KAMPALA BUSINESS TRAVEL GUIDE

BusinessTravel Guide

www.africaoutlookmag.com

Kampala

The Pearl of Africa

K A M P A L A

FACTS & FIGURES

Country: Languages: Area:

Uganda English, Swahili 189 square kilometres

Population (2014): 1.5 million Currency: Uganda shilling (UGX)

ffectionately referred to as “the city that never sleeps” and - more recognisably - “the pearl of Africa”, Kampala’s rise to not just continental prominence, but to global recognition has been as rapid as it has been deserved; and Uganda can now look forward to leveraging its capital’s reputation in its quest for economic growth in the future.

As the country’s largest city, Kampala is inevitably expected to serve as a flagship and an example as to what to expect when visiting Uganda,

Time zone: UTC+3 Dialling code: +256 Internet TLD: . .ug Climate: Tropical rainforest

2

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

but - in an exciting, captivating way - all it does is encourage prospective tourists and business travellers to expect the unexpected.

As The Guardian correctly illustrated in May, 2016, “Kampala is a city constantly being built and rebuilt. Its skyline is constantly changing. If you spent four months away, on your return you will almost feel like a tourist in your own city”.

Epitomising the notion, Kampala was named the 13th fastest growing city on the planet by City Mayors, off the back of an annual population growth rate of more than four percent. Simultaneous

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

accolades include being ranked the best city to live in East Africa by New York consulting agency, Mercer; the best travel destination by Lonely Planet in 2012; one of the 20 must-see destinations by National Geographic in 2013, and the fifth best destination in the world (Uganda) by CNN earlier this year.

For any global city, such a trophy cabinet would be reason to sit up and take notice, but in a region where ‘emergence’ is more of a recognisable term than ‘established’, Kampala is bucking a trend in bringing the world’s tourism stalwarts and economic

S

T

R

A

V

E

AFRICA

L

heavyweights to its front door.

One of the key reasons for its appeal is the city’s ability to amalgamate this modernisation and this urbanisation without tampering with the aspects that actually typify the area best: its history.

The city initially developed as the capital of the Buganda Kingdom and it is the remnants of this legacy that offer the primary landmarks while visiting Kampala; including the Kasubi Tombs, Lubiri Palace and the Buganda Parliament building.

However, for those destined for more time in a boardroom than on

a tour bus, Kampala has more than geared itself up for the run-of-the-mill, day-to-day requirements as well.

Across areas of accommodation, food & drink, leisure activities, and art and culture, the city has adopted a ‘something for everyone’ approach.

Visit Kampala expresses it best: “Few cities across the African Continent can rival the happy life of Kampala, Some have branded it the “The city that never sleeps”; Kampala is the city where being bored is never an option.

Pay us a visit and see how we shall make your memories here last a lifetime.”

Kampala Unrivalled beauty can be found in Kampala; the city that never sleeps and where memories made will last a lifetime Writer: Matthew Staff | Project Manager: Ryan Gray

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

3

K A M P A L A

The Business End INEVITABLY, EVOLVING AT such speed comes with its challenges from an infrastructural perspective, but the offshoots have for the most part been positive.

Numerous industries have been forced to adapt and to expand in order to cope with the rising interest in the city, and once their gambles are repaid, they can then reinvest in even more concerted development; ultimately generating an evolutionary cycle conducive to sustainable stability.

For sectors across hospitality, food & drink, retail and leisure, the advantages are obvious and the clientele is forthcoming from all corners of both Uganda and overseas, but perhaps more importantly is the country’s

4

ability to renovate more traditional industries integral to the overall prosperity of Uganda.

Efforts have been underway for the past few years to relocate its heavy industry to the Kampala Business and Industrial Park just outside of the city centre, capitalising on the manufacturing, construction, mining and logistics potential within the country. And then, as you edge nearer to Kampala’s core, then realms of finance, technology, travel and the services become more prevalent.

