Welcome to Min-On’s Music Journey! Today we’re traveling to the Republic of Uganda, located in the heart of East Africa, together with our friends from the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Japan.
Although Uganda lies directly on the equator, its high elevation results in a pleasant climate with an average annual temperature of 24 °C (75 °F). With its comfortable weather, beautiful nature and diverse flora and fauna, the country is a wonderful tourist destination.
🎥Uganda’s Natural Beauty
• Experience the vibrant Nakasero Market in the capital, Kampala
• Go trekking in the great outdoors at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Learn traditional and modern dance across the country
The capital, Kampala
Located on the northern shore of Lake Victoria, Kampala is Uganda’s largest city and its economic, political and cultural center. As Uganda continues economic development, Kampala stands as a symbol of progress.
With a growing population, improving transportation infrastructure is urgent, and the city is filled with “boda-boda” motorcycle taxis darting in every direction.
In Uganda, diverse artists sing songs themed around Kampala. On this journey, we introduce “Kampala” by female singer-songwriter Irene Ntare. Enjoy her heartfelt melody and vocals set against the backdrop of Kampala’s cityscape.
To learn about Uganda’s history and culture, the first stop is the Uganda National Museum. It features extensive exhibits on archaeology and biology. Behind the museum lies a cultural village with traditional huts where you can experience ways of life from the past.
Kampala is also a commercial hub. Acacia Mall and Garden City, home to modern boutiques, are great destinations for everything from shopping and gourmet dining to exciting activities.
For a more authentic local shopping experience, visit Nakasero Market, one of Africa’s largest. The overwhelming crowds and shops and stalls packed tightly together offer a direct taste of Kampala’s vibrant energy.
Magnificent nature and biodiversity
Uganda is predominantly covered in lush, rolling hills, a beauty so striking that British Prime Minister Winston Churchill famously called it “the Pearl of Africa.”
The country boasts many attractions, including Lake Victoria, which straddles three countries (Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania), and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Rwenzori Mountains National Park, where you can see glaciers – a rare sight in Africa.
Rwenzori Mountains National Park is home to over 70 mammal species and 217 bird species (including 19 endemic species), making it significant not only for its landscapes but also for its ecosystems. Also in Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorillas, and trekking through its tropical rainforest is a popular and profound journey.
🎥Exploring Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Ugandan Coffee: Surging in Popularity
Uganda’s music culture
Uganda was formed by the union of several kingdoms centered around the Kingdom of Buganda, resulting in a diverse musical culture that varies by region and ethnic group.
Ugandan Representative Traditional Music and Dance
Uganda’s median age is a very young 16 years old, and its population is characterized by a strong interest in new music. Central to creating this scene is the label Nyege Nyege Tapes. It has significantly influenced the East African dance scene, and the Nyege Nyege Festival held in Uganda attracted international attention.
Many other experimental works incorporate traditional music; genres like “Electro Acholi,” which arranges traditional music of the Acholi people from the north into electronic music, are also gaining popularity.
In spring 2012, a message arrived to the official website of Japanese pop duo “Cousin.” It was a message from a member of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers stationed in Uganda.
The message explained that local middle and high school students had expressed a desire to create an original song to energize their community, and requested Kazun’s help. After repeated exchanges between distant Uganda and Japan, the completed song was titled “The Pearl of Africa,” a nickname celebrating Uganda’s beautiful landscapes and environment.
To conclude our journey, please enjoy some performances by musicians recommended by the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Japan.
- “I Am Ugandan (Muna Uganda)” – Juliana Kanyomozi
- “Sitya Loss” – Eddy Kenzo
- “Lo Fit” – Azawi
What did you think of your music journey to Uganda? There are still many more places to go! Please look forward to our next destination.
(Produced in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Japan, who also provided photos.)
Min-On Concert Association
–Music Binds Our Hearts–