You Say Easter, I Say Election Update!

It’s been a little over a month now since the National election in Uganda. It’s hard to believe, really. In the weeks that have followed this event, I have been fortunate enough to have had many in-depth conversations about the results and the future of the country. Throughout many of these conversations, I've noticed that three interesting points/thoughts have surfaced.

When you’re in a race, you expect to win… so you contest when you lose

The above statement is a view I hadn't previously thought of before, but there's a lot of truth behind it. In any competition, be it a political race, some form of athleticism, musical showcase, or any other of the long list of like-events, one usually goes in with a mindset or desire to win. Sure, we can enter competitions to compete against ourselves, our own personal bests, or perhaps a smaller group within a much larger field of competitors, but generally, I don't believe people compete without thinking about earning the top spot. And, sure, it sometimes doesn't feel so great when we end up not securing that winning position, but it shouldn't stop us from trying again or being proud of our accomplishments.

What I have never thought of, however, is the outcome of a political race - or more specifically losing in a political race. This alternative idea of expectation vs. reality expressed in one of these conversations really had me thinking. It makes a lot of sense, too. If you are confident that you are going to take that lead position, why wouldn't you be dumbfounded when the results say otherwise?! The person I had this very conversation with, argued that when the leaders of one of the political parties came to town, everyone gave that party's hand gesture*, signifying that they were in support of said party. Now, to be fair, it would be a little naïve for the leader of one of these parties to assume their popularity solely based on a citizen's ability to maneuver their fingers in a particular form. However, it is understandable to see how they could assume they'd had this same group's vote.

But imagine - you're travelling the country, meeting ordinary people, and they're giving you the signal that says you're their choice. You become more and more confident that the win is yours. Election day comes and goes, and when the results are announced, your name is not presented. You had been assured by the very people who'd participated by casting their votes that you - and only you - would be the chief-in-command. So, you look for answers.

This scenario is completely plausible. What makes it less so, however, are the numerous accusations and reports that has followed this election. I do believe, that the statement made in that conversation has a good degree of validity. I do not believe, that in this particular case, it is true. Yes, both Besigye and Mbabazi sought the position of President with confidence, and believed they had a shot at winning. Yes, I'm certain they were both disappointed that they did not win. But, I cannot believe that the only reason they are questioning the finally tally is out of poor sportsmanship. It just doesn't make sense here - especially since this isn't he first time the validity of a Ugandan National election has been called into question.

When is it time for the opposition leader to step-down?

One point that continues to be thrown around is the idea that Museveni has been in power for too long. I myself have made that comment… on multiple occasions. But, as I became more and more involved in post-election discussions, I began to ponder the future of the opposition parties – particularly the leadership of Kizza Besigye.

I can no longer tell you if Besigye is still under some form of house arrest or detainment, because a) the papers have stopped reporting it, b) I’ve lost track, and c) I’ve simply just stopped looking. But, what I can tell you is that he’s been the leader of the FDC for nearly half of Museveni’s reign. I’m not saying that I don’t believe in Besigye’s capabilities as a leader, or his potential as a president. What I’m saying is, if those who are against Museveni’s lengthy reign are also in favour of Besyge’s leadership, isn’t that contradictory? I mean, one of the (many) arguments against the current president, is that he doesn’t have any new ideas and that it’s time for new blood**, so to speak. So, couldn’t the same be true for Besiyge? When is it time to accept one’s time is finished and look for a new, fresh face? Don’t get me wrong; the allegations against the validity of the democratic process here in Uganda over the last several elections might have prevented the opposition from winning. However, is Besigye’s presidency more important to the people of Uganda and the FDC party, or the removal of the current head-of-state and the instalment of new leadership?

I don’t have the correct answer here - or even an answer, for that matter. I’m only trying to work through this idea myself.

Over-hype or cover up?

In the lead up to Uganda’s latest presidential election there were warnings and threats that violence would ensue no matter the outcome. These potential negative events were made by multiple parties, including the continuing leader, President Museveni, opposition leaders and the people themselves. It appeared that day after day a new threat would surface – if the current president wins, we the people will protest in the streets; if I, the President, shall lose, I will send “my military” to show I’m in charge; and so on and so forth. The build up of fear resulted in supermarket shelves being emptied, and an increased presence of both police and military.

As an expat, I was receiving messages from the Canadian Consulate in Kampala in both SMS and email form, telling us to avoid crowds, bulk up on food and stay inside. And in addition, friends from within and near the country were telling me to take a short vacation to neighbouring Kenya. Yet, election day came and went. Social media was shut down. There were times when internet connectivity and phone lines were off and on. Helicopters flew overhead. And, of course, the main opposition was arrested and detained... multiple times.

