Guide for Long Term Volunteers

UGANDA PIONEERS’ ASSOCIATION
YOUTH VOLUNTARY ORGANISATION FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
"together we shape the future"
Uganda Pioneers’ Association
VOLUNTEERS’ GUIDE
About Us
Uganda Pioneers’ Association (UPA) is a Youth Voluntary Organization working with community
projects, work camps and voluntary exchange.
We envision creating an empowered, equitable and just communities of young people in Uganda.
Our Mission is that youth will take a leading role in their local communities through initiatives to
improve the livelihood of the less privileged rural and grassroots communities.
UPA’s Motto goes.... TOGETHER WE CAN SHAPE THE FUTURE.
UPA was founded in 1989 by young Ugandans with the aim of mobilizing youth to contribute to
community development through voluntary work. You can find more about UPA on their website:
www.ugandapioneers.org or write an inquiry letter on uganda_pioneers22@hotmail.com
Arrival
The start of our programs is very flexible; we provide an airport pick-up on the day of your arrival.
For this purpose, the volunteer and/or the sending organization should give us travel details (arrival
day and time, flight number and Name) in advance. The volunteers are advised to arrive at the
beginning of each week because offices remain closed during the weekends.
Orientation Days
A day and a week orientation conducted for short term, Medium term and long term respectively
according to the length of intended stay of each volunteer.
The orientation week is held for all volunteers. The orientation involves getting information about
Uganda (daily living, cultural conceptions, socio-economic and other basic information), UPA, the
project and the voluntary work (tasks) one will be doing. A UPA member will then help you visit
Kampala, internet cafes, banks, markets, super markets and selected tourist places. The UPA
member will also introduce and show you to the public transport and how we move around streets in
Kampala.
In-Between-Meetings
During your stay, meetings with UPA staff and volunteers are held monthly. The meetings are a form
of evaluation about the work you are doing, the accommodation and information sharing. For those
not working in Kampala, specific days will be assigned when the meetings can be held.
Please note, the organisation remains open for any other meetings in case of need, so please feel
free to suggest and do not wait for the structured days.
Final Evaluation
The final evaluation will be done during and at the end of the program term between the host
project, volunteer and UPA. All volunteers shall be obliged to write a narrative report at the end of
the project indicating their experiences, achievements, challenges, problems and suggestions for
improvement if any.
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Projects
The placement and the projects will be organized individually, according to your preferences in your
application form. Each application shall be followed with a copy of your CV and motivation letter.
Please be sure of the choices you write in your application sent in advance and try to adapt to the
projects once you are directed to. Changes of placement and hosting can be made only for very
special reasons, but not before trying to adjust in the first placement.
Please note that even when we work very hard in trying to confirm you in the project you are
interested in, we cannot fulfill everyone’s wishes. We always try to provide the best possibilities for
our volunteers, but there is no 100% guarantee that you get the project you have applied for.
A-Z about UPA and Uganda (Practical Info)
A
Arrival
Entebbe International Airport is the only International arrival airport for visitors. It is located 35 km
from Kampala, the Capital city. On arrival please ask for a traveler or tourist visa. There is no
volunteers’ visa and do not mention anything like volunteer or work otherwise the immigration
office will subject you to a work permit which is more expensive and complicated. The tourist visa is
offered for a period of 1-3 months largely depending on the mood of the immigration officer or your
ability to convince, express, or smile to him/her and it will cost 50 US $ while at the airport.
UPA always organizes for the pick up (included in the fee) and you will always find a volunteer at the
arrival point with an A4 paper with the name of Uganda Pioneers Association and the expected
volunteer’s name.
Accommodation
Accommodation can be in UPA guest-house, host families or in rented house depending on the
location of the project you apply for or wish of the volunteer. At the guest house, accommodation
will be simple but comfortable. The UPA guest house can accommodate 18 persons at any given time.
Volunteers will cook their own meals using gas. A small fridge is available to keep food. But
remember that electricity in Uganda is unreliable. The boys’ room is separate from that of the girls
and there is a caretaker to do the cleaning of the house at specific times. Other minor guest house,
utensils’ cleaning, the volunteers are expected to clean for themselves. You have to do your own
laundry by hand or in case of need may be done by the care taker at a mutually agreed on fee. There
is a shared kitchen where you can make your meals and there is one shower and toilet for all the
guests to be used, preferably only at night and an outside pit latrine (a hole in the ground for use
during the day).
The guest house has running water but the possibility of not having it is sometimes frequent due to
the unreliable service provided by the water board. One must be prepared and be patient in case
there is no running water and UPA keeps doing their best to find other alternatives of getting water
to the volunteers but note, the process is often slow.
