After being granted leave from my job in Dubai, a thrilling sensation kicked in. I was going on a month-long backpacking trip to East Africa. Before leaving, I made sure I was well equipped, and I carried all the accessories I would require for a month long trip. Moreover, I was even vaccinated against yellow fever; I packed along anti-malaria tablets in abundance as it’s evident that the part of the world is infamous for heat and sanitation-related diseases. With one backpack consisting of personal belonging, and the other with social aid equipment, my flight FZ516 took off from the Dubai International Airport Terminal 2 to Entebbe, Uganda on 16th of June of 2018. 

As I landed, I was asked for my yellow fever vaccination certificate. Presenting the certificate ensured access to my first stop in Africa, Uganda. During my travel in Uganda, I was accompanied by a local, Francis Lubulwa, who guided me around Kigungu, located next to the Entebbe airport. The village had a stunning view of Lake Victoria (A source of river Nile). Being a social worker, he took me to an orphanage nearby where he volunteered engaging in charity. It was a pleasing moment for me when I spent time with the children, and also handed over a bag full of books and notebooks. I believe sharing knowledge is the most human beings can to enlighten their future. 

The next day, I planned to fulfill my childhood dream of recording a song, so I gathered some locals from Kigungu and headed to AZ Records. I wrote a song in the studio, composed the music and immediately recorded a song, there and then.  The song was entitled ‘Kabraza’, meaning my brother in the local Ugandan language. 

As per my schedule, my traveling time in Uganda was about to end. So, I hosted a small campfire to say thanks to Lubulwa and his family members. 

Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, was my next destination. The hustle and bustle of the city could be compared with the same of Ratnapark.  I ensured the safety of my wallet and other valuables in my pocket by permanently placing my hands there. I was informed to be aware of the magical pickpockets. I spent a night at the capital and relished a local delight before heading to Nairobi, Kenya. 

The Nepali diaspora living in different countries abroad are welcome to write about experiences of the cities that they inhabit for our column ‘Citylogue’. Send submissions to mycity@myrepublica.com with the subject-line ‘Citylogue’.