Statistically, Ugandans are one of the heaviest drinking African nations. If you’ve ever tasted Ugandan Waragi from a plastic sachet, or the interestingly named ‘Legitimate Whisky’, you would think they were mad. Thankfully they brew a drinkable beer… though I must say I’m always confused why I’m presented with the question “Would you like it cold?” every time I order one. “No thanks, I’ll have the one you left in the sun over there” said no one ever.
One of our neighbours in Luteete
Now on my third visit (and dozens of faux pas later) I feel like I’m finally getting the hang of the culture here in Uganda. This is mainly due to having a plethora of patient Ugandans willing to answer my every query.
Uganda may not be famous for it’s food, especially when the diet for many is a focus on avoiding hunger and not seeking great taste. The food is often starchy and bland, but there are some exceptions to the rule which can be found on the street in most villages. As a bonus, street food is often served in bags made from scrap printer paper. So you can read notes from a village meeting, a segment of some legal proceedings or even someone’s CV as you eat. What’s often even better are the stall names and slogans…
Thanks to our chance meeting with Derrick on the broken down Link bus, our time in Fort Portal has been interesting to say the least. There is nothing like a local with connections in Africa.
Fort Portal is located around 4 hours drive west from Uganda’s capital. It’s an area of natural beauty, gateway to several national parks and the starting point for many gorilla tracking expeditions. Sitting in this peaceful, laid back town, it’s hard to believe that just beyond the mountain range lies the Democratic Republic of Congo, and all its woes.
