Top six monuments in Kampala

By Lisa Omwandho
 
A monument is a statue, building, or other structure erected to commemorate a famous or notable person or event.

Kampala is a historically rich city with numerous monuments to explore. I was privileged to be invited to a walking tour of Kampala city few weeks back as organized by the Kafunda Kreative for their #KoiKoiUG campaign.

They aim to change the negative image of Uganda one picture at a time. If you love a good selfie, here are the best places to take that one memorable shot-in my opinion.

Independence Monument

Put up to commemorate Uganda gaining independence in 1964, the monument is located opposite the Grand Imperial hotel. It is open 24hours and has a little garden in case you want to have a picnic in its shadow. The sculpture is of a woman in bondage raising a child towards the sky. This is to symbolize Uganda being raised from the chains of colonialism.


Sir Edward Mutesa 1 Monument

Located across the road from the Independence memorial, the statue tells a story of the first president of Uganda who at the time was also the Kabaka. He was the only man in Uganda to hold both titles.

Knighted by the queen herself and trained in British military techniques, the colonialists had hoped to use him to control the people. He led the people of Uganda to independence


War Memorial

Found on Kampala Road and heavily guarded by Ugandan military; this monument commemorates those lost in World War II. Only small groups of people are allowed to enter at once and visitors are urged to maintain decorum while there.


KCCA Katale/ Nakasero Market

Though not exactly monuments, the KCCA Katale (held on Sundays) and Nakasero market are not to be skipped during your walking tour of Kampala city. Perfect for travelers who love to shop and are looking for colourful places to photograph. We found ourselves leaving the market with handfuls of fruits and vegetables that were too fresh to leave behind as well as a few accessories from the Katale.

Hindi temple

The Hindi Temple is open to all visitors during the day. The only requirement is to maintain silence and remove your shoes at the entrance. Here you will be able to see the various Hindu Gods and watch their faithful feed and dress them. Photography is allowed as long as you silence your shutter sound.

The Gaddafi Mosque

Gaddafi National Mosque is located at Kampala Hill in the Old Kampala area of Kampala, Uganda. Completed in 2006, it can hold up to 20,000 visitors at once. From the top of the tower visitors can enjoy views of the whole of Kampala.