Page 127 - Oct-Dec 2024 Edition

History and Background Statue of Sir Gerald Portal: situated on the
town’s main road, the statue commemorates
Omukama Kaboyo was the first king of Toro. the British Consul General who played a role
He broke away from the Bunyoro-Kitara in establishing the British protectorate over
Kingdom in the early 19th century to establish Uganda.
the independent Toro Kingdom, which has its
cultural heart in Fort Portal. Out and about
Numerous traditional ceremonies and rituals Crater lakes: walk, bike, ride or drive around
are still practiced today. The annual coronation the series of beautiful crater lakes. HillTop
anniversary of the Toro king, known as “Em- Horses offer rides of one hour or more around
pango,” is celebrated with great enthusiasm Lake Saka.
in Fort Portal. The region around Fort Portal is
rich in local folklore. Bird watching: The region is a prime location
for bird watchers.
Fort Portal is the only town in Uganda with an
English name. It was named after Sir Gerald Chimp tracking in Kibale Forest is a popular
Portal, the British Consul General of Zanzibar, activity.
who came to Uganda in the 1890s to formalize Swamp walks in Bigodi for birds and primates:
British protectorate status over the country. the best and original project is run by KAFRED,
The town serves as the administrative center of and directly supports the local community.
Kabarole District.
Toro Botanical Gardens: a relaxing spot that
Before the arrival of the British, the area showcases indigenous local flora.
around Fort Portal was governed by local
chiefs under the Toro Kingdom. Toro Golf Club: the club has a 9-hole golf
course next to the Gardens.
Attractions
Shopping: The town has plenty of markets:
Historical and Cultural Sites: Mpanga and Kabundaire, and others along
Toro Palace: Built in the 1960s, you can’t miss the main road. Andrew’s Supermarket stocks
this round palace, guarded by lion statues - the a wide range of local and imported food and
kingdom’s emblem - on a hill overlooking Fort drinks. A few doors down is Maria’s, a well-
Portal. The palace was restored by the Libyan priced local handicrafts and souvenir shop.
government after the 1960s destruction when Getting there
President Obote’s government abolished the
traditional kingdoms. Fort Portal is 311 km by road from Kampala.
Karambi Tombs: 5 km out of town on the It’s a 4 - 6 hours’ drive to Fort Portal. Drive
Kasese Road, the burial grounds of Omuka- yourself, hire a driver or take the bus.
ma Kasagama and Rukidi III are an important Midway between Kampala and Fort Portal is
cultural and historical site. Mubende, the traditional comfort break and
The Amabere Caves are known for their muchomo (roasted meat) stop. En route, a
spiritual significance in local folklore. Here you growing number of fuel stations sell coffee and
can learn about the “Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru” snacks.
(Breasts of Nyina Mwiru). For more information on Fort Portal, please
refer to the pages on Fort Portal in The Eye
Magazine.

Text credit: Charlotte Beauvoisin
(Diary of a Muzungu blog)

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