In the guest house, only a few basic essentials like toilet paper, kitchen soap, gas, kitchen utensils
e.g. cloth dusters, washing sponge are provided by UPA from your fee. Please note other essentials in
the category of food, salt, sugar, cooking oil, drinking water are a responsibility of each volunteer or
sometimes volunteers may decide a group contribution.
The guest house is located out of Kampala, 8 miles Hoima Road. In case the volunteer is placed
outside Kampala, the host is requested to accommodate the volunteer in a host family or
alternatively to identify appropriate accommodation for rent by UPA. Volunteering in UPA generally
requires a very flexible and adaptable character but do not necessarily require a minimum standard
of accommodation.
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
Two volunteers can share a room but each volunteer must have his/her own bed. They can
get mattresses, pillows, sheets or blankets from UPA but shall bring their own mosquito net

Running water should be accessible or in case of shortage, water shall be provided from
outside suppliers.
Volunteers living in UPA guest house will have access to cooking gas, while those outside the
guest house shall be provided with a paraffin stove by UPA and is responsible for his/her
own cooking. In case a volunteer is placed/ lives in a host family, their hosts will direct
them on shopping, health and local transport facilities and possibilities.
you can also buy one in the market (10,000-15,000 shs). i.e 3 – 5 Euros.

Middle and Long Term Volunteers are allowed to have guests from abroad staying in the guest house
but they have to let know UPA beforehand and pay in advance a fee equivalent to the expected
days of stay at 15,000 shillings per night. Please remember the guest house is always booked, so
please respect the fact that you book and pay in time to avoid inconvenience.
Allergies
Please inform us of any allergies you may have, so that your contact person is prepared.
Alcohol
Alcohol can be bought in most shops around the guest house and in Kampala. Prices also vary a lot
from 3,000/= - 4,000/= (1 – 1.5 euros) according to the place you are drinking in e.g. kiosk, club,
hotel, etc. Please drink in the presence of people you trust such as other volunteers or UPA
volunteers so that no one will take advantage of you in case you have had too much.
Alcohol can be bought in most shops around the guest house and in Kampala. Please drink in the
presence of people you trust such as other volunteers or UPA volunteers so that no one will take
advantage of you incase you have too much of it.
AIDS
This is still a problem in Uganda. Currently 7.5% of the population is infected. If you are to have
sexual intercourse please strictly use a condom.
Asking
Asking for things like a cell phone, dollars, camera, watch and ticket to your home country and many
other things may be a habit for some people in the streets, villages or even some projects. People
still have the orientation of the past that was used to attach all white people to giving (donating)
aid. Many still believe that you live in a precious world. But remember you know your own realities
home and know what you can or cannot offer. It is one of the volunteers’ responsibilities to
teach/inform them about the reality, do not hide/do not shy away from telling the truth and avoid
promising what you cannot offer; it is never an offence not to give.
B
Banks
Banks are usually open 8:30 AM and close 4 PM during week days and 8:30 AM to 12PM on Saturdays.
They remain closed on Sundays and Public holidays. Most bank withdrawals will require your physical
presence in the premises and with valid identification documents, eg. Passport. However, services of
automated cards (ATMs), VISA cards are available in selected Banks in Kampala e.g. STANBIC, CRANE,
ORIENT and BARCLAYS Banks. It is also possible to withdraw money using MASTER card in STANBIC
bank main branch in Kampala. MAESTRO ATM cards may be accepted but in very few banks and it
shall require to be done inside the banking hall.
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Boda Boda
It is the means of travel using motor bikes and it is the most common and most tempting means of
transport within the city centre and outside because of convenience and the possibility to easily
access all corners of the city and other places that may not be easily accessible by other public
means. However, it is important to remember that they are most dangerous for causing road
accidents.
Business Hours
UPA office is always open from 8.30 am to 4pm Monday to Friday except public holidays and
weekends. However, if the staff has to travel to projects, attend work shops or attending to UPA
projects
or
branches
then
it
will
remain
closed
C
Climate
Uganda is so vast that the climate of the country is so varied. However, it has tropical climate and
one could classify the seasons as Hot, Wet & Cold. Temperatures usually range from 20 degrees
centigrade to 30 degrees centigrade depending on the part of the country you are. The hottest
months are from December to February and July. The rainy seasons in the south are from March to
May and October to November. In the north, the wet season is normally from April to October.
However, it is also possible that the climate is not as expected due to the changing weather patterns
due to the present global climate change.
Cost of Living
Your money goes a long way in Uganda.
Thanks to an extremely advantageous exchange rate costs are considerably lower than in Europe,
Asia and America. However prices can differ and vary according to the location. Please note, the
prices of commodities in Uganda are frequently determined by the prices of fuel and the foreign
currency exchange rate that are occasionally fluctuating.
