birth to their babies themselves, supported and cared for by a few known, trusted, and accepted attendants in a familiar atmosphere,” notes the authors of the Journal.

The authors also say that some women believe that vaginal birth today is dangerous for the baby. “Women sometimes have difficulty in believing that an experience that can be so awful for them can be any better for their baby,” they say in the journal.

They say that vaginal birth today is no longer the natural process that has served the human race so well for millennia.

Mama Fiona, who was attending to her expectant daughter at Mengo hospital, agrees. “During the normal birth, the head of the child may fail to go out and the doctors may have to use machines to pull out the baby. This is normal (vaginal) birth but it is also dangerous because machines can bruise the baby’s head and the vagina of the mother,” says Mama Fiona.

Next to her was Jane, another expectant mother. She says that some women fear that their vagina would enlarge and that this would contribute to strife between the husband and the wife when it comes to bedroom matters. “But that is nonsense. I can not risk my life because I wants to fulfill my husband’s sexual expectations,” she says to the amusement of the neighbors.

Jane says that some men push their wives to have caesarean birth for that reason (avoiding the enlargement of the vagina). “That is putting their wives at a risk. I hear there are special gynecologists who can carry out operations to narrow the path. Why can’t they try that option,” she says.

There are also social reasons for this trend. Chris Babiha, a male student of Kyambogo University, says that some women go for caesarean birth because they want to have fewer children than those their husbands want and also be able to keep their marriages.

“Sometimes, women find themselves in a dilemma. You find their husbands want say 10 children when the women want to give birth to only two. So, they opt for caesarean to get a reason of not giving birth to many children,” he says.

The AIMS journal however notes that although people give many credible reasons for opting for caesarian section as opposed to virginal birth, the major problem is the state of health care system and particularly the maternity services, which are less than desirable in many developing countries like Uganda.

Drs. Gina Lowdon and Debbie Chippington Derrick say that until such time when true midwifery can come to the fore and women are given the emotional support that they need during delivery, it is likely that numbers of women needing to opt out by requesting surgery will continue to rise.

This is because even some women who are well informed of the realities of caesarean birth maintain a preference for this form of delivery.

Why Vaginal birth?
(a) Babies born vaginally have a lower risk of respiratory problems. It is widely accepted that the contractions of labour help prepare the baby’s lungs to breathe air. Babies born by caesarean section have a higher risk of respiratory distress syndrome than babies born vaginally at the same gestational age. Adults with asthma are more likely to have been delivered by caesarean section compared with adults without asthma.

(b) It is also widely acknowledged that the baby plays a part in deciding when the time is right to be born. It has been commented that babies born by elective caesarean section can show signs of being angry and do not appreciate being delivered before they are ready.

(c) The passage down the birth canal also gives a baby a wonderful all-over massage that wakes up various systems in the body – cranial osteopaths claim to be able to detect whether a baby was born vaginally or by caesarean.

(d) Mothers who feel safe, confident and well supported rarely find the level of pain reaches the point where it becomes unbearable. Their hormonal state supports the process rather than fighting against it. Labour is not perceived as being a trial, the pain is more like that experienced by athletes when they are giving their all and trying their hardest. Labour and birth are often the hardest physical work a modern woman ever has to do, but can also be the most rewarding.

(e) A mother who has experienced a natural birth can generally walk unaided after the birth and can begin caring for her baby straightaway.

(f) A mother who has experienced a natural birth is usually able to become involved in family life within hours of the birth and can get back to normal daily life within just a few days.

(g) When the birth has gone well, the baby is often peaceful, quiet and relaxed. Also mothers feel stronger, both physically and emotionally. There is a wonderful sense of achievement and peace, of strength and control, of health and completeness, of being able to cope and get on with life in general. It is a very positive life-changing experience.

Why caesarean delivery?
(a) Caesarean can be scheduled. Because of modernity some people want to reach the extent of choosing the date of the baby’s birthday. To some people the child’s birthday is considerable important and they want to try as much as possible to ensure that their child is not born on the day they don’t like say March 13.

(b) A caesarean is quick in comparison to most labors. Some people believe that the quicker something can be achieved the more advantageous it is perceived to be- whether this is making a cup of instant coffee, washing the laundry or sending a communication. In our society time is money and quick delivery of a baby is a preferred option.

(c) A caesarean is perceived as pain-free. The operation is carried out under anesthetic and therefore there are no pains of labour to be endured. The “wake me up when it’s all over” scenario appeals to some women.

