Ssezibwa Falls in Uganda – Attractions and Background

Uganda’s hidden Cultural treasure

Located 32 kilometers from Kampala city along the main road between Kampala and Jinja in the District of Mukono, Ssezibwa Falls is a natural wonder formed by water passing through a narrow opening in rocks and cascading at a high speed of 17 meters into a deep pool that is approximately 14 meters deep. The vicinity surrounding the falls is an ideal spot for unwinding after an extensive wildlife safari in Uganda or prior to embarking on activities such as Whitewater rafting or bungee jumping at the source of the Nile River.

The term “Ssezibwa” is a local expression denoting “something endless”. The falls hold significant cultural and spiritual value for the Baganda people and are among the top attractions in Uganda. The management of the site falls under the Buganda culture and tourism department.

Characterized by sharp-edged rocks and a sizable pool below, Ssezibwa Falls sees the river Ssezibwa flowing all the way to Lake Kyoga. The area surrounding the falls is inhabited by small primates like Vervet and red-tailed monkeys, as well as snakes such as the African cobra, green mambas, and horned adder. Other wildlife species include otters, tadpoles, mongooses, and wild cats.

The Ssezibwa falls hold great significance in Buganda’s history, culture, and traditions. This cultural value enhances the allure and charm of the falls. According to Buganda folklore, there is a belief in the mystical powers of the Ssezibwa River. Legend has it that a woman named Nakangu Tebatuusa had a disagreement with her husband, Nsubuga Sebwaata, and returned to her parents’ home. Her father advised her to reconcile with her husband, and she was accompanied by her mother part of the way. As she neared her marital home, she grew weary and gave birth to twins in the form of water. Her husband eventually found her with the help of a man who had spotted her heading towards the forest. They discovered a pool of water flowing, which later split into two rivers known as Bwanda and Sezibwa.

Bwanda flowed towards the East to Nyenga at birth, while Sezibwa encountered numerous obstacles as it flowed towards the west. A spirit named Nalongo Nnkubo aided Sezibwa in overcoming these obstacles. As a result, shrines were constructed in the vicinity of the waterfalls to worship these spirits. In addition to Nalongo Kkubo, other deities such as Walumbe (god of death and life), Musoke (Rains), Ddungu (hunting), Kibuuka (war), Musisi (earthquakes), and Mukasa (fertility, wealth, and good health) are revered. The legend of Sezibwa and Bwanda has led to a high regard for twins in Buganda, with their birth being considered a special blessing and rituals performed to appease the gods. The parents of twins are given special names like Salongo (Father) or Nalongo (Mother). It was customary for anyone passing by the waterfalls to throw stones into the water for blessings.

The Kings (Kabakas) of Buganda used to visit this place to seek blessings and good health. During a journey between two of his palaces in 1889, Kabaka Mwanga planted a wild olive tree known as the Mwanga tree. This tree, which is now over 100 years old, was a testament to the captivating beauty of the waterfalls that enchanted him. King Muteesa II also planted a tree as a sign of respect and acknowledgment of the spiritual significance of the waterfalls and the river Ssezibwa. In 2002, King Ronald Mwenda Mutebi II visited the site to officially designate it as one of Buganda’s important tourism destinations.

The kings may not be present, but individuals from various regions of Uganda continue to visit the site in search of blessings from the deities for their well-being, employment, offspring, livelihoods, and loved ones. Traditional healers, known as medicine men, either call upon the gods or utilize indigenous herbs to treat ailments such as illnesses, toothaches, stomach discomforts, and skin conditions. Offerings made to gain the favor of the deities may consist of items like coffee beans, eggs, local brew, poultry, or livestock like sheep and goats. These animals and birds are sacrificed at the top of the waterfall before being cast down to satisfy the gods and nourish Ssezibwa. It is not uncommon to encounter deceased animals at the base of the falls.

It is worth mentioning that despite the prevalence of these cultural customs, the Anglican Church possesses some land in close proximity to the waterfalls. Followers of Christianity visit the region for spiritual retreats and contemplation. The same waters are utilized for conducting baptism ceremonies.