Cultural Shock
Volunteers may experience a cultural shock on arrival in Uganda. Most things and way of life in the
country is different from that in the West. However this is only for a few weeks and you will get used
to the new way of life. After the projects and going back to their home countries volunteers may
experience a reverse cultural shock.
Managing cultural shock requires a lot of patience for one to give him/her self ample time to
understand analyse and appreciate the differences. Never rush to make decisions or judgments. The
process normally goes through stages that may include, honeymoon, crisis, recovery and adaptation.
D
Departure
UPA does not provide airport drop off to the volunteer, but can help to organize it at the volunteers
cost.
Dress code
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Very short (hot) pants, dresses, shorts are not compatible to our culture mainly for female
volunteers. Please try to carry along long dresses; pants and skirts preferably passed the knee level.
Driving
Driving is usually on the left similar to other commonwealth countries. Drivers tend not to care much
for other road users. It is therefore advisable that you always take in mind your own security on the
road and to look in all directions when crossing a street.
Drugs
Don't even think about it. All forms of narcotics are illegal in Uganda, and they attract life imprison
E
Emergency
In case of emergency you can always contact the UPA office 0312 274 703 or 0782 110 662 or 0782
335 322 or 0774 438 870 throughout the country, dial 999 or 112 for police and fire.
Expectations
Please don't come with too many expectations. That is the only way you will learn to accept your
surroundings. Don't force your culture on others, instead accept other Peoples culture and be ready
to learn.
Entertainment
The entertainment industry is growing very fast in Uganda. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays are best
days for going clubbing. Kampala City and the different suburbs are characterized by several clubs,
bars and Cinema halls. Every Monday night from 9:00 p.m the famous Jam session where some invited
local musicians gather for a free presentation at the National Theater Gardens is on.
Club Cascades is another heart of entertainment on Kampala road (you can contact them on +256 414
237 002), Afrigo live Band at little flowers is always on every Friday and Saturday night for those
interested in oldies. Mataeos bar and restaurant can also be located on Kampala road (close to the
main post office) and Iquana, the “white man’s” famous place, can be found on Kamwokya road and
provide another possibility to entertain you.
Note:
Most entertainment places of course bring together different types of characters. It is therefore
important not to go in with any of your valuables, take only money you want to use, avoid offers
from people you do not know and never leave your opened drinks unattended to or leave them with
someone you know and trust.
Do not be surprised that by virtue of your color, you will attract many “friends” but you need to be
very selective and careful to find out who is really interested in true friendship. This is the main
reason that it will be always advisable to move in with a guide or a friend either from your project or
UPA.
Environment
Respect for the environment is expected at all times. This might be at sometimes hard because of
the lack of disposable trash cans in many places of Kampala and in Uganda in general. Garbage
separation and recycling is still a nightmare and not a common practice in Uganda.
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Expectations
Please don't come with too high/many expectations. The stay requires someone highly flexible,
accommodative and social. That is the only way you will learn to accept your surroundings. Don't
force your culture on others, instead accept and respect our culture and be ready to learn. We know
your biggest ambition and wish is to create change, which is nice but please note that CHANGE is
gradual and may not be achieved in the shortest time of your stay.
Exchange rates
Almost all major currencies can be exchanged in Kampala. For UPA we strictly receive all
subscriptions in Euros on arrival. 1 Euro = 3500 shs (Uganda shillings.
The best places to exchange money could be in the dollar house and Metropole house (on Entebbe
road) and Amber house. Please, avoid untidy, old, notes with scratches or marks as they will not be
easily accepted in many places, they attract a lower exchange rate compared to good notes. You
can withdraw money from an ATM with your credit card (visa) or at counters in a bank with a
passport and without using your code.
Money exchange can be done in banks and Forex Bureaus mainly found in Kampala. Current exchange
rates can be found in newspapers and on signs in front of the shops.
Please Note: The exchange rate keeps changing.
For more updated exchange rates see http://www.xe.com/ucc/full/.
F
Fees
Participants are required to pay a fee of Euro 500 (five Hundred Euros) on arrival for 1- 3months
and Euro 50 (fifty Euro) in advance for each additional month the volunteer will extend. The fee
covers pick up from the airport or bus station upon arrival in Uganda, On arrival training (Orientation),
guest house equipment and maintenance, Accommodation, water, cooking gas, Electricity for those in
UPA Guest house and Accommodation, kitchen utensils, charcoal or paraffin stove for those in
Upcountry projects and a monthly contribution for those living in host families, communication prior to
the volunteer’s placement, preparation trainings and Evaluations with host projects and general UPA
administration costs.