But, reports of mass rioting and violence seemed absent from the media outlets covering the election. The threats and predictions of people taking to the streets pending the outcome that inevitably came to pass appeared not to exist. So what happened? Was I being over-prepared or is there a much deeper situation taking place that we aren't being told?! I'm not trying to spark a conspiracy, or infer falsehoods of the real situation here in Uganda, but once again, trying to understand what has actually taken place. 

***

So, while I don't have any real update on the election, other than to tell you the process of assessing the validity of the outcome is underway, I hope, at the very least, that I've been able to make you think. And, not just about the Ugandan context, but to how each of these three points/thoughts/consideration might apply to other situations. 

As I leave you now, please allow me to wish you all a Happy Easter, and a special shout-out to Myrtle (my grandmother), who is celebrating her xx^th birthday today! Happy birthday, Grammy!

(Photo credit: Mike Kennedy)

-the Orange Canadian

*Museveni is associated with the thumbs up, Besigye the peace sign, and Mbabazi the finger gun (classy, sir!). 
**Not actual blood…

On Top of Soroti

One month from today I will be touching down on Canadian soil once again. In many ways it seems like only weeks have passed since I first arrived in Uganda nearly six months ago.

Since last Tuesday I have been in the Eastern Region of the country, spending the first few days in Katakwi, and the remainder of the time in Soroti. Katakwi has a fantastic name, but is way too hot for this Orange Canadian, so I’m always happy to find myself back in the comforts of Soroti town and its surrounding areas. This trip marks my fourth, and sadly final, visit to the area – a fact I’m only now beginning to grasp.

When I first described the journey from Kampala to Soroti, I noted the changes in landscape and the beautiful scenery to be found along the way. This time, knowing it would be my last trip, I decided to film parts of the drive in order to preserve it in a tangible format for after I leave, but also to share it with others in order to stress just how beautiful this country truly is. And, what I’m even happier about was the opportunity to capture one of the most breathtaking sunsets – which I always seem to find when I’m in this part of the world! Seriously, Teso knows how to do a sunset. I’ve never seen one like those I have been fortunate enough to witness first hand during many drives.

But, my time here is nearing. It’s all sinking in that soon I will be leaving. This trip is both wonderful and heartbreaking. I’m saying goodbye to good people that I have begun to know. To children who I have seen grow in between my first visit and this one. To individuals and families who have inspired me with their drive, dedication and never-ending hard work.

As I sat under the same mango tree I mentioned just a few short months ago, I feel overwhelmed with the reality that I am returning back to Canada, yet, I’m at peace. I felt the same way sitting under that tree, surrounded by people I will never forget, as I do when I turn that corner on the 101 and see Blomidon from across the way. My heart is smiling. It’s filled with happiness and hope. I feel okay about leaving. Don’t get me wrong – I’m not looking forward to parting ways with this incredible country and those who have become a part of my life – but at least now I can leave, knowing that I’ve had a chance to make peace with this departure.

Cassava drying.

Sunset just outside of Soroti while visiting one of our model farmers, Janet.

Beautiful landscape on the way to the toilets in Ngora.

My last trek up-country wasn’t all sadness, though. No, there was the terrifying encounter with the largest spider I’ve ever seen in my bathroom twice in one night. And of course, there was the climb up Soroti Rock. This encounter was far more enjoyable until we ran into a few, shall we say, tourist deterrents. You see, on top of Soroti Rock is the area’s water supply, so the rock is usually patrolled, for reasons I have yet to find out*. But none of this matters, for, once we reached the top, caught our breath, and took a swig of water (not from the town’s supply, but our own), we enjoyed a few moments of fear-facing, excitement, and ultimately relaxation as we took in the beautiful views of the sunset and surrounding town.

Soroti Rock
(Image Source: Wikipedia)

The base of Soroti Rock. If you look close, you can see the blue metal handrails.

First snap from the top!

SUNSET!

GOATS! 

One more shot of the setting sun! 

I was also able to enjoy multiple epic lightening storms. And, I say lightening because on many late evenings the sky would light up with bolts from all over the horizon, often without the accompaniment of thunder. However, we did have one really good rainstorm**!

In a few more weeks, the Kennedy Sibling Reunion 2.0 will commence, and then I’ll be on my way. My return comes just two weeks before the two-year mark of my departure for Ghana, and my almost two years abroad. What’s next? Many things! Some are planned, some are in the works, and some still have yet to materialize at all. But, one thing's for sure, there will be some time home before the next big adventure kicks off!

