Things to Do in Independence Monument

Kampala sprawls across seven hills with ~3 million people creating controlled chaos. Uganda's capital mixes modern buildings, traditional markets, and colonial architecture in ways that somehow work. The city pulses with energy. Independence Monument anchors the downtown area, commemorating Uganda's 1962 freedom from British rule. Gregory Maloba's bronze sculpture shows a woman breaking chains while lifting a child skyward—the symbolism hits hard. Locals still gather here for celebrations.

Street food here is excellent. Vendors around taxi parks serve authentic matoke (steamed bananas), posho, and fresh tilapia for almost nothing. The flavors are bold and clean. The Indian community left a lasting food legacy—you'll find excellent curry houses throughout the city. Upscale restaurants in Kololo and Nakasero offer continental cuisine and modern Ugandan dishes. Coffee culture runs deep since Uganda produces excellent beans.

Kampala sits near the equator. Temperatures hover around 20-25°C (68-77°F) year-round with little variation. Dry seasons from December to February and June to August bring less humidity and fewer afternoon downpours. Rain rarely lasts all day, and the city looks better when everything turns green. Traffic gets worse during rainy season as roads flood regularly. Hotel prices drop though, and for Independence Day celebrations around October 9th, the monument area becomes genuinely festive.