Mbale is a city in the Eastern Region of Uganda, located 245 kilometers northeast of Uganda’s capital, Kampala. The coordinates of the city are 1°04'50.0"N, 34°10'30.0"E (Latitude:1.080556; Longitude:34.175000). The city is on the railway from Tororo to Pakwach.
Mbale serves as the largest commercial and business center for the eastern region of Uganda. The town’s strategic location and accessibility via major road networks make it a prime destination for trade. Business people from Kenya and other parts of Uganda flock to Mbale for commerce, making it a buzzing economic hub.
Historical Background
By the end of the 19th century in 1900, the area known as Mbale was uninhabited, comprising of grasslands, forests, and marshlands. At this time, Semei Kakungulu had extended British rