Located in north western Uganda. Arua is an important local commercial centre, it is a base for a large refugee population from Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo and is an aid distribution centre for those nations. It is located nearly 520 kilometres by road, northwest of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. Capital of the former West Nile province, however, it was broken up in the 1970s into Arua, Nebbi and Moyo districts, Arua town became the capital of Arua District.
The dominant tribe in Arua District is the Lugbara, who are divided up into the different dialects of Vurra who come from Vurra County, Ayivu who are from Ayivu County, Madi who are from Madi-Okollo County. It should be noted that the Madi from Madi-Okollo have a variant dialect from those in Moyo District and Adjumani District.
Arua is an important base for NGOs working in the West Nile region or serving Western Equatoria in Sudan or northeastern Congo DRC. It has become increasingly important as a commercial supply centre and transport route as the Yei–Juba road has opened up and supplies come into Juba from the south rather than through Khartoum.
A branch of the Ugandan Railways was extended to Arua sometime after 1964.There are also many coach lines that run to Kampala and back. - Gaa-Gaa - Nile Coach - Post Bus These are just a few of the coach lines that offer transport to the capital Kampala, from Arua.
The 2002 national census estimated the population of Arua town at 43,929. In 2008, the Uganda Bureau of Statistics estimated the population of the town to be 53,600.
The writer is an author of the some of the tourism articles of Safaris Uganda
Friday, May 14, 2010
Sunday, May 2, 2010
The Limit in Uganda is Queen Elizabeth National park
This is one of the outstanding treasures of Uganda and has been for Humanity under UNESCO auspices.The park, in the Western arm of the Great East African Rift Valley,covers1,978sqkmand includes a remarkably eco-systems,from semi-deciduous tropical forest to green meadows,Savannah and swamps.It is the home of the famous tree-climbing lion as well as the Uganda kob, other antelope species, elephant,buffalo, hippos, baboons and chimpanzees. Over 500species of birds have recorded,making it a magnet for bird-watchers.
They include the shoe bill stock,the black bee-eater,11types of kingfisher,and several species of falcons,eagles and other raptors. In the crater lakes to the north,spectacular flocks of flamingos congregate,creating the impression of a vast, pink carpet. The launch trip along Kazinga George and Edward is a memorable way to view the game
They include the shoe bill stock,the black bee-eater,11types of kingfisher,and several species of falcons,eagles and other raptors. In the crater lakes to the north,spectacular flocks of flamingos congregate,creating the impression of a vast, pink carpet. The launch trip along Kazinga George and Edward is a memorable way to view the game
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Neem Tree Uganda's Miracle Trees
This tree belongs to the Mahogany family and native to South Asia. It’s been proven by that is has medicinal and pesticide properties. In India the tree has been relied upon for centuries as a medicinal plant, variously known as “Divine Tree”, “Heal All”, “Nature’s Drugstore”, and “Village Pharmacy”. In Kenya it has been dubbed “arobaini”, because it cures “40” diseases. The neem tree is toxic to insects, the traditional herbalists and scientists from around the world have used their knowledge about plants’ natural deference to identify and develop pesticides.
Various parts of the Neem tree are extracted ranging from leaves, flowers, bark, and oil from the seeds each of which contain one or more of a complex range of active ingredients. Because the active ingredients in Neem have very complex molecular structures, it is not feasible to manufacture them synthetically.
In Uganda its used as natural pesticide by small scale organic, its also grown by organic farmers as a bio pesticides on farm to reduce pest predation of their crops. The farmers pound and soak Neem tree leaves for a night and then spray over their crops the following day.
Neem oil is extracted from the seed, contains quite a different combination of chemicals, and works rather differently. Neem-oil products are reportedly effective against aphids, white flies, scale crawlers, and spider mites, It can also be used in the house as a be used as a household pesticide for ant, bedbug, cockroach, housefly, sand fly, snail, termite and mosquitoes both as repellent and larvicide.
It is claimed that only the insects that feed on plant tissues actually succumb. Those that feed on nectar (butterflies, bees, etc) or other insects (such as spiders, and ladybirds) tend to survive. Thus some promote Neem as a ‘selective’ bio pesticide that gets the bad guys, while saving the ‘good guys’ (depending on your view of spiders!). However, larvae (including caterpillars) are highly susceptible so it’s not all perfect.
The Neem tree is natural and non-toxic to mammals,therefore can be used in organic crops, and indoors, and quickly breaks down in the environment posing no long term toxicity problems - though on the other hand this means it must be reapplied regularly to retain effectiveness.