And then of course comes the SME segment of the market that, perhaps more than anyone, is benefiting from the influx of business travellers and tourists. Numerous start-ups, small

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

business owners and indigenous markets serve as an indictment of the Ugandan culture people are enjoying so much at present, while also providing a nearby, immediate respite from office blocks and meetings that might dominate your core activities during your trip.

Arguably though, the most significant sector, and biggest beneficiary of all is the hospitality domain. Hotels, hostels, lodges, apartments and Airbnb are now locked in a tussle for business where almost no-one can lose; and no other snapshot sums up Kampala’s development better than that, as the Uganda Hotel Owners Association explains.

Let our Family Take Care of You Our Family Welcomes You to Africa!

When it comes to a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Africa, you deserve to be treated like family. Our expert guides are comfort, safety and hospitality specialists.

At Home to Africa, our mission is to provide you with a flawless vacation. So, prepare yourself for a journey of discovery and the kind of generosity you expect from those who truly care about you.

Come Home To Africa and let us share with you this land we love so deeply. We know you will love it too!

Home To Africa also welcomes other socially aware Tour Operators to work with us and together, grow both our families.

Book NOW Mobile: +256-774872185 Office: +256-414692378 tour@hometoafrica.com www.hometoafrica.com Home To Africa Tours And Travel P.O Box 6970, Kampala, Uganda

K A M P A L A

Kampala Hotel Owners Association

Welcome to Uganda

Writer: Susan Muhwezi, Chairlady, Uganda Hotel Owners Association

I AM VERY HONOURED to write this foreword introducing the Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA) to the readership of Africa Outlook.

In this month’s edition Africa outlook is shining a light on the tourism and travel business industry in Kampala.

This couldn’t have come at a better time when Uganda is basking in the glory of international accolades from being named the best travel destination by Lonely Planet magazine in 2012 as well as one of the 20 mustsee destinations of 2013 by National Geographic magazine. This year in 2017, CNN named Uganda as the fifth best

destination in the World.

The beauty of Uganda is unrivalled and it’s no wonder that Sir Winston Churchill named it the “Pearl of Africa”.

Kampala is the heart of Uganda, the capital city and the centre of business industry. Kampala is also a key tourism destination in Uganda. It is one of the safest cities in Africa, as well as the nightlife capital of East Africa. Kampala is blessed with a host of five-star hotels as well as five-star restaurants. Guests to Kampala will enjoy our natural and organic cuisine in any of our five-star establishments or they could choose to enjoy our famous “Rolex” street food.

6

WWW.ASIAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Kampala is a city that is very welcoming.

Ugandans are the friendliest people on the African continent.

I have no doubt that the readers of Africa Outlook will be very impressed by what we have to offer as a tourism and business destination.

We are very honoured to have the opportunity to showcase our beautiful country and town to the readers of Africa Outlook. We have beautiful five-star hotels that are ready to cater to all travellers of different tastes, preferences and budgets.

We are ready to welcome you all!! Karibu.

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

A

V

E

L

AFRICA

Uganda Hotel Owners Association Writer: Jean Byamugisha, Executive Director, Uganda Hotel Owners Association I AM VERY HONOURED and pleased to introduce the Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA) to the Africa Outlook business readership community.

The UHOA is the only private sector association for the Hotel Sector in Uganda. With more than 450 member hotels spread across the country, UHOA is the strongest private sector association in Uganda’s Tourism industry. The key reason UHOA is important is our ability to bring together the biggest

tax payers and employers in the tourism industry.

UHOA is honoured to partner with Africa Outlook magazine in this editorial feature on Kampala City.

Kampala is the home to most of the hotels in Uganda and the host to most of the major international conferences and events in Uganda.

Kampala is also the melting pot of Uganda with a variety of different foods and cultures all meeting in one spot.

UHOA is indeed honoured to

share in the spotlight shined on Kampala in this edition. We are ready to welcome the world to our beautiful city. We have all types of accommodation to fit all tastes and preferences, all complemented by our excellent weather, organic cuisine as well as some of the friendliest and most beautiful people on the African continent.

