Uganda May 2012

I have just returned from a trip to Uganda to do some training with the Makerere University Walter Reed Project (MUWRP).  We were invited to so some training in providing healthcare to men who have sex with men (MSM).  This was an amazing invitation; homosexuality is illegal in Uganda and a recent bill has been debated promoting the death penalty for gay men.  Many MSM live in fear and remain hidden which of course makes them invisible to the healthcare service.  The staff we trained were an inspiration.  They were open minded, lively in debate and willing to expand their horizons.    Everyone we met was friendly and generally very helpful.  Uganda has a long way to go in this particular sphere of human rights but our on-the-ground experience was fabulous.

Unfortunately I forgot to take my camera, so I have only a few mobile phone pics.

This is the entrance to the training site.

My hotel room was at the Villa Kololo which shares space with one of the best restaurants in Kampala, lot of ambience, lots of noise, little sleep.

The traffic is nuts, I suppose there must be rules, but I could't work them out.  "The bravest has right of way" seems to be the primary rule.  Size matters too.  The motorcycles are for hire, are un-lisenced and seem a quick way to loose life or limb.

I tried to take some "street shots" from the back of a 4X4 double cab on potholed roads which has made for some blurry pics.  Lots of color, activity and industry.  Poverty and lack of infrastructure planning evident everywhere too.

We were taken to see Mulago Hospital, Makerere University Campus and the School of Veterinary Science; a mix of beautiful vegetation and crumbling, neglected buildings.  Nature is definitely more inspiring than man in this site of learning.

Overall a unique and enjoyable experience.  I would love the chance to go back and spend some time touring.  So close but so far, no time to visit the bush!