Please note:
The fee you pay does not cover any project cost or airport transfer at the end of the project. For those
interested in supporting your projects financially, it is advisable that you do some fundraising
beforehand.
Food
Each region of Uganda has its very own food specialties. The common dishes eaten in the south are
bananas (Matooke), while in the north and east of the country maize, millet and sorghum are the
main dishes consumed. Other foods include Irish and sweet potatoes, cassava, rice and maize (posho)
which are usually served with meat, fish, or bean sauce. Vegetables and fruits are available all year
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round at affordable prices. For other non-traditional international products, there are various
supermarkets in Kampala where a volunteer can choose from.
G
Geography
Uganda is a land locked country boarded by Sudan in the north, Kenya to the East, Democratic
Republic of Congo to the west, Tanzania to the south and Rwanda to the southwest. The area
covered by the country is 235,796 km squared (32 nd in Africa; similar to Great Britain or the state of
Oregon in USA). The largest towns in Uganda are Kampala, Jinja, Mbale, Entebbe, Masaka, Gulu,
Arua, Soroti, Fort Portal, Kabale. The total population of the country is 33 million people (2011
estimate). The official language is English; other languages are Luganda, Swahili and many other
local languages.
H
Homosexuality
It is illegal in Uganda. Uganda has a very strict bill/law (in draft) under discussion
intending to hand down a death sentence to homosexuals. So kindly do not attempt
to practice or advocate for it in Uganda.
Hospitals
There are a number of public, missionary and private hospitals in and around Kampala. They include
Mulago National referral hospital, Mengo/Namirembe, Rubaga, Kibuli, Nakasero, The Surgery,
International Hospitals; all offering different services; private ones of course offering the best. You
will be provided with contact details for hospitals during your orientation on arrival in Uganda.
Hotels
You will be able to get a single basic room in most towns in Uganda. In Kampala you can get basic
single rooms, Hostels and other accommodation at affordable rates.
History
Uganda "the Pearl of Africa", as one British Officer called it has a long history.
The British came to Uganda in the early 18th Century. They came as traders and established the
British East African company. Over the years they established themselves as the undisputed rulers of
Uganda. In 1896, Uganda came under the British Crown. The Republic of Uganda attained its
independence in 1962.uganda therefore belongs to the commonwealth countries under the British
monarch. Uganda has had a chaotic past with governments coming to power through the coups and
civil wars.
I
Internet
Internet cafes can be found all across the country in all major towns and cities. The rates for
browsing vary according to which part of the country you are. The prices range around 1,000/= Ug.
shs (close to 0.5 of a US $ or Euro) for 40 minutes. If a volunteer has a laptop, can buy a modem
(Internet stick/flash) from the service providers and can have access to internet all the time. There
is also an internet café near the guesthouse.
Intercultural aspect
In all your interventions during your projects in Uganda please remember that the intercultural
aspect carries the biggest composition. Always reflect on your stay as an opportunity to enrich your
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experience and exchange of good practices. It is a “WIN- WIN” situation in which the “Give and
Take” practice should be your guiding principle in all of your activities. Endeavour to live in the
reality and diversity. It will always be a social responsibility that you carry an open mind. Avoid
stereotypes in all of your interactions. Remember you are joining in an effort that has been started
and will continue. Do not think you are going to change Uganda in a blink of an eye, but that you are
contributing to this ongoing process, appreciate the little change you can bring. Emphasise
continuous dialogue and do not forget to ask in case you do not understand something, remember
you are in a different culture where things run differently. In case you have any new ideas or
innovations please discuss it and try to reach a mutual agreement with your hosts, do not impose it.
Tolerance, patience, dialogue, listening and seeking explanation will be important tools to lead you
to successfully gain a better understanding of the Ugandan culture. As you watch and judge the
actions, expressions, reactions and behaviour of others, yours is also critically watched. They are
important and major tools in the intercultural dialogue.
The way you manage your interpersonal communication counts very much in the intercultural
dialogue. The two are linked or interlinked.
Insurance
You are required to arrange for your own health insurances before arrival to Uganda. For more
details,
contact
your
sending
organization.
J
No items with J
K
Kampala
This is the capital city of the Uganda. It is the home to most big shops, supermarkets, large
entertainment centers, Diplomatic missions and other political and economic organs. Like most
African Cities, Kampala is crowded with an estimated population of 2 million people during day and
less than a million during the night. Regular matatues and buses connect Kampala to other towns and
cities in the country. Kampala has both the new and old taxi parks that are terminals to the
matatues. The bus terminal is also close to both taxi parks. It would be advisable to get a map of
Kampala
to
help
you
when
traveling
around
the
city.