Make a date with us. Come and visit Kampala. Karibu!!

WWW.ASIAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

7

K A M P A L A

Out & About “IN THE HUSTLE and bustle of Kampala, it is very difficult to find a place to relax. You have to escape to beaches of Entebbe, a town in central Uganda, if you want to relax on the weekend.

But even at the beach there are loud speakers with music that you were likely dancing to a few hours earlier at a club,” the Guardian introduced in a recent article. “Green spaces in Kampala have largely been taken over for construction of bars or malls. So when an initiative to create a green space in Kampala is set up, it should be lauded. Maisha Garden was opened recently by Maisha Film Lab. “Located on Buziga hill overlooking the lake, it features an outdoor cinema, a multipurpose amphitheatre, a nature walk and an open air teaching room.”

8

It is this diversity that is both new and unsettling, but exciting and progressive in equal measure for a country and city still trying to find its identity in the 21st century. A mall can be one person’s unwanted commercialism to another person’s retail paradise, and inevitably these differences in opinion will continue in the future; especially among the local population.

However, for the business travel community, the negatives are few and far between. While ‘westernising’ in terms of capital ventures, it is an expansion of choice for those who have no ‘old Kampala’ to compare it to. A plethora of restaurants and bars - for both high-end and casual ‘budget’ clientele - line the city centre’s streets,

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

and are complemented by dynamic retail outlets at Owino Market and Garden City.

If history, culture and indigenousness are more your thing, then attractions such as The National Museum, the National Theatre, the Kasubi Tombs, its many cathedrals and places of worship, and Parliament House are poignant and splendid in equal measure.

And should you be fortunate enough to take the whole day to explore, then it is advised to ditch city life altogether in preference of the wider area’s natural delights. Safaris in their droves are complemented by innumerable tours and guided adventures to help you get closer to the attractions you’d more typically associate with East Africa.

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

A

V

E

L

AFRICA

Casa Miltu Hotel is a distinguished hotel!

A gorgeous example of architecture that is situated in one of the most serene parts of the city with easy accessibility from the central business district, 3.5 miles from the Uganda National Museum.

Air conditioned rooms | Business Centre Conference Room Facilities | Daily room service Dinning and Bar Facilities | Direct Telephone Restaurant | Safe deposit

Plot 137/139 Ntinda-Nakawa Road, P.O Box 35756 Kampala-Uganda +256-414-288706 | +256-392-943285 | info@casamiltuhotel.co.ug | reservations@casamiltuhotel.co.ug | www.casamiltuhotel.co.ug

Seb Hotel is set in the heart of Kampala The hotel has a sauna and fitness centre, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or a drink at the bar. Free private parking is available on site.

Rooms come with a flat-screen TV. Certain units feature a seating area where you can relax. For your comfort, you will find slippers and free toiletries.

POPULAR FOR GOLFING AND WINDSURFING Seb Hotel Muyenga Road, Kampala, Uganda aronmpoza@gmail.com | T: +256 775 447 029

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

9

K A M P A L A

Outlook Recommends “Kampala is the melting pot of Uganda with a variety of different foods and cultures all meeting in one spot.” - Jean Byamugisha, Executive Director, UHOA

MUSEUMS Uganda Museum

HOSPITALITY

Fairway Hotel

Uganda Hotel Owners Association

Green Hills Hotel

“The Uganda Hotel Owners’ Association (UHOA) is a trade and lobbying organisation that includes almost all of the nation’s hotels, lodges and camps among its members. UHOA sets high standards for its members and those include... from Kampala’s finest five- star property to a more modest guesthouse far away from the capital.

“Uganda has witnessed a vast expansion of its hotel sector and this growth continues at a higher rate in Kampala than in the recent past, but just as energetically outside the city as capacity grows to meet demand.

“Lonely Planet has rated Uganda the world’s top ‘’must see’’ destination for 2012. I am sure this assessment is correct and we, as an industry association, are working hard to live up to Lonely Planet’s star billing.”

