The Uganda Museum - Display of Cultural Heritage

Uganda tourism industry continues to celebrate the stay of the Uganda museum, however as Ugandans do this, they ought to reflect on why museums are important and deserve celebration. Globally, museums are a source of cultural knowledge of a given people in a given period. Often, it is not only the collection of arts in the museum that count, but the historic or cultural significance of the buildings within which they are hosted. A museum gives a country character and is a sign that the people of a country are cultured, value and respect their heritage, and are willing to learn from it.

Ahead in wisdom and intellectual capacity over his predecessor by miles, the new Minister for Tourism, Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, finally told the public what was an open secret in the corridors of the tourism ministry; that the museum will stay. Besides, the acting Principal Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Mr James Byenjeru, who presented an affidavit to the High Court in Kampala, said the planned complex that is to house the tourism ministry will instead be constructed near the museum.

"I know that the government intends to construct the East African Trade Centre next to the building housing the museum and as such does not intend to demolish the Uganda Museum", said Mr Byenjeru. He also added that the Uganda government intends to expand the museum from the current 600 sq meters to 1,400 sq meters and the old structure will be preserved in the new structure and modernized with more displays of culture.

A while ago, the former tourism minister had insisted on plans to build a Trade Centre of 60 floors on the grounds of the National Museum, irrespective of the fact that the museum is a place of unique historical value for Ugandans and for Uganda. However, Tourism stakeholders breathed a sigh of relief when Gen. Otafire was moved to the Ministry of Justice, which move left the legal fraternity in stitches, and warmly welcomed Hon Prof. Ephraim, the "gentleman Minister" - as another stakeholder. Prof. Ephraim previously worked as the Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Industry.

"Our new minister is speaking on crucial issues like he was one of us", commented one of the Uganda safari operators, showing that Prof. Ephraim's hard work during the first few months in the Tourism office is beginning to pay off and earning him the respect of the tourism fraternity.

The Uganda National Museum is located in Kampala, and it is where Uganda's natural history, traditional past, and ethnological collections of Ugandan culture is exhibited and displayed. Some of these collections do include; hunting equipment, musical instruments, archaeology, and entomology. The Uganda national museum was founded in 1908 when George Wilson called for "all articles of interest" on Uganda to be procured.

The largest general collections in Uganda, can be found at Makerere University's main library in Kampala while all most important specialized collections in Kampala are in the Albert Cook Library at Makerere Medical School (Makerere University), Kyambogo Univeristy and in the Cabinet office.

Above all the museum is not only a building, but it is also a history and a country's history. Therefore, demolishing the museum is a total destruction of Uganda's soul - for, a country without a history, is a country without a soul.

Uganda Museum and city tours, Uganda Tourism Industry

Article Source: Quentin_Benard

 

Tweeting in East Africa

Uganda and Rwanda safaris are not often thought of in an ornithological context, however, a new website - Birding Uganda - has just been launched in Uganda, which spells good news for twitchers and will hopefully uncover a whole new world of discovery for anyone with an ounce of enthusiasm for birds.

Uganda or Rwanda safaris should always include a spot of bird watching. Uganda for example, has over 1,000 species, making it one of the richest birding destinations in Africa. Rwanda is not far behind and Nyungwe Forest - one of the largest protected high altitude forests on the continent - is a birder's paradise, with avian highlights such as the rare and stunning Sunbirds and the black and white casqued Hornbill, not to mention all its Albertine Rift endemics.

Just about anywhere in either country is bound to abound with birds, even within the hustle and bustle of Kampala and Kigali; in fact, in Kampala alone, you can expect to see close to 300 different species.

Uganda's'Big 5 Bird Species' include:

• Shoebill - a prehistoric, rarely seen bird, which looks rather like a cross between a pelican and a stork. Preferred habitat: swamps

• African Green Broadbill - this beautiful bird is endemic to the Albertine Rift, and has occasionally been spotted in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Its call is a high-pitched hissing rhythmical series that sound like sii-sii-sii-siiiiiii...

• Green-breasted Pitta - most likely to be spotted at dawn or dusk, this is a shiny bird that prefers to inhabit forests.

