After an early breakfast, we transfer to Jinja in the eastern part of Uganda. En route we have a stopover at the Sezibwa Falls.
Sezibwa falls is traditionally derived from the vernacular word “sezibibwa kkubo” meaning “no obstacle can stop me from moving on”. The site located about 20 miles along Jinja Road is a Buganda Heritage site, with an out span of sharp edged rocks and the magnificent sound of soothing waters flowing down the steep ridged stones. Sezibwa Falls attracts many who seek blessings due to cultural beliefs that the river was born of a woman. It’s alleged that the 2 rivers named Sezibwa and its brother Bwanda were born by a woman on her way to Kavuma Bukunja when she experienced labour pains. Nakkungu Tebatuusa whose husband was called Nsubuga Sebwato gave birth to Twins in form of water, where Sezibwa flowed west, passing many obstacles hence getting its name, while Bwanda flowed towards Nyenga in Eastern Uganda to the mothers’ homeland. The gate is normally manned by casually dressed men, and on a busy day, there are over 100 visitors including tourists, researchers, geologists, students and people seeking peace and miracles. Many of the locals come to the place for miracles as they believe the site has supernatural powers. There is a cowry shrine Mbuga ya musoke, that is believed to be a home of a python called Nalongo. Eggshells, Calabashes, backcloth, short spears and a coffee berry basket are found at the entrance of the shrine; these signify the cultural, traditional and spiritual beliefs of the site. The beautiful green vegetation composed of Bamboo and Erithina, the 7m-high waterfalls, and the harmony of bird songs above the trees create beautiful scenery for relaxation and enjoyment. Rock climbing and bird watching are main activities at the site. Wildlife here includes Bush Monkeys, Red-tailed monkeys and many other primates and Birds. The dark waters rise up to 90 feet during the rainy season, with fascinating sounds from the pouring waters, holding the secret not known to many, unique and rich traditions, acknowledged only by those who love culture and the serenity of the environment.