Uganda is an ideal spot for buying African handicrafts. In almost every village, the locals are skilled in creating both traditional and modern arts and crafts. These hand-worked items are of a rather high standard. Made by women, craftsmen and sometimes by individual tribes, most articles are of a practical nature. They often come in beautiful patterns and colours that are typical of the local culture.
You can take your pick of paintings, Ugandan guitars, drums and many other unique gifts in Jinja.
Our Jinja Shopping Guide below tells you all about the shopping to be had in Jinja, as well as some recommended shopping places. You will also find a good selection of Jinja restaurants amongst the shopping areas which are ideal for a shopping break. You should also check out our Uganda Shopping Guide for more shopping ideas throughout the country.
Jinja Shopping Guide
Local Handicrafts
Some of the more popular handicrafts in Jinja include musical instruments from Busoga and West Nile, multi-coloured mats with traditional patterns from Buganda, baskets and raffia bowls from Ankole and Toro, and the legendary drums of Buganda. Many of these handicrafts are made using the raw materials and natural components of Uganda - gemstones, palm leaves and banana fibre, papyrus and local grasses, seeds, woods and horn, local leathers and skins.
Yet another famous Jinja souvenir is the bark cloth, derived from the Omutuba tree, and used for making hats, cushions and mats. Jewellery, worn both by the men and women, are made from a wide choice of materials. The areas surrounding Karamoja yield quaint wood carvings; in fact, they figure among Uganda's typical souvenirs.
Handicrafts can be picked up in many of the roadside stalls and in almost every village market. However, if you're looking for a wide range, you may want to try the shops in Jinja town centre. If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, you can get one of the local craftsmen to design something especially for you.
Markets
Jinja's Central Market, one of the best in Africa, is the perfect place to witness the lifestyle of the local people and to understand the dynamics and equations of various cultures. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, without being intrusive. For shoppers seeking unusual items at low prices, the enchanting market in Jinja with its winding alleys and lanes are a great find. The T-shirts in particular are a great bargain.
Shops in Jinja
You'll also find many shops in Jinja selling an assortment of souvenirs and artefacts at very affordable rates. There are also a large number of supermarkets and specialised shops. Along Main Street, you'll find a number of interesting craft shops and nice cafés. They have a large variety of ethnic goods from Uganda, as well as many imported items from Kenya and other places.
Welcome and meet the hardworking team from The Far Horizon, your local connection in Jinja, Uganda, the adventure capital of East Africa! We are a local, friendly and experienced team working in Jinja and are ready to provide you with an authentic Ugandan holiday!