To the human’s it’s a medicine remedy, particularly prescribed for skin conditions such as acne eczema, and fungal infections, typically through inclusion of Neem Oil in cosmetics such as soaps, shampoo, balms, creams. It can also be used as an antithetical (treating intestinal worms) through drinking of a rather bitter ‘tea’ made with bark and/or leaves. Some claim that it also treats head lice, and scabies, viruses and infertility. Neem twigs have for long been used for brushing teeth in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, representing perhaps one of the earliest and most effective forms of dental care. Today, Neem oil is included in some toothpastes.
It thrives in most parts of Uganda, and is noted for its tolerance of a wide range of soils, and its drought resistance. It will grow in full sun to partial shade, growing best in a well-drained soil mix, with some sand. It is fast growing and typically reaches a height of 15-20m. With white and fragrant flowers, and a yellowish-white fruit, Neem has been widely planted in gardens around the tropics (Uganda being no exception), often solely for its ‘ornamental’ and ‘curiosity’ value and never being used.
Various parts of the Neem tree are extracted ranging from leaves, flowers, bark, and oil from the seeds each of which contain one or more of a complex range of active ingredients. Because the active ingredients in Neem have very complex molecular structures, it is not feasible to manufacture them synthetically.
In Uganda its used as natural pesticide by small scale organic, its also grown by organic farmers as a bio pesticides on farm to reduce pest predation of their crops. The farmers pound and soak Neem tree leaves for a night and then spray over their crops the following day.
Neem oil is extracted from the seed, contains quite a different combination of chemicals, and works rather differently. Neem-oil products are reportedly effective against aphids, white flies, scale crawlers, and spider mites, It can also be used in the house as a be used as a household pesticide for ant, bedbug, cockroach, housefly, sand fly, snail, termite and mosquitoes both as repellent and larvicide.
It is claimed that only the insects that feed on plant tissues actually succumb. Those that feed on nectar (butterflies, bees, etc) or other insects (such as spiders, and ladybirds) tend to survive. Thus some promote Neem as a ‘selective’ bio pesticide that gets the bad guys, while saving the ‘good guys’ (depending on your view of spiders!). However, larvae (including caterpillars) are highly susceptible so it’s not all perfect.
The Neem tree is natural and non-toxic to mammals,therefore can be used in organic crops, and indoors, and quickly breaks down in the environment posing no long term toxicity problems - though on the other hand this means it must be reapplied regularly to retain effectiveness.
To the human’s it’s a medicine remedy, particularly prescribed for skin conditions such as acne eczema, and fungal infections, typically through inclusion of Neem Oil in cosmetics such as soaps, shampoo, balms, creams. It can also be used as an antithetical (treating intestinal worms) through drinking of a rather bitter ‘tea’ made with bark and/or leaves. Some claim that it also treats head lice, and scabies, viruses and infertility. Neem twigs have for long been used for brushing teeth in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, representing perhaps one of the earliest and most effective forms of dental care. Today, Neem oil is included in some toothpastes.
It thrives in most parts of Uganda, and is noted for its tolerance of a wide range of soils, and its drought resistance. It will grow in full sun to partial shade, growing best in a well-drained soil mix, with some sand. It is fast growing and typically reaches a height of 15-20m. With white and fragrant flowers, and a yellowish-white fruit, Neem has been widely planted in gardens around the tropics (Uganda being no exception), often solely for its ‘ornamental’ and ‘curiosity’ value and never being used.
Friday, April 9, 2010
The Early Inhabitants Of Uganda
The early inhabitants of what is now Uganda came under the influence of the Egyptian civilization around 3500 years ago. Powerful kingdoms then emerged, warring tribes, the principles ones being the Banyoro Kitara and Baganda.
The first Europeans to enter the territory were the British explorer John Speke, in 1862, who was responsible for identifying the source of the Nile. Anglican missionaries followed in his awake. The British established a protectorate in 1894 and British administration continued until the country was given independence in 1962.
Milton Obote became the Prime Minister, but factional in-fighting flared and a few years later Obote outlawed opposition, declared a republic and became a president, Major General Idi Amin led Uganda through its darkest years when he seized power in 1971, ruling with tyrannical force. He was ousted in 1979 and after three short term presidents, Obote returned from exile to power in 1980. real peace was not to return, however until the accession of president Museveni, who brought about a gradual process of ethnic reconciliation
This therefore has brought me the development of a number of industries and increased number of tourism activities in the country due to the presence of good security.