Kampala is a pretty safe city as far as capitals in Africa go. Beggars are a common sight in central
Kampala, but they are not very persistent.
You should be prepared for crowds, noise (calling you MZUNGU) and in some places dust on mainly
the busy streets down town. For girls the possibility of boys asking for marriage or if you are married
is common but you have the right to say out your opinion, it is not offending.
L
Languages
Uganda has more than 60 different languages spoken by the local people. The national language in
Uganda is English. Although not every one can speak it, most people will say a few simple words but
if you are to have a conversation you need to say the words slow with clear pronunciation to be
understood.
Literature
Aristoc bookshop with stores on Kampala road, Garden City and in both, old and new Tax parks in
down town Kampala offers you a variety of useful books and maps of Uganda and beyond. You may
contact them by phone on +256 414 349052/+256 414 344 381 for inquiries.
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M
Markets
There are markets in all major towns where everything from food to clothes to technology and crafts
can be bought. The prices are usually not fixed and only limited by your (and the salesmen's) skill for
bargaining. Money can be saved by consulting Ugandans or other volunteers before buying.
Money
The currency in Uganda is the Shilling (Shs.) Notes are available in denominations of 1000, 2000,
5000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 Coins in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000.
Medicines
Medicines can be easily bought at any of the medical shops and pharmacies that exist throughout the
country. But bring any special medicines from home if you need. You will be directed to
recommended hospitals and doctors in case of need.
N
National Parks
There are a number of national parks in the country to visit and see the wild beauty of Uganda.
About 2km from city center there is an office to book gorilla viewing permits. You can also get
information on national parks and other tourist places in the country.
O
Orientation about the country.
In the first few days you will have an orientation that is included in the fee. The orientation is going
to be given by UPA staff and will be on basic things about the country, UPA, its engagement in
voluntary service and cultural shock. Still you will learn a lot through experience or talking with the
local people, UPA volunteers and project hosts.
A visit to Kampala with one of the local volunteers will be arranged for you. During this visit you will
be able to visit exchange bureaus, a big supermarket, and anything you need in order to start with
your adventure in Uganda. You will also see the “Uganda Museum” on Kira Rd.
The lonely planet is an excellent guidebook about East Africa including Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda,
Burundi and Uganda. Macmillan produces maps of Kampala and Uganda. A city map can also be found
in the free tourist magazine "the Eye" available in Uganda.
P
Phone
In cities in Uganda payphones are rare. Mobile phones can be bought in many shops; it may cost you
as low as 40,000 Shs. You can load air time credit in the range of 1000, 5000, 10000 and 20000 shs. A
lot of money can be saved. You are advised to be consulting local volunteers, UPA Staff about the
prices before shopping.
Prices
The general cost of most items in Uganda is low and affordable compared to prices in your respective
countries. The Exchange rate of the Dollar and Euros against the Uganda shilling also offers a
comparative advantage for your money. Local meals are basically a variety of local foods and costs
between Ug. Shs 3,500/= – 4,000/= (approximately 1 Euro). In other places close or inside Kampala
the prices accordingly go higher depending on the place. Normal restaurants would go for 5,000/= -
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10,000/= (approx. 3 Euro). In Hotels you should be prepared for as high as from 25,000/= (8 Euro)
and above.
Other sample prices for the most commonly required day to day items are:








1.5 Litre Mineral water bottle – 1,500/= ( 0.5 Euro)
1/2 Litre of fresh milk – 1000/= - 1,500/= ( 0.5 Euro)
Roll (ban) -500/=, 1/2 Kg Bread 1,700/=, 1kg bread 3,500/= ( 1 Euro)
1kg of Rice – 3,000/= ( approx 1 Euro)
1packet of pasta/spaghetti – 2,500/= (approx 1Euro)
1packet of 100g of coffee – 7,000/= (approx 2 Euro)
1 kg of sugar – 3,000/= (approx 1 Euro)
A piece of fruit or vegetable like tomato, pepper, banana, orange, avocado, passion fruit is
between 200/= - 1,000/= (approx less than 0.5 Euro)
300 ml of soda is 1,000/= with a bottle or 1,200/= if you drink and live the bottle or you get
back a refund of 200/= on return of the empty bottle. (Approx less than 1 Euro).
Please note:
These prices are basic samples to prepare you to budget your daily spending but they keep
fluctuating from time to time. The idea is to give you an average or yardstick to use in your
planning.
Problems
Any problem that arises are to be discussed at the meetings. Any problem with another volunteer,
check first if there's a misunderstanding. If necessary talk with the coordinator.
Realize that Uganda is a different country from places in Europe and the more capable you are of
solving your problems, the more comfortable life can be.
