More than a Mountain…
Masaba, that’s how Mount Elgon is known in Uganda. It has great significance for the people who live on its slopes, on the ridges and in the valleys.
For the Bagisu people, for example, their creation story tells of their ancestors arising out of the mountain. “When you speak of Mount Elgon, it is part of our hearts”, is how one elder put it.
People depend on its rich volcanic soil for their food and cash crops, and life is made possible by the numerous streams that flow down the mountain.
Visiting the mountain presents many opportunities for interacting with the people, more than half of whom are under 15!
More than a Greeting…
Tired of hearing “Muzungu, how are you?”!
We encourage you to interact with the people in a meaningful way. An afternoon spent talking to the elders, or reading with the kids, or drinking the local brew in the company of the people can potentially open the door to greater understanding.
If you are in the Budadiri area (Sasa trail-head) and would like to know about such opportunities, simply drop us a note. We’d be more than happy to help you connect with the people. It’s easier than you might think!
Community Tours Around Mount Elgon National Park