10

Holiday Express Hotel Seb Hotel Limited Uganda Kolping Society

Casa Miltu Hotel

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

ART & CULTURE National Theatre

RETAIL Owino Market Garden City

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

“Serving the community since 1969”

A

V

E

L

AFRICA

YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME Enjoy the charm of a boutique hotel in a spacious, secure environment.

Experience the best of Ugandan hospitality with a serene location, comfortable rooms and top restaurants.

Serene and secure ambiance in the heart of Kampala +256 414 259571/4 | booking@fairwayhotel.co.ug | www.fairwayhotel.co.ug

Holiday Express Hotel is one of Uganda’s leading hotels. +256 262 393859 / +256 414 253451 reservations@holidayexpresshotel.com www.holidayexpresshotel.com Plot 16/18/20 Kampala Luwum St, Kampala, Uganda

Its affordability and central location in the heart of Kampala City where all the action begins making it unique.

The Hotel has recently been refurbished and equipped with the latest modern facilities in the business to ensure our CHRISTOPHE KEREBEL My Twitter My Twitter : @chriskere : @chriskere My Twitter : @chriskere customers have a pleasant stay.

We now boast of 59 fully air conditioned rooms with internet connection and 41 sound-proofed deluxe twin and double rooms making a total capacity of 159 beds in 100 rooms.

The hotel also features a recently renovated multimedia business center complete with full internet access, secretarial and fax services.

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

11

K A M P A L A

Outlook recommends NATURE TOURS

Kibale National Park

Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch Home to Africa Tours & Travel “Jambo” (welcome) to one of Uganda’s leading safaris courtesy of the country’s leading wildlife specialists. Renowned for its tailormade tours throughout Uganda and East Africa, the Company’s multilingual guides take you through the Pearl of Africa. “Expect to be enchanted by Uganda,” the Company introduces.

“One moment you are alone, trekking a forest path, when suddenly they appear ahead in a bamboo thicket – a family of mountain gorillas, curiously gazing at you.”

Mabira Forest

Lake Mburo National Park Africa Adventures Safari Prime Safaris

12

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

A

V

E

AFRICA

L

COME SEE WHAT A DIFFERENCE A STAY WITH US MAKES…

You can always expect a warm welcome at one of our Green Hills Hotels.

We strive to give comfort and relaxation to our guests, offering a private getaway just fifteen minutes away from the city center.

FOR RESERVATIONS +256 752 605925 / +256 704 761847 info@greenhills-hotel.com www.greenhills-hotel.com

BUKOTO KAMPALA & KABALE

Kampala Kolping Hotel A deluxe 3 star hotel set out on a two acre piece of land strategically located within the heart of the Kampala city surrounded by famous landmarks.

Hoima Kolping Hotel

Masindi Kolping Hotel

Ideally located in the heart of Hoima Municipality, on the highway that leads you to the greatest ventures of Midwestern Uganda.

An exclusive environment where today’s frequent leisure and business travelers can experience a higher standard of accommodation.

Uganda Kolping Hotels Kolping Hotels are well designed and make you feel at home away from home.

For reservations visit our website www.ugandakolpinghotels.com

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

13

K A M P A L A

Transport Links

KAMPALA’S PERIPHERY CANNOT be overstated in terms of its appeal and influence. As well as the aforementioned safaris and natural attractions, your journey to the capital will actually begin around 22 miles away, as you arrive into the city of Entebbe.

It is worth noting that before you arrive, you will need to go through the country’s e-immigration system which requires you to apply through the website and submit your documents before being approved.

Transport between Entebbe and Kampala is simple courtesy of the airport shuttle service, a taxi or even a hotel shuttle if you want a more

14

bespoke door-to-door service.

Within the city itself, transport can be a bit less simple and a bit more like a game of ‘Russian roulette’; especially if you pick the most home-grown mode of travel in the form of their ‘boda bodas’. The motorcycle taxis are a novel and great idea on the face of it; being able to weave your way through the busy streets in a quick and nimble manner. However, there is no accounting for their drivers who will take any shortcut, and adopt any route if it means getting you to your destination quicker.

The anti-dangerous SafeBoda Company has since strived to extend your life expectancy, but if - having

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

witnessed one of these journeys - you’ve been put off the idea altogether, then a matatus might be preferred. Essentially a minibus to you and I, each matatu has a driver and conductor that does ensure your safety along a pre-determined route, but dignity and spatial awareness aren’t included in the price admittedly.

Consequently, option three might be the best way to go. The tried and tested taxi alternative - or Special Hires as they’re known in Kampala - may seem like the obvious choice given the others, but price can be the slight drawback on this front, so be sure to haggle a price before you set off.

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

A

V

E

L

AFRICA

Explore the World with us!

Stay with us at Crystal Lodges Uganda and meet the incomparable local wildlife; an exceptional experience that will stay with you forever!

There is truly no better location from which to explore this vibrant city than from Ivys hotel Kampala.

We encourage our guests to shop, see, dine, explore and take advantage of all that Kampala has to offer.

Ivys Hotel Kampala, Mugalaasi Place, 90-91 Sir Albert Cook Road, Wakaliga, PO Box 14047, Kampala, Uganda T: +256 414 273 664, +256 312 265 482 F: +256 414 270 061 | E: ivys@ivyshotel.co.ug | www.ivyshotel.co.ug

www.crystalsafaris.com crystalsafarisug@gmail.com www.crystallodgesuganda.com reservations@crystallodgesuganda.com

Looking for a gorilla safari in Uganda, Rwanda or Congo?

ROOM RESERVATION

BEST RESTAURANT EXPERIENCE DELICIOUS HEALTHY MEALS

CLEAN LIVING

WE MAKE LUXURY AFFORDABLE Our hotel is an ideal choice for those who want a hotel with a quiet atmosphere, close to business center (Kampala) and offer the best rates.

MARIE’S ROYALE HOTEL www.mariesroyalehotelkampala.com +256.392.176.181

We guarantee you a great gorilla tour with us.

Africa Tours Adventure Ltd. Skype: africatoursadventure Cell/Whatsapp +256782186562.

Email: info@ugandagorillassafari.com www.ugandagorillassafari.com

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

15

C A M K P EP AT LOA W N

Landmark Attractions Mengo Palace

“Built in 1922, this small palace is the former home of the king of Buganda, though it has remained empty since 1966 when Prime Minister Milton Obote ordered a dramatic attack to oust Kabaka Mutesa II, then president of Uganda. The building’s interior cannot be visited, but the notorious underground prison here is open to tours.” - Lonely Planet

Bulange Royal Building

“A great place to learn about the history and culture of the Buganda Kingdom, guided tours take you

Kasubi Tombs

“Situated on a hill within Kampala, the Kasubi Tombs site is an active religious place in the Buganda kingdom. Its place, as the burial ground for the previous four Kabakas, makes it a very important religious centre for the royal family, a place where the Kabaka and his representatives frequently carry out important rituals related to Ganda culture.”

- Kasubi Tombs

16

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

inside the parliament building, providing interesting stories and details about the 56 different clans.” - Lonely Planet

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

A

V

E

L

AFRICA

We guarantee to make your holiday an unforgettable dream & memorable experience!

Well asserted along the Valleys of Ntinda, Arch Apartments offers beautiful scenery, exhibiting a serene atmosphere conducive for all occasions.

Experience the ultimate Uganda Safari adventure across the wildlife plains of the East African National parks. The region has a global reputation as being one of Africa’s biggest home of wildlife.

Email: archapartments@gmail.com Land line: 0392 175 496 / 0772 496 158 / 0757 496 158 www.archapartments.com

Discover Uganda’s Nature Today!