Power
Electricity in Uganda is generated form water. However in the last few years this part of Africa has
experienced drought and this has led to the reduction of water in the lakes and rivers thus making
power generation difficult. This has caused high demand with a low supply. This has led to power
rationing. Therefore load shedding is common in Uganda. Power may go off any time.
Post
Post offices can be found in big towns and cities in Uganda. The UPA mail, address is P.O Box 25973,
Kampala, Uganda. In Uganda bringing mail out to physical addresses (homes, offices) is not there and
most companies have post boxes.
You may receive your mails either through UPA main box or through the EMS services which actually
calls you when your parcel arrives at the post office.
The main post office (on Kampala rd open 8am-6pm mon-fri, 8am-2pm sat). If you wish to have
something sent from home like food or books you can ask people to send you a package to the above
address.
Ask the person who sends you the package to write your name, the above address, and your cell
phone number. Don’t forget to bring passport with you when you are coming to pick-up your
package.
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Projects
UPA offers a variety of projects and is constantly adding new, exciting, interesting projects such as
teaching in primary schools, taking care, playing and teaching orphans, working with children with
disabilities or special needs, hospitals, health centres or clinics particularly of HIV/AIDS, organisation
work with small community based organisations (CBO’s) and growing Non- government organisations
(NGO’s), e.t.c.
Any project you will choose will change your life forever and the experience will be a lifetime
opportunity.
Volunteers must pay their transport to and from their respective projects. UPA will always be there
and is committed to listen to, discuss and find mutual agreement and /or solutions to your challenges
in the projects. Please do not take the whole burden on your shoulders.
Public Transportation
Uganda mainly uses road as its means of transport. Matatus (rebuilt vans) with license to carry 14
passengers (however do not be surprised if they sit 18 – 20 in them) are the major public form of
transport in most parts of the country. There are two taxi parks in Kampala, located in down town,
but the matatus can be taken from most places following the roads to or from major traffic points.
Going from Town to the guesthouse is 2000shs and the other way 1000 -1500 shs. Larger buses can be
taken for longer distances in Uganda and around East African countries.
Boda bodas: transportation by scooters and motorbikes can be very useful if you’re lost in town.
Small rides go for 1000 shs. Medium (2km to 4 km) 2000 shs and longer rides upwards. From
downtown Kampala to guesthouse 4000 to 5000 shs. Rides with more than three people on the
motorbikes are no longer legal, but can be done to save money. However it is not admirable.
Q
Questions
You can always ask questions to other local or international volunteers who have been in the country
longer than you incase of the latter. You can contact UPA for email addresses for former and present
volunteers.
R
Religion
Islam, Christianity, and African tradition are the major religious communities in the country.
According to the 2002 census, Christians constitute about 83% of the population followed by Muslims
with 11% and other religions with 2%. The population of Uganda is estimated at 33 million people
(2011Estimates).
Most people in Uganda believe in something and therefore have difficulties understanding Atheist.
Many humanitarian organizations in Uganda are supported by missionary organizations from USA and
other Western countries. Therefore churches from America and the west have a deep impact in the
governmental policies concerning Christian deeds. Most clearly seen in the campaign against AIDS
(ABC) Abstinence Be faithful Condom use where Abstinence is highly preferred than condoms.
S
Safety
Organizations worldwide are working hard in coordinating the international exchange of volunteers
for social projects and in providing opportunities for young people to travel for personal development
and interests.
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Uganda Pioneers’ Association
Do not behave in any manner which is going to disturb other volunteers, and the organizations behind
the exchange and most of all your personal health & well being, please avoid any high risk factors
during your stay.
These may include not moving too late at night and alone, avoiding too much drinking, avoiding going
out with everybody and inviting everybody you meet to your home/ guest house. Outsiders are not
allowed in the guest house.
Shopping
Shopping in Uganda may look confusing but is very easy. Most small shops/stores in the locality sell
almost everything one may need in life. There are normally not many specialized stores for selling a
particular item. Some stores in Kampala can sell from home consumables, cloth, electronic, etc. We
use a lot of bargaining in some places; however you need to know when and where.
For souvenirs every Friday of the week is a “Women Market” on the outskirt of Kampala city. It is
affordable and recommendable for its jewellery, statuettes, crafts and batiks. On Buganda road and
around the National theatre there also several handcraft shops with slightly higher prices than at the
women’s market. Another market is, “Owino Market” known for a variety of second hand items,
however this is the most crowded place in the city. It requires a lot of patience but it is a worthwhile
adventure.
If you like to do your shopping in a luxurious and more calm/ relaxed environment, Nakumat and
Garden City counts with several stores, a cinema, bowling alley and food stores and /or restaurants;
Lugogo Shopping Mall on Jinja road, Game and Shoprite in the city centre are some of the
possibilities with a lot of merchandise from South Africa.
