Kabaka’s Lake Uganda
Kabaka’s Lake | Uganda’s Largest Manmade Lake: it was constructed in 1880 by the 52 tribes of Buganda under the orders of “Kabaka Mwanga II” who was the king by then. This Lake is located in Kampala City, in Rubaga division in Ndeeba. It is between the ring road and the Nabunga road and covers over 2 km2with a depth of about 200 feet.
Why the Lake was constructed
Though most of the people obeyed the king, the parish chiefs, prince and princesses refused to adhere to the command. The king was annoyed when he heard of this so he went and joined his people to dig. However, the action embarrassed the royals compelling them to join the dig. The Kabaka wanted the lake to be a channel connecting to Lake Victoria. This was for easy access to his other palace built in Mulungu hill by his father Kabaka Muteesa II before his death. Besides, he also wanted it to act as an escape corridor during the British armed conflicts in Buganda.
The Kabaka was a rather callous and notorious king; he wanted to be the only leader the civilians followed. When he heard that there were Baganda (Uganda Martyrs) worshiping a different King called God, he had them killed. This stirred up religious wars in Buganda that abruptly interrupted the construction before the lake was connected to Munyonyo. Besides, the environment around the lake has magnificent views with frequent surrounding air. It has also got two small islands which have green vegetation and trees which are home to bird nests creating a beautiful scenery.
What to do at Kabaka’s Lake
Explore the Kabaka’s palace
The Lake is adjacent to the Kabaka’s Palace also known as “Twekobe” which means working together. The 52 clans of Buganda came together again to build the palace in 1922 during the reign of Kabaka Daudi Chwa. Though the palace was destroyed in 1966 due to civil wars in the region, the ruins are still a beautiful sight to explore. With the help of a guide, you can also visit the torture chambers where former President Idi Amin would take his enemies.
Birding
The lake is a birding paradise with numerous bird species as most of them are seen floating on water. Some of these include; Egrets, Crested crane, King fishers, African jacana, Egyptian goose, African fish eagle, etc. It has also become a relaxing place for people who sit here as they listen to sounds of birds.
Canoeing
Here, you will enjoy a canoe ride operated by the locals. While on the canoe, you will enjoy the beautiful scenery of the islands in the middle of the lake and also spot a number of bird species.
Fishing
Fishing is one of the most activities since the lake has got a number of fish species. These include; Nile tilapia, mud fish, lung fish, not to mention but a few. With the help of the guide, you will head to the lake where to interact with the fishermen about the different fishing methods. You will also be given a chance to participate in this activity depending on your interest.
How to get there
The lake is 5 kilometers from the Kampala Capital City situated in Ndeeba between Nabunga Road and Ring Road.