• African Finfoot - These birds are water birds, although they spend much of their time on riverbanks. African Finfoots have distinctive red bills.

• Great Blue Turaco - Turacos can be seen in urban and rural settings and are distinctive for their 'lipstick' beaks and vivid blue bodies.

So, if you are planning some Uganda or Rwanda safaris, make sure to include some birding... and here are a few tips if you do!

• Try to remember as many bird calls as possible and listen out for birdsong

• Keep a record of field notes

• Stay well away from nesting sites and roosts and keep habitat disturbance in general to a minimum

• Never approach too closely and keep sight times to a minimum with rare and endangered birds

• Take notes and sketches and buy a good field guide

• And of course, ALL budding birdwatchers should invest in a good pair of binoculars!

Don't forget of course that on any trip to Uganda or Rwanda, it's not only about the birds... You will also find a large supporting cast of mammals, including the big cats, elephants, giraffes, hippos and warthogs, as well as an abundance of primates. In fact Uganda and Rwanda safaris are best known for their jungle excursions to the mountain gorillas' habitats or a trek through entwined vines, bush and bamboo to the forested refuges of the Chimpanzees. But either way, don't forget to save some space on your itinerary for our two-winged friends; you won't be disappointed...

For More Information Visit Rwanda safaris

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Bregar

 

The Lap Of Comfort And Tranquility In Uganda

Uganda is a flamboyant country that is gleaming with agglomeration of picturesque landscapes and the unforgettable experiences of Big 5 safari tours and fascinating gorilla trekking. Situated in the heart of Africa the place is gaining much fame day by day as it is still unspoilt and is the home of many hidden spots, yet to be discovered. Ranging from the Mountains of the Moon to the amazing Bwindi forests, this charming destination has all, a traveller can wish for and that's why it compels thousands of tourists each year to take cheap flights to Entebbe to have a bird's eye view of the magnificence and the grandeur of the country. Make your holidays more luxurious and special by staying at the most sparkling resorts which undoubtedly act as the oasis of relaxation and tranquility.

Kampala Serena: The grand Serena hotel is located in the heart of the metropolis and is surrounded by bewitching and awe-inspiring lake views and many other landscapes. This world-class sensational building which previously served as a small 65-room governmental hotel, is now modernized into a totally different architecture with a breathtaking decor and is just on a drive of 40 minutes from the airport of Entebbe. The hotel boasts of unlimited facilities- pop into the lush green gardens that are spreaded over the land of about 17 acres or just dine and wine in three most enchanting restaurants that offers mouth watering and dainty cuisines or just stroll towards the 'The Mist' bar along the poolside for quenching your thirst.

If you are looking for an area where you can sooth your nerves and can unwind, just head towards the relaxation providing spas. You will be mesmerized to see the signature of this great building which is splashing waterfall elevated at the height of 7 metres and plunge down into a pool from stone hill. The hotel provides 152 rooms, fitted with air conditioner and has en-suite bathrooms. Kampala Serena is undoubtedly the one to die for so don't miss the chance of staying here.

Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge: Are you looking for gorillas? Just stay at Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge that guarantees you their sight and is considered to be an eco friendly environment located on the border of Bwindi National Park. It comprises ten beautiful cottages that are made of volcanic stones and are adorned with multi colours lines and elegant furnishings. It is in close vicinity to the entrance of the park from where you can start gorilla trekking one of the best and unique experience of your life.

Ishasha wilderness Camp: Get ready for a rustic and remote treat in the mesmerizing Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is situated on Ntungwe River bank. It is truly an ideal destination for those who want an escape from the hustles and bustles of life, and want a relaxing stay in the remote area of Africa. It offers ten luxurious tents having en-suite bathrooms with bush showers and there is an eye-catchy turquoise and azure water pool encircled with deck chairs. The best time is the dark time when the area glow with the roaring fires and the enthusiastic travellers tell the thrilling stories of their interesting adventures and excursions.

cheap flights to Uganda
cheap flights to Entebbe

Article Source: Eva_Benz