Kampala City
Explore Uganda's Capital
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Welcome To The Eye Magazine Directory
Explore Uganda's Capital
Kampala, the capital and largest city of Uganda, is the country’s political, cultural, and economic heart. Founded on the rolling hills of the Buganda Kingdom, Kampala has grown from a humble royal hunting ground into a bustling, metropolis (with the traffic jams to match). Known for its vibrant nightlife and rich historical background, Kampala is known as “the city that never sleeps.”
Kampala’s history is deeply intertwined with the Buganda Kingdom. The city traces its origins to the 19th century when Mutesa I, the Kabaka (king) of Buganda, chose the area as one of his favorite hunting grounds due to its abundant wildlife, particularly the impala antelope. The British colonialists later arrived and named one of the hills "The Hill of the Impala," which the Baganda people translated into Luganda as "Akasozi K’empala." Over time, "K’empala" evolved into "Kampala," the name the British rulers later adopted for the city. (The Luganda language often incorporates English words, such as "emotoka" for "motor car.") Originally built on seven hills, Kampala has expanded significantly over the years to cover more than 20 hills, each with its own unique character and history. The annual Seven Hills race is a 21km event that celebrates Old Kampala.
Situated in the central region of Uganda, Kampala is just a few kilometers from the shores of Lake Victoria. Spread across over 20 hills, the city covers an area of around 189 square kilometers. Its strategic location as the commercial and administrative hub of Uganda makes Kampala easily accessible from all parts of the country. Kampala District lies within the Kingdom of Buganda, in Central Uganda, close to the shores of Lake Victoria. The city is divided into five divisions: Kampala, Kawempe, Makindye, Nakawa, and Rubaga.
Kabaka Ronald Edward Frederick Kimera Muwenda Mutebi II is the 35th Kabaka of Buganda Kingdom
All roads lead to Kampala, with major highways linking it to Uganda’s other key cities and regions. Entebbe International Airport is the most common point of entry for international visitors.
Lake Victoria: For a quick escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, head to Lake Victoria or climb one of the hills for panoramic views.
Nightlife: Kampala is renowned across East Africa for its vibrant nightlife, featuring local bars, international restaurants, nightclubs, casinos, and music festivals.
Dining: Kampala residents are spoiled for choice, with dining options including Indian, Japanese, Belgian, Italian, Mexican, and Chinese cuisine, alongside local favorites like roasted meat. High-end hotels offer dining options for corporate events, and Ugandan coffee and tea are served everywhere.
Shopping: If you know the right people and places, you can buy almost everything in Kampala. The bustling markets of Nakasero and Owino are a must-visit. For the best deals, go with a Ugandan friend, a local guide, or even a personal shopper. The city also has a proliferation of shopping malls.
Sport: Whether you’re running, cycling (or just drinking beer at Kyadondo Rugby Club), Kampala has a lively sports scene. Lugogo is famous for cricket, boxing, and tennis; most hotels have swimming pools, gyms, and saunas abound, whether at hotels or at bigger trading centers.
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