And with that I bid a so long to Soroti. I hope to return someday soon.

-the Orange Canadian

*and probably won’t.
**Unfortunately, I am unsure how to upload an audio file to blogger... but will be sure to update once I do!

Who's Awesome?

Well, today happens to be the International Day of Awesomeness! I know, I appear to be on a bit of Daily Tasty Nugget nostalgia this week, but I promise this won't become a thing! But I mean, come on, today is awesome - how can I pass this up?! And, in case you don't believe me this is a real thing - check out the day's official webpage!

Most of you know, I've dedicated this year to being more awesome myself. I am awesome. That's a fact. I also try to make sure those around me know they are too. So, I've only got one question for you...do you know who is awesome?

For all my Bill Murray fans:

(Image credit: www.giphy.com)

For all my cat-lovers:

(Image credit: www.9buz.com)

For all my dog-lovers:

(Image credit: www.who-is-awesome.com)

For all my potty-mouths?:

(Image credit: Tumblr)

And, perhaps most importantly - for all my friends, family, and fans of this Orange Canadian:

YOU! YOU ARE AWESOME!!!!

Happy International Day of Awesomeness! I hope each and every one of you knows how truly awesome you are and how much more awesome you make my life!

-the Awesome Orange Canadian

PS: Don't forget you're awesome... EVER!

International Women's Day

Today marks International Women's Day. And, to that I say: Uganda - 1, Canada - 0. But before that, let me channel my previous blogging skills to talk briefly about the significance of this day. 

International Women's Day (IWD) was first observed in 1911, following New York's 1909 declaration of Women's Day. According to the event's official website, IWD is a "global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women." There's a great timeline included on this site that shares the progression of IWD, if you're interested. And, like many other international days this one comes with a yearly theme. This year is all about Gender Parity - an important issue. You can check out this year's campaign page and take the pledge to seek gender parity.

But, let's get back to business... Here in Uganda, I have witnessed the gender gap almost daily in my position. I'm not talking about an inequality within my workplace, but in the subject matter my organization is trying to tackle. One of my co-workers is working almost exclusively on women's rights in agriculture. You see, when it comes to agriculture, women are secondary - even though they do the majority of the work in this sector. Obtaining land, although technically legal, is extremely difficult for women. Traditionally, land is gained through inheritance or family connections - and usually from father to son, as it's very rare the inheritance would be transferred to a daughter, or even wife. But even when land is purchased, it is still difficult for a woman to be granted the deed. This is partly because access to money and other financial and non-financial supports are far more limited to them than men.  Yet, women do the majority of the work in the field. Most men are only responsible for ploughing at the beginning of the season and rearing livestock, should the household take on such a project. Women, on the other hand, plant, weed, harvest, and are also usually the ones taking their products to market. On top of that, they're running the household. This includes daily maintenance/chores, food preparation, and child rearing, to name a few.

Now, I know, the above paragraph probably calls into question why I'm stating that International Women's Day gives one point to Uganda over Canada, the United States, or even the UK. Well, I'll tell you. While the above issues certainly leave much room for improvement, I'm writing this post from the comfort of my home in the middle of a work-week afternoon. Why, you ask? Because this day is recognized as a public holiday in Uganda - meaning it's a day off. Now, I get that even though this day has been declared a public day off, women across the country are still hard at work preforming their daily routine. This is especially true of those women in rural Uganda. But still, I will argue that the very notion that the Government here has chosen to recognize the significance of this day is a step up from what we, in the West, have.

I'm not saying that this makes us better or worse, either. But, this situation reminds me an awful lot of my experience of Eid al-Fitr (the end of Ramadan) in Ghana almost two years ago. I asked my host-Mom why everyone was celebrating, even though many were not Muslim. And her explanation was simple and still humbles me. She said - and I'm paraphrasing - that they celebrate with us at Christmas time, it's only fair we join them during their celebrations.

I have fielded many a question and comment about Africa being backwards, and that, my friends, doesn't seem so backwards to me. Globally, we have a long way to go on a number of issues. I don't think it's fair to claim one area isn't up to par with another because it doesn't necessarily mirror what we might identify success or progress with. BUT there's a reason I seek living on this continent for the long haul... and it's not because of the constant sunshine.