(d) A caesarean is clinical – and therein perhaps lies its biggest attraction. Planned caesarean birth avoids the necessity for the many probing of the vagina, which have become routine during what is termed ‘normal’ birth today. A woman can more easily maintain a degree of professionalism and detachment in her relationship with her careers since the private areas of her body are left unmolested and unsullied.

Source: Caesarean Birth/VBAC Information, Gina Lowdon and Debbie Chippington Derrick

Remember: Christmas is About Giving

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Christmas

“Christmas is for those who are well off. For us, we stay in our suffering”– says beggars in Kampala, Uganda.

He is called Samson Kyolaba, seven years old. He was born and raised on streets and baptized Samson by his own mother, who probably wished his son to be like the biblical Samson, a strong and admirable guy. I encountered him on Luwum Street very early in the morning. He was dressed in wet cloths and is suffering from a vicious shiver, a sign that he had been hit by an over night torrential storm.

The shiver seems to have been so acute that it cannot even allow Kyolaba to effectively raise his hand and do the duty he lives for- begging every by passer. I placed a five hundred coin in his left hand, which slid through his fingers almost immediately. Looking at Kyolaba and the other kids surrounding him on the verandah, you wonder whether things like Christmas really make sense to them.

To Kyolaba and many other kids bred and raised in dehumanizing conditions of Kampala streets, celebrating Christmas is really a ‘waste of time’ and a not-so familiar vocabulary to their ears. In fact, to them Christmas holiday has been marked as a ‘dark period’ where scarcity and starvation abound.

“Mubisera bya sekukkulu abantu tebagaba ssente-during Christmas period people do not part with their money,” says Kyolaba who has his entire family of two young sisters and mother living on streets.

Betty Akullo seated on Kampala road near Diamond Trust with her two-year-old daughter is another of the beggars. Although Akullo’s daughter has mastered the art of begging more accurately and cunningly than her mother, her day’s collection is not enough to see them through a ‘dry spell’-Christmas, leave alone enjoying it.

Akullo says that Christmas is a memory of the past. She only remembers to have celebrated it during her early child hood. And now she has to plan on how to get what to eat and survive on streets by begging. But how would Akullo wish to celebrate Christmas if she were well off?

“I would like to eat goats meat and rice on a Christmas day,” she says with her face billowing to reveal a far off smile.

Like Akullo, physically handicapped Losio Ssebugwawo, 53, who operates along Luwum Street would wish to have a Merry Christmas. For the past two years, Ssebugwawo a staunch catholic has woken up every morning to his duty of begging with hope that he will make enough money and have the luxury of celebrating Christmas with his family back in Butambala, in Masaka district. But that has not come yet in his last three years of begging.

“This year I have only saved ten thousand shillings, which can not be enough for my transport back home and buy some meat for the children,” says Ssebugwawo as he counts on his rosary.

But it is amazing how inequality exists in every human setting! Unlike Akullo and others, Ssebugwawo looks quite clean and modern. He is smartly dressed with a well-kept beard and dyed hair in addition to having a clean handkerchief to wipe off a stream of sweat running down his fat cheeks.

For Abas Steven Kabuye, a former cancer victim, begging is like any other work, which should fetch enough money to allow one enjoy Christmas. In fact, at his stages of operation at both Luwum and William streets, boda boda cyclists call him ‘uncle millionaire’.

“Uncle Millionaire olusi a tuyamba ne change we mitwallo ettano-uncle millionaire some times helps us with change even for fifty thousand notes,” said one boda boda cyclists at Luwum street.

Kabuye, who crawls on his arms and knees after both of his legs were amputated due to cancer, says that Id El Fitr is better than Christmas because Muslims normally donate to fellow Muslim destitutes, probably the reason he has adopted both Christian and Moslem names-Abas Stephen Kabuye.

On how he plans to celebrate Christmas, Kabuye formerly a farmer in Luwero District contemplates for seconds, then; “I will buy some clothes in Owino for my children and take two chickens for my two wives” he says affording a smile.

For Apollo Kenyi who looks to be a new kid in the world of begging, and operates at Kafumbe Mukasa and Kisenyi market, Christmas is a continuation of his misery.

“Sekukkulu yabalina wo mwana. Ffe tusigala tubonabona– Christmas is for those who are well off. For us, we stay in our suffering,” says Kenyi as he limps on improvised clutches, gathering his entire belongings of a broken basin, a dirty five litre Jeri can and a two-inch mattress that seems to have gained another inch from collecting dirt.

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