Explore the Kisiizi Waterfalls | Uganda
Explore the Kisiizi Waterfalls | Uganda : The waterfalls are approximately 30 meters high on the Rushoma River that pours into Lake Edward. This pretty waterfall has a gory history whereby pregnant unmarried Bakiga girls were punished to death. This practice was discontinued and what had been a place of despair became a place of hope and healing. As a result, the Church of Uganda established Kisiizi Hospital in 1958. You can as well visit these falls while on your gorilla safaris, wildlife safaris, birding tours, etc.
Cultural history of Kisiizi falls
Generally, these falls are believed to have contributed to the good morals of the unmarried Bakiga girls in the area. When a girl got pregnant out of wedlock, the father and brother would escort her to the top of these falls. While here, they could release her to fall off the cliff where she would meet her death. This was basically done to scare off other girls from engaging in premarital sex that often lead to pregnancy. As a result, this ensured girls to stay virgins until marriage.
It is alleged that a young pregnant lady was brought to the top of the cliff to be pushed down the waterfalls as usual. Little did they know she had a plan, when the brother and father pushed her. In the process, she held unto them and the three fell to their death. Later, the practice was stopped because they realized more girls would pull their brothers or fathers down the same path.
Activities done around Kisiizi falls
Bird watching at Kisiizi falls
Because of the ever present water and trees in the area, there are numerous birds one can locate in the area. In fact, these birds use the area for breeding while others enjoy the presence of food. Some of the birds seen in this area include; Scarlet chested sunbird, African black headed oriole. Haddad Ibis, Black kite, African firefinch, African harrier hawk, African paradise fly-catcher. African pied wagtail, African pygmy kingfisher, Nubian woodpecker, Augur buzzard, Black headed weaver.
Black-winged red bishop, Ross’s turaco, Bronze mannequin, Double toothed barbet. Emerald-spotted wood-dove, Grey crowned crane, Grey heron, Speckled mouse bird, Hamerkop. Lesser striped swallow, Yellow mottled widow birds, Long crested eagle, Mackinnon’s fiscal, Malachite kingfisher. Pied crow, Purple-breasted sunbird, Ring necked dove, Rufus chested swallow. White browed robin chat, Yellow-backed weaver, Yellow-billed stork, etc.
Forest walks at Kisiizi falls
There is a small forest surrounding Kisiizi falls whereby one can take a picnic in the area. You can also take a short forest hike for beautiful views of the Kigezi hills and valleys. One of the good views is hiking up the Kisiizi falls and watching them from the top and the surrounding area.
Community experiences around Kisiizi falls
Kisiizi is occupied by the Bakiga tribe and while in this place you have an opportunity to visit a local family and interact with them. Visit their gardens them and learn about the farming methods thereby harvesting food. You can as well get involved in preparing a local dish which you will also partake of. While in their homes, you will hear stories of the local traditions and how these have changed over the years.
