Jinja is one of Uganda’s most well-known and visited cities. Located in the eastern part of the country, it is about a 2-3 hour drive from Kampala, provided that the heavy traffic between Mukono and the outskirts of Kampala allows it.
Historically, Jinja was the most industrialized city due to the hydroelectric dam along the Nile River.
However, following the expulsion of Asians in the late 1970s by Ugandan dictator Idi Amin Dada, the city’s economy took a significant hit. The inefficient management of industries by Ugandans who replaced the Asians contributed to the economic decline, and Jinja has never fully recovered its former industrial glory.
On the other hand, other cities benefited from the supply of hydroelectric power. Examples include Kampala, the capital, and the Mbarara district, currently the country’s main industrial centres.
In some of our tours, we include visits to Jinja, where travellers can see the source of the White Nile and enjoy thrilling rafting on the river’s rapids. We also enjoy introducing our clients to “Petits Detalls,” a charitable initiative that we actively support. This project is located near Jinja, specifically in the town of Iganga.