Smoking
This is not allowed in public and in the sleeping rooms, only outside the house. Smoking is also
restricted in most social places in Uganda
Sex
Relationships should always be done with safety in mind. The rate of HIV/AIDS is still high and no
risks should be taken. Condoms can be bought in all pharmacies and most local shops. Be careful,
patient and take your time before getting into relationships, that is if you find it inevitable, They can
end up to be linked too much on material gains and most times not last. Exchanging partners could
also lead to hurting yourself (Heartbreaks) . So watch out. Remember is also cultural and the
practice is very different from what you might be used to.
T
Time-Uganda Standard Time
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Time-Uganda Standard Time
Ugandan people are very informal, others will call that undisciplined and unreliable. So please try to
be flexible. Sometimes planning is changed without clear reasons and arbitrarily, but then again
sometimes nice opportunities open up which are not parts of the schedule either. However this is not
often, and volunteers should be a good example and show that time can be held.
Time Zone
Uganda Standard time is 3.00 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or London. Volunteers
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Uganda Pioneers’ Association
should notice while Europe, Northern America and other places in the world change between
wintertime and summertime, Africa is holding the same time throughout the year.
Tipping
Generally tipping is not compulsory, except in big hotels and restaurants. However, service providers
at hotels and restaurants, taxi drivers, and others who have been exposed to tourism are now
expecting tips. The tips are not added in your bills, so the decision to tip or not is yours.
Traffic
Kampala is a small city characterized by very narrow roads that are used by all small and big cars,
motor cycle, cyclists, and pedestrians, name it all. There is not distinction in road use. All movement
is on these narrow roads and there is often misuse or indiscipline. Due to the crowd, it is often that
most road users get impatient and in the end it becomes almost mismanaged. The traffic police try
their best but sometimes it goes beyond their control especially in the rush hours.
In this case it is advisable that you travel in Kampala streets only if you are calm, concentrated in
mind. Do not be surprised to find it difficult to travel through some roads in Kampala
Transportation
Transportation is mostly road by “MATATU” (little bus), but you can also take a motorcycle (“bodaboda”) remember that the ride on the motorcycle is very dangerous and without helmet. The cost of
the ride is determined between you and the rider
To get from the guest –house (in Nansana) to Kampala by matatu cost 1000-1500 shs and to return
from Kampala to Nansana cost 1500 - 2000 shs, depending on the time of the day.
Traveler's Cheques
Traveler's cheques may be cashed at most commercial banks and authorized moneychangers (in the
bigger cities only!).
Tourist places and opportunities
Beside the amazing nature, tourist can go to white water rafting on the Nile (see www.adrift.ug Tel:
+256 772 286 433/ +256 772 237 438 for booking), several companies arrange trips to the source of
the Nile in Jinja east of Kampala, Uganda Wild Life Centre ( Email: uweced@infocom.co.ug Tel: +256
414 256041/+256 414 302520), the national museum is worth a look, and for art there are some
galleries, which mostly are located in Kampala. Several craft markets are located around Kampala
with African art for sale.
Tour Safari trips with tour companies outside Kampala to the National Parks to see the amazing big
five animals is also another possibility in the Queen Elizabeth National Park (400km South west of
Kampala), Murchison falls National Park and water falls (390 km North West of Kampala). Mt Elgon
290 km to the eastern side of the country is another exciting tour for mountain climbing.
Ssese Islands in the middle of Lake Victoria is another inevitable tourist area not to be missed to see
the beauty of Uganda’s Islands and several other wild animals and birds.
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Uganda Pioneers’ Association
To help our volunteers access these places, UPA can now organize the trips below at subsidized
costs assist to volunteers interested to reach the mentioned tourist destinations in Uganda including
Murchison falls National Park (250 US $), Queen Elizabeth National Park (300 US $), Semuliki National
Park for male and female hot springs experience, nature walk, pigmy cultural dances as well as birds
viewing (US $250)
Kazinga Channel, Salt Lakes, Forest walks, and game viewing. Mountains Elgon and Rwenzori for
hiking and climbing (US $ 350), Lake Mburo National Park for Boat trips, guided walking safaris, horse
riding (US $ 250). Ssese Islands for Sun/sand bathing, forest walks, birds viewing and relaxation (US
$200).
The Mighty Nile River Nile for, horse riding, boat trips to the top of the river, bungee jumping. (US $
150)
The City Tour including Kasubi Tombs, Bahai and Hindu Temples, Uganda Martyrs shrines, local
markets, craft shops, Ndere centre, Uganda Museum, Monument sites, Uganda Parliament, factories
and other explorations. US $ 100)
U
Ugandan People
Ugandans in general are very informal, helpful and hospitable people and are brought up to respect
and treat guests well. Don't feel uncomfortable, but accept it. Ugandans are very warm and talkative
people who like to gather a lot. Families and friendships are very important to Ugandans.