The first Europeans to enter the territory were the British explorer John Speke, in 1862, who was responsible for identifying the source of the Nile. Anglican missionaries followed in his awake. The British established a protectorate in 1894 and British administration continued until the country was given independence in 1962.
Milton Obote became the Prime Minister, but factional in-fighting flared and a few years later Obote outlawed opposition, declared a republic and became a president, Major General Idi Amin led Uganda through its darkest years when he seized power in 1971, ruling with tyrannical force. He was ousted in 1979 and after three short term presidents, Obote returned from exile to power in 1980. real peace was not to return, however until the accession of president Museveni, who brought about a gradual process of ethnic reconciliation
This therefore has brought me the development of a number of industries and increased number of tourism activities in the country due to the presence of good security.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Hunting in the National Parks
Our Tourist Attraction Search offers the most advanced way to find the best Uganda tourist spots from all around the world. Search by destination, price range, rating, and hours of operation.With our Uganda tourist guide you can find tourist information and fun things to do on vacation while browsing the Uganda tourist sites by category or location.
UGANDA has been allowed to introduce leopard hunting as a sport. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) approved a proposal by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Ministry of Trade to partially lift a ban on leopard hunting. The country can now kill a maximum of 28 leopards annually. "For the exclusive purpose of sport hunting for trophies and skins for personal use," the proposal read. The organization grades animals and plants according to the degree of protection they need. Appendix one covers species threatened with extinction. According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, Uganda has a total of 2,700 leopards. Its executive director, Sam Mwandha, said the hunting sport would benefit the country. Each trophy hunter would be required to pay $50,000 (sh83m) per leopard killed.
Ugandan citizens may not be interested in the sport, especially with the cost, but we are expecting a lot of foreigners. It is easier to regulate the number of leopards hunted because trophy hunters want to show off their prizes. According to a survey carried out in Kiruhura district by the Lake Mburo Conservation Area Problem Animal Unit, nine leopards were killed between 2003 to March 2006.
However Sport hunting will make leopards more valuable than being poisoned or killed. It will also generate tangible economic benefits that will motivate local people to protect them instead of regarding them as vermin. Other conservationist criticized the move, arguing that CITES approved the proposal without ascertaining the population of the leopards in the country.
UGANDA has been allowed to introduce leopard hunting as a sport. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) approved a proposal by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Ministry of Trade to partially lift a ban on leopard hunting. The country can now kill a maximum of 28 leopards annually. "For the exclusive purpose of sport hunting for trophies and skins for personal use," the proposal read. The organization grades animals and plants according to the degree of protection they need. Appendix one covers species threatened with extinction. According to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, Uganda has a total of 2,700 leopards. Its executive director, Sam Mwandha, said the hunting sport would benefit the country. Each trophy hunter would be required to pay $50,000 (sh83m) per leopard killed.
Ugandan citizens may not be interested in the sport, especially with the cost, but we are expecting a lot of foreigners. It is easier to regulate the number of leopards hunted because trophy hunters want to show off their prizes. According to a survey carried out in Kiruhura district by the Lake Mburo Conservation Area Problem Animal Unit, nine leopards were killed between 2003 to March 2006.
However Sport hunting will make leopards more valuable than being poisoned or killed. It will also generate tangible economic benefits that will motivate local people to protect them instead of regarding them as vermin. Other conservationist criticized the move, arguing that CITES approved the proposal without ascertaining the population of the leopards in the country.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Uganda Accommodation with Emphasis in Soroti Town
There are a number of interesting accommodations around this town.
Soroti Hotel This is the towns premiere hotel recently renovated 1km from town.
Self-contained doubles, twins. Although this is one of the biggest Hotels in Soroti that was built in the colonial days with a lot of facilities; there is barely any information about it
Golden Ark Hotel: Newly constructed in 2006 located along the Mbale - Soroti road. Construction is on going with expansion taking place. 20 rooms are currently available for guests. The hotel has spacious rooms all with DSTV, an Internet café, conference hall, bar and restaurant; with different room types Deluxe single,Deluxe double,Executive rooms
Executive twins, King Room and Family suite .All rates include bed and breakfast.