That being said, I think gender parity is only one of a range of inequities we need to close the gap on. Aside from the gender challenges, what about parity of race, religion, or sexuality? How is it 2016 and we're still dumbfounded on the same things we've - as a global society - been trying to solve for hundreds of years? When are we going to learn that despite these identifiers, we're all the same. No one is better or worse than anyone else, because well, why should those aspects matter in the grand scheme of things? This isn't to undermine their importance, but to highlight that at some point we're going to need to realize that none of those things makes a person harmful or a threat. It might make them a bit different from oneself, as far as our outlook or understanding of the world is concerned, but it doesn't make them wrong.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again, we all just need to take a breath and hug it out. And here's my favourite pep talk to get us through... Enjoy.

But to leave things a bit more positively, I'd like to wish all the wonderful ladies in my life, near and far, with me in presence or in spirit a Happy International Women's Day!

-the Orange Canadian

I Gotta Booboo!

Well, it finally happened - I had a legitimate boda incident. And, while it wasn't that serious, I did lose some skin, but had a good laugh all at once.

Before arrival in Uganda, I was warned against using the much-feared boda-boda, or motorcycle taxi. I get it, they are pretty dangerous, most drivers aren't overly cautious, and well, there aren't really rules to the road here... or at least to the 'strict' standards of Canadian driving regulations. And, for the most part, I avoided using bodas until it became absolutely necessary... and only when I had what I like to call my 'muzungu headgear' or what normal people refer to as a helmet*.

One of the most delightful parts of this mishap was the fact that I got to (WARNING: Gross content ahead) pick the skin from out of the fibres of the freshly torn hole in my pants. This incidentally leaves me now with only 2 pairs of pants... Also, the fact that this incident occurred because my driver drove my knee into a police truck... that was parked. I literally got spoked by the corner of a parked truck. Excellent. Another tick off the list!

But, all is well that ends well. I am safe, and back to fearlessly riding bodas! Oh - and I got my visa renewed**, so it all worked out!

-the Orange Canadian

*Now I often forget my helmet, and thus drive around like a madman!
**We were headed to the Kenyan Embassy when the "incident" occurred. 

The Rains Have Returned!

Well, I'm happy to report that rainy season has once again returned! I'm less happy to report that the dry season was shorter* than it traditionally has been. I mean, it was great not to have the dry heat last for too long, but environmentally, it's not a good thing.

You will probably have come to know that I love rain. I've tried many times to capture it, but it just never seems to do the real thing justice. But this morning, as I was waking at the wee hour of 5AM**, I was comforted by the sound of a light rainy pinging off my window. Soon it progressed into a much more intense storm, complete with thunder and lightening.

Then the biggest clap of thunder shook everything in my flat, and set off all the car alarms in the nearby area. And that was when I knew it was time to get up to see if I could capture it!

Like always, the film is either grainy or just really dark. You can hear the rain falling, birds chirping, and occasionally some thunder in the distance. But then I struck gold - a shot I have been trying to capture for years! Here are a few of the screenshots:

You can hear the thunder, and really get a good sense of the bolt's impact*** in the video. Again, it's not the best quality, but it will give you a fairly accurate idea of what I was witnessing.

Anyway, here's to the end of the dry season, and the unpredictability of Ugandan rainy season 2.0! It's also pretty great that this big rain cooled things down a bit. Earlier this week it was +30°C... and super humid! There's nothing worse than being uncertain of whether you're just sweating a lot, or you've wet yourself unknowingly. Now THERE'S an image to leave you with...

-the Orange Canadian

*There are two rainy seasons in Uganda - from March to May, and from September to November
**Don't ask...
***Do the "Mississippi count" in between!

A Failed Attempt at Snuggling Lions: A quick adventure in Entebbe

Last weekend marked our first post-election weekend, which meant Aaron and I were not housebound! Seeking a break from Kampala and our flat, we decided to finally make our way to Entebbe to see Reptile Village - something we'd been planning on doing since our arrival five months ago! However, after some research, we learned about a few other options, and decided to focus on those, rather than spending time with only reptiles. These alternatives included the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre and the Entebbe Botanical Gardens.

I will admit, I am not a fan of zoos. My dislike for these attractions is just that - they've become attractions rather than educational tools, as they were originally intended. This strong aversion to such places was solidified after a disappointing visit to the world renowned Zoo Atlanta a few years back. However, after a number of my local friends insisted I pay a visit, I decided to give in just this once. I was also assured that it was an education centre first and foremost.

The trip to Entebbe wasn't too bad. We took a taxi-van from Kampala, and the single trip lasted about 45 minutes with multiple stops along the way. We had debated between this mode of transport or taking bodas, which we were thankful we'd opted out of as it rained quite heavily along the way.

The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre began in 1952. Its mandate was to take in and care for animals that had been confiscated by smugglers. Today, it still maintains that mandate, only many of the animals found in the Centre were found at Entebbe Airport - the country's international airport. Other residents have been injured, abandoned, or were considered to dangerous too be in the wild.

