Sezibwa Falls
The Sezibwa Falls are approximately 20 miles (32 km), east of Kampala, Uganda’s capital, along the Kampala-Jinja Highway. The site is a Buganda Heritage Site. It is marked with an out-span of sharp-edged rocks and the magnificent sound of soothing waters flowing down the steep ridged stones. The Falls are located in Mukono District.
According to traditional legend, the two rivers named Sezibwa and its brother Bwanda, were born by a woman on her way to Kavuma Bukunja. The woman,Nakkungu Tebatuusa whose husband was calledNsubuga Sebwaato, gave birth to twins in form of water, whereupon Sezibwa flowed west, passing many obstacles and deriving its name, while Bwanda flowed east, toward Nyenga. Many people come to the place for miracles as they believe the site has supernatural powers. The falls are 7 metres (23 ft) high.Rock Climbing and bird watching are the main activities at the site. Geoligists and other Scientists also frequent the site. Wildlife in the surrounding forest includes Bush monkeys, red-tailed monkey and other Primates and Birds.
Background History of Sezibwa
The Ssezibwa falls are an important part of Buganda’s history, culture and beliefs. This cultural importance adds to the mystery and attractiveness of the falls. The Baganda believe in the supernatural powers of the river Ssezibwa. A Buganda Legend has it that a woman (Nakangu Tebatuusa) had an issue with her husband (Nsubuga Sebwaata) and left her marital home to her parents. Her dad told her to go back to her husband and sort out their marital issues. She was escorted by her mother who left her close to her home. As she approached her marital home, she got tired and as she rested, gave birth to birth to twins in form of water. He husband found her after being led by a man who had seen her go to the bush. They saw a pool of water flowing which became the two rivers named Bwanda and Sezibwa.
At birth Bwanda flowed towards the East to Nyenga while Sezibwa flowed towards the west meeting many obstacles. He was helped by a spirit (Nalongo Nnkubo) through the obstacles. This Spirits settled in the area around the waterfalls and shrines where built to worship them. Apart from Nnalongo Kkubo other gods include Walumbe (god of death and life), Musoke (Rains), Ddungu (hunting), Kibuuka (war), Musisi (earthquakes) and Mukasa (fertility, wealth and good health). Because of this legend, twins are highly valued in Buganda. Their birth is looked upon as a special blessing and rituals were performed to appease the gods. The parents are given special names like Salongo (Father) or Nalongo (Mother). It was tradition for everyone passing close to the waterfalls to throw stones into the water for blessings.
The Kings (Kabakas) of Buganda used to come to this place to seek blessings and good health. Kabaka Mwanga planted a wild olive tree known as Mwanga tree while on a journey between two of his palaces in 1889. This tree is over 100 years old. He was spell-bound by the natural beauty of the waterfalls and decided to stay in the area for some time with his servants. While leaving, he planted a tree to honor the gods of the falls. Cultural. Later King Muteesa II also planted a tree as a mark of respect and recognition of the spiritual importance of the waterfalls and river Ssezibwa. King Ronald Mwenda Mutebi II paid a visit the place in 2002 to commission it as one of Buganda’s important tourism sites.
The kings aside, people from all over Uganda still flock to the place to seek blessings from the gods for their health, jobs, children, business and families. The medicine men (traditional healer) invoke the gods or use local herbs to cure diseases, toothache, stomach upsets and skin diseases. Sacrifices to win the favor of the gods may include coffee beans, eggs, local beer, chicken or animals like sheep and goats. The animals and chicken are killed on top of the falls and then dropped down to appease the gods and feed Ssezibwa. Do not be shocked if you find dead animals at the foot of the falls. It is interesting to note that although these cultural practices thrive here, the Anglican church owns some land close to the waterfalls. Christians come to the area for retreats and meditation. Baptism services are performed in the same waters.
Activities around the Ssezibwa Falls
Hiking and Climbing Rocks: This involves a hike on top of the fall where you will be able to see the River Sezibwa forcefully flowing down the rocks and escaping through the dense trees and bushes. The hike may be challenging for those who are not fit but the final reward is great views of the waterfalls and surrounding scenery. You may even spot lizards and other creatures along the way
Nature Walks arguably the most attractive activity after viewing the beautiful falls. The surrounding forests are the first place to go to. The main trees types are bamboo, Muvule, Musizi, Mahogany, fig, Eucalyptus and Ebony trees. The area also has a lot of bushes and shrubs. With the help of a local Guide, you will also spot more birds, butterflies and small primates. The walk can be prolonged to include visits to local farms and plantations (sugarcane and tea) in the surrounding areas. International tourists are charged about $4. This amount is used to pay the Guide and the balance for forest conservation efforts.
Birdwatching:
The area surrounding the Ssezibwa waterfalls is covered by a forest which is a sanctuary to over 50 bird species. Birders will find the place very amazing. Just at the foot of he falls one can spot African Finfoot and the Long-tailed Cormorant enjoying a swim. The other species within and around the falls include the African Finfoot, African Grey Hornbill, African Paradise Fly Catcher, Ashy Fly Catcher, Black-necked Weaver, Blue-spotted Wood Dove, Bronze Mannikin, Dark-capped Bulbul, Emerald Cuckoo, Fan-tailed Widowbird etc
Photograph:
If you are looking for a place to take great photos, then the Sezibwa falls could just be the place you are looking for. Apart from the waterfalls, the beautiful green environment, rocks and trees look good on the camera. You could take photos while playing games within the gardens across the bridge or of the monkeys during the nature walks