Ugandans in general, are very helpful and hospitable. If your hosts go out of their way to make you
feel comfortable, DON'T feel awkward, accept it and appreciate it. You will most times expect
people to offer you a heart- warming hospitality up and down the country, the ever present smile
will always be accompanied with the word, “Mzungu” literally meaning, “White person”. Many will
always be there for help in case of need.
Uganda Pioneer’s Association (UPA)
Uganda Pioneers’ Association is a youth voluntary organization working with community projects,
work camps and volunteer exchange.
UPA was founded in 1989 by young Ugandans with the aim of mobilizing youth to contribute to
community development through voluntary work. UPA currently operates with 8 Branches in seven
Districts in Uganda.
Where it organizes national and international work-camps that contribute voluntary labour and skills
to local development projects such as schools, community centers, health units, farmers’ centers,
etc. UPA also links national and international volunteers to community projects. UPA is registered
under the National NGO Board, Ref. S. 5914/114. We are not representing any political, religious or
sectarian interests. UPA wants to bridge gaps between different people’s way of living and cultural
background.
V
Visas
It is one of the most challenging legal requirements during your stay, especially for people intending
to live for more than 3 months. It has a series of legal requirements and delays.
Regular Tourist Visas are given for 1-3months at the nearest Ugandan embassy. Your purpose of visit
should be TOURISTIC.
-The visa is given from the date of issue and not from the dates you mention in the application.
-Extension of this visa in Uganda is possible. It can only be done at the immigration office of the
Ministry of Internal Affairs on Jinja Rd, east of Kampala.
-Please arrange with your organization how to proceed to get the correct visa.
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Uganda Pioneers’ Association
-All visitors must have a return ticket. It is better to buy the visa at the airport for 50$ or other entry
points into the country.
W
Working Hours
Expected working hours differ from 5-7 hours/day in schools though 8 hours in other projects. In
some projects there may be more than one volunteer but this cannot be guaranteed because you can
be the only one to sign up for a certain project at that time.
Normally, the volunteers can work in the project they applied for. There is, however, it is not a 100%
guarantee because it may be that the project is full or does not need a volunteer for the specific
time.
Water
Drinking water should always be boiled and filtered. Drinking straight off the tap is not safe, when
traveling shops have a wide range of mineral water that costs about Ug Shs. 1,000-2,000 per bottle.
What to bring
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Clothes, both casual and formal, sleeping bag and flashlight.
Working shoes (trekking/sports shoes) in case of physical work
A personal first aid kit (bandage, disinfectant, diarrhea tablets, etc) and any medication you
may require (allergies, asthma, diabetes, etc.), however almost all medicines can be
purchased in Uganda.
If you bring electrical equipment then remember to bring a British adapter. Otherwise you
can buy one in Uganda for about 3,000 to 5000 shs.
Camera and films for the camera
Sun glasses, sun cream Lotion
Torchlight
Traditional Music,
Photos from your home country or a flag
Games, Guitar or key board for those interested in music.
AND DON’T FORGET TO BRING YOUR ENERGY, SMILE, AND SENSE OF HUMOUR ALONG TOO!
Uganda Pioneers’ Association is a young and flexible organization. We expand our activities rapidly and
are open for all suggestions. We, however, see this as a good opportunity to learn from different points
of view, to promote understanding and to come up with creative solutions in an international group. To
promote community based development, intercultural cooperation and youth participation through
voluntary work.
People who do voluntary work are really motivated and want to make a difference in the world by
showing solidarity and a sense of responsibility to our world, and we at UPA will always support this.
Finally, remember you need to be patient and tolerant. Uganda has a different culture from
yours. Local people see you as you see them. You need to be friendly, careful, have an open
mind and willing to learn and share. Be ready to adjust to new situations and challenges in order
to have a good time. Uganda will be an experience, be prepared to live it. We are looking
forward to meeting you!!!!
UPA warmly welcomes you to Uganda!!!
Contact:
‘Youth Voluntary Organisation for National Development and Intercultural Co-operation’
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Uganda Pioneers’ Association
UPA
8 Miles Hoima Road
P.O Box 25973 Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 (0) 312 274 703, OR +256 (0) 704610662, OR +256 (0) 774 438 870, OR +256 782 335
322 OR +256 (0) 704136523 OR +256 (0) 782 110 662
E-mail: Uganda_pioneers22@hotmail.com
website: www.ugandapioneers.org
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