WILDLIFE SAFARIS CULTURAL SAFARIS VOLUNTEER TOURISM ADVENTURE SAFARIS CAR HIRE SERVICES HONEYMOON PACKAGES PRIVATE & JOINT GROUPS

Tel: +256 703 514218 info@yalasafarisuganda.com yalasafarisuganda@gmail.com www.yalasafarisuganda.com

Spacious. Clean. Comfortable.

Hotel Sojovalo enables guests to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre while providing easy access to the heart of Kampala.

Serviced and furnished: - 3 bedroom apartments - 2 bedroom apartments - 1 bedroom apartments - Studio apartments - Virtual offices Amenities - Conference rooms - Training rooms - Ample parking space - Standby generator - Swimming pool - Gym - 24hr CCTV surveillance

We thrive to ensure that your stay with us is as comfortable as possible.

(24hrs) +256 414 271 879 +256 414 271 877 www.hotelsojovalo.com info@hotelsojovalo.com

HOTEL SOJOVALO

Address: Plot 856/854, Rubaga Road, P. O. Box 12034, Kampala, Uganda

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

17

C A M K P EP AT LOA W N

Landmark Attractions Parliament House

“Open to the public, a visit to parliament is an interesting way to spend an hour or two. You can either tour the building, or see the government in action. You need to visit the public relations department (Room 114) to arrange a visit, and make a written request to see question time. Usually you can arrange a visit on the spot.”

- Lonely Planet

Gaddafi National Mosque

“New York has the Statue of Liberty, London has the London Eye, Paris has the Eifel Tower India has the Taj Mahal and Kampala has the Gaddafi National

Uganda Martyr’s Shrine

“This Uganda Martyrs Minor Basilica/ is well known for its beautiful and unique interior and exterior, but it is specially notable for its shape and architectural plan; the 22 copper pillars over 100 feet long that support the shrine built in the form of an African hut and its wooden doors that depict the history of the Martyrs.”

- Uganda Martyrs’ Shrine

18

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

Mosque. Situated on the top of Old Kampala Hill, Gaddafi Mosque is one of the interesting attractions which can be explored by visitors on Uganda safaris to Kampala.” - Prime Safaris

B

U

S

I

N

E

S

S

T

R

A

V

E

AFRICA

L

Katereke Prison

“Located on the outskirts of town, royal prisoners were starved in the prison ditch during the upheavals of 1888–89. Kabaka Kalema killed 30 of his brothers and sisters here in 1889 in his quest to keep control of the throne. It’s not much more than a deep, circular trench, but it’s an evocative site and is worth the trip if you have time.” - Lonely Planet

“ELEGANT YET RELAXED AMBIENCE” Banana Village Eco Resort is the ultimate fusion of traditional African architecture designed to blend completely with its environment, with rooms housed in a series of huts spread along its vast gardens under a canopy of equatorial trees.

Banana Village Eco Resort Off Garuga Road,Entebbe, P.O BOX 67 Kisubi, Wakiso District, Central Uganda - East Africa Tel: +256 772 509692 / 788 432462 WhatsApp: 0755 895 395 Email: bananavillage@hotmail.com www.bananavillageuganda.com

1 day birding

Baha’i Temple

“Completed in January, 1961, the Kampala Baha’i Temple has since received hundreds of visitors. It usually opens daily between 9am and 5pm with a Sunday service at 10.30am. The beautiful grounds offer a wide range of photographic opportunities [as well as] various spots to sit, relax and meditate.” - www. bahai-how-africa.org

for search of the Shoebill and other local birds in the Mabamba Swamp

3 day excursion to Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth or L.Mburo Savannah parks

3 day trekking safari in search of the great apes - Gorillas and Chimps.

Experts in the region for all safari needs.

Get the most out of your business trip to Uganda by combining it with a short safari.

Enter Uganda’s paradise now! info@mamalandsafaris.com www.mamalandsafaris.com

WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM

19

BusinessTravel Guide joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 676

ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com

+44 (0)1603 959 672

www.africaoutlookmag.com