Construction in Uganda

The few trips outside of the training facility that we have been able to go on, have left me wondering why there are so many half constructed buildings. I’ve seen these types of buildings in Kampala, the country capital, and also in Mokono, our closest town. I was told it was because Ugandan dream big. They get some money and want to build a large, beautiful structure, but nearly always run out of funds before they have finished. Then they just leave it as is, and tenants move into the lower floors. I asked why they didn’t build something they can afford and was told that nobody wants to construct a small building. Seems strange to me. I would rather have a competed one or two story structure rather than a third floor that was open to the sky. 

Here is our closest grocery store. They seem to have everything you need. I bought peanut butter, saltines, a Sprite, and nail polish remover; while I’m in training I really don’t need anything, just went to see what I could see. Took me an hour to walk there, but when you are operating on Ugandan time, that’s pretty good! Also note in the picture, this is a two lane road, but most time they drive three and four across. There is no regard for staying in one's own lane and the motorcycles will drive anywhere! 

This Saturday we leave for a month of home-stay/language immersion training. I can’t wait to get out to the west! I’m told it is very beautiful. On a clear day you can see the snow topped mountains. I am also told it is cold. Of course, I packed thinking I was going to a country that straddled the equator. No way was I going to be cold, but I have to admit, even here in Mokono, at night, I am cold. 

We have started language training. In the west, they speak Runyoro-Rotooro. They roll their r’s like the Spanish, which I am not very good at. Hopefully, I will be able to pronounce a few phrases properly, but I am off to a shaky start!

Siiba kurungi!  (stay well)