Our arrival at the Education Centre was met with a massive group of small children. As you can imagine, this was not such a delightful welcome gift for me. But, luckily, we were able to bypass them for the most part! When we entered the park, we were greeted by a young man, a guide by the name of Bright. And with that, we began our adventure...

Aaron learned the hard way that such things bring on the small child in me... I think he was a bit scared.

Our first stop was at at the Queen Victoria Park exhibit, named after the animals found within its namesake. This area included zebras, waterbuck, and a four-year-old elephant named, Charles. Charles is a resident of the park that falls under the 'abandoned' category. He was found in the wild, without parents in sight. It is believed that his parents had been poached.

Charles is munching on some greens. Aaron did not seem impressed
at the level of enthusiasm I had when saying good-bye to him...

Next we visited the area that will eventually house cheetahs. At the moment there are more zebras and waterbuck, some antelope-esque friends, and a few ostriches.

There were plenty of other animals to view, including buffalo and even a reptile house that had various snakes! But then we stubbled upon the crocodile pen... there are two that live here, but we were only able to see one*. Bright informed us that the one we did see had been accused of munching on some of the locals from the area he was taken from. He was going to be killed, but instead the Centre rescued him. Next to the croc pen was a lone otter. He wasn't overly active. Both fall under the "animals that are jerks" category.

This little guy is approximately 50 years old. He came to the Centre after snacking on  7 or 8 humans.

And this sir, is separate from his 'lady friend' after he attempted
to eat their child... Someone's not getting Father of the Year!

After visiting the collection of not-so-nice residents, we made our way in search of something I'd never seen in real-life before - a gee-a-riff-y, also known as a giraffe. Unfortunately, the giraffe was in the distance, so we didn't get a great view but it was still pretty neat to see! There are two others at the Centre that are currently in the integration stage. However, along the way we found a really cool tree, and that, of course, required a photo-op.

Yes. I am wearing a MegaMan t-shirt. 

If you really squint, you can see the giraffe. He was pretty far away.

Next was a trip to Chimp Island. Here were saw a bunch of chimpanzees relaxing under the hot sun. They weren't overly playful, but it was really fun to watch them nonetheless. We also learned that when one celebrates its birthday, they put out a cake for them to enjoy! Lucky chimps! I want some birthday cake...

A few shots of Chimp Island. They actually cross a bridge each night to the house where they sleep.
Not gonna lie, I'm kind of considering joining them if this 'big girl job' thing doesn't work out...

The final stops included an aviary, which held a variety of birds, including shoebills. I don't have any shots of them as they were behind a mesh enclosure. They were pretty ugly**, but made a really nifty noise... like two clogs clunking together! There were plenty of other animals, as well, including two of my favourites - white rhinos, and LIONS!!!!!!

These rhinos are two of only 17 remaining in the country! 

Anyone who knows me will understand how excited I was to see this guys... well
guy and three gals! I love lions. It's my dream to snuggle one. Maybe next time...

Afterwards we took a quick 'forest walk' to escape the heat before parting ways with Bright. Then we made our way to the Botanical Gardens.

The Entebbe Botanical Gardens is just a short boda trip from the Wildlife Centre. It opened in 1901 and holds a variety of different plants, trees and flowers. It's also, apparently, where scenes from the original Tarzan series was filmed.

A view of the Gardens. That's Lake Victoria in the background!

A few other shots from inside.

What is, perhaps, most entertaining about this site isn't just the quietness of it all, or the enjoyable walk you take, but the monkeys!

Monkeys!

Aaron makes a friend.

So, when all is said and done, was I impressed with the Wildlife Centre? Kind of. For the most part, I found the enclosures were really small, and often inadequate. BUT, I appreciate that most of the animals have been spared otherwise unpleasant lives. My hope is that this is only a short term solution for them, though. And the Botanical Gardens, while beautiful, aren't really worth the USh10 000 (about CAD$4). But, if I were to return, I'd definitely pack a lunch and enjoy a quiet picnic!

For an alternative visual of our day, including some fun with monkeys, check out the video!

Not sure what the next adventure will bring, or when it will take place. It's becoming harder to believe how quickly these last five months have gone by. There's just a little under two months left of my internship, and I'm not really looking forward to parting ways with this beautiful country...

-the Orange Canadian

*Seriously, for much of the visit we were unable to see many of the animals. It was kind of like the initial run-though of Jurassic Park, BEFORE the T-Rex started eating people...
**But are actually kind of adorable once you look at them for a while!