Landmark Inn: Located at Plot 29/31 Solot Avenue .For those wanting to stay in town and camp in the garden of this colonial house. The Inn Specializes in East Indian Asian cuisine with a very comprehensive menu. Landmark Hotel Services include a bar and restaurant offering international and local dishes, conference facilities, laundry services, Internet cafe, 32 self contained rooms with wireless Internet connectivity. Types of rooms: - Deluxe room
Deluxe Twin room and Queen. All our rates include bed/breakfast and Local Hotel Tax.
Starlight Guest House: Located on Oculoi road 1.5kms from soroti town along the Soroti - Lira road. Bed and breakfast Spacious and clean rooms with 14 rooms all self- contained, Executive, and single
Soko Motel: Located along Oculoi road with a bar and restaurant.
11 rooms with both self-contained and none self-contained rooms
San Marino Guest House: Located 1.5kms from Soroti town along the Lira road with a bar and restaurant. 5 rooms all self-contained, Single/double and Deluxe suite
Ted Wills Guest House: Located 2kms along the Soroti – Lira road, bar and restaurant and shuttle bus to transport guests to town. Accommodation on a bed only basis, 21 rooms self-contained and none self-contained.
Soroti Hotel This is the towns premiere hotel recently renovated 1km from town.
Self-contained doubles, twins. Although this is one of the biggest Hotels in Soroti that was built in the colonial days with a lot of facilities; there is barely any information about it
Golden Ark Hotel: Newly constructed in 2006 located along the Mbale - Soroti road. Construction is on going with expansion taking place. 20 rooms are currently available for guests. The hotel has spacious rooms all with DSTV, an Internet café, conference hall, bar and restaurant; with different room types Deluxe single,Deluxe double,Executive rooms
Executive twins, King Room and Family suite .All rates include bed and breakfast.
Landmark Inn: Located at Plot 29/31 Solot Avenue .For those wanting to stay in town and camp in the garden of this colonial house. The Inn Specializes in East Indian Asian cuisine with a very comprehensive menu. Landmark Hotel Services include a bar and restaurant offering international and local dishes, conference facilities, laundry services, Internet cafe, 32 self contained rooms with wireless Internet connectivity. Types of rooms: - Deluxe room
Deluxe Twin room and Queen. All our rates include bed/breakfast and Local Hotel Tax.
Starlight Guest House: Located on Oculoi road 1.5kms from soroti town along the Soroti - Lira road. Bed and breakfast Spacious and clean rooms with 14 rooms all self- contained, Executive, and single
Soko Motel: Located along Oculoi road with a bar and restaurant.
11 rooms with both self-contained and none self-contained rooms
San Marino Guest House: Located 1.5kms from Soroti town along the Lira road with a bar and restaurant. 5 rooms all self-contained, Single/double and Deluxe suite
Ted Wills Guest House: Located 2kms along the Soroti – Lira road, bar and restaurant and shuttle bus to transport guests to town. Accommodation on a bed only basis, 21 rooms self-contained and none self-contained.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The Caves under Mount Elgon
Located in the boarder of Kenya and Uganda, the ancient extinct volcano is penetrated by a suite of highly-unusual caves. These caves are neither limestone solution caves, nor lava tubes. There origin lies in the interplay of unique geology with the fauna – elephants and other mammals “mine” salt-bearing rock from the walls of the caves, extending then hundreds of meters into the mountain. The cave has a number of trees and plants that are not only edible but also medicinal.
The cave in Mount Elgon has stones well arranged in form of a conference room; it is said that during the regime of President Idd Amin Dada in the 1970’s; he help a cabinet meeting in this place. There is also a very dark tunnel that links Uganda to Kenya, however it seems like no one has ever been successful crossing through. Many skeletons have been found in this cave.
The cave in Mount Elgon has stones well arranged in form of a conference room; it is said that during the regime of President Idd Amin Dada in the 1970’s; he held a cabinet meeting in this place. There is also a very dark tunnel that links Uganda to Kenya, however it seems like no one has ever been successful crossing through. Many skeletons have been found in this cave.
The cave in Mount Elgon has stones well arranged in form of a conference room; it is said that during the regime of President Idd Amin Dada in the 1970’s; he help a cabinet meeting in this place. There is also a very dark tunnel that links Uganda to Kenya, however it seems like no one has ever been successful crossing through. Many skeletons have been found in this cave.
The cave in Mount Elgon has stones well arranged in form of a conference room; it is said that during the regime of President Idd Amin Dada in the 1970’s; he held a cabinet meeting in this place. There is also a very dark tunnel that links Uganda to Kenya, however it seems like no one has ever been successful crossing through. Many skeletons have been found in this cave.
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