A Ugandan national who returned after a four-year absence has shared a series of observations reflecting on significant changes in the country. After spending about a month in Uganda, the individual noted a blend of improvements and ongoing challenges.
One of the most striking changes is the aesthetic transformation of social hangouts. The individual observed that many venues are now designed to be more visually appealing and “Instagrammable,” with vibrant atmospheres that enhance the social experience. “It’s no longer just about alcohol; there are awesome vibes everywhere,” they remarked.
However, the state of infrastructure remains a concern. The returnee described the roads in Kampala as being in worse condition than they remembered, citing alarming potholes and dust on major streets. “It was quite alarming,” they commented.
Highlighting the entertainment scene, they praised Lynda Ddane, a local DJ, as “the best in Kampala,” noting her ability to energize every event attended.
Cultural observations included a curious trend of locals staring, which left the returnee wondering about the cause, despite being well-dressed. In contrast, they recognized improvements in the tourism sector, particularly the emergence of Ugandan-owned resort lodges.
Transportation also drew attention. The returnee expressed concern over the low pay for SafeBoda riders, suggesting that tipping became a common practice to help support them. Additionally, issues with slow internet connectivity and weak battery life in mobile Wi-Fi devices were highlighted as areas needing improvement.
Despite some criticisms of customer service in various businesses, there was a noticeable uplift in the overall standard of living. The returnee noted that people seemed to be doing better financially, as evidenced by the types of cars on the road.
Fashion also made an impression, with the returnee praising the stylishness and maintenance of women in Kampala. Yet, they reported a surprising increase in load shedding frequency, suggesting that some infrastructure issues remain unresolved.
