Kampala is the Ugandan capital city. The Ugandan capital has a population has a less than 1.5 million population. Kampala is Uganda's largest city and counts amongst the best cities in Africa. This one of the best African cities is at a height of 3,900 ft above sea level. Kampala has derived its name from Impala, a species of antelopes that flourished in the lush hills of Kampala. They were the hunting grounds for the Buganda King, Kabaka. During the time of the British, it was also counted as one of the best world cities.
The city was capital of Buganda kingdom, and ancient buildings include 1881 Kasubi Tombs, Buganda Parliament, Buganda Court of Justice and Naggalabi Buddo Coronation Site. Though immensely destroyed in the Uganda-Tanzania War, the city has been rebuilt, with new buildings such as hotels, banks, shopping malls, educational institutions, hospitals and improvement of war torn buildings and infrastructure. The campus of Makerere University, one of East and Central Africa premier institutes of higher learning, is in Makerere Hill area. Kampala also houses headquarters of East African Development Bank.
The hills of Kampala are Kasubi Hill with Kasubi Tombs of Kabakas. Mengo Hill with Kabaka's Palace and Headquarters of the Buganda Court of Justice. Kibuli Hill with Kibuli Mosque. Islam reached Uganda before the Protestant Christian missionaries did. Namirembe Hill with Namirembe Protestant Cathedral. Rubaga Hill with Rubaga Catholic Cathedral. Nsambya Hill Headquarters of Mill Hill Mission and now Nsambya Hospital. The little hill of Kampala, the hill of the Impala is where the ruins of Lugard's Fort were. Kampala got its name here. Suburbs include Kololo on Kololo Hill highest hill, home to Uganda Museum; Namirembe; Kibuli; Kabalagala; and Rubaga. Othe city hot spots are Ssezibwa Falls, Ugandan National Theatre, Owino Market - St. Balikuddembe Market and Nakasero Market. Kampala is also known for its nightlife, which includes a casino. Entebbe International Airport of Entebbe raid fame is at Entebbe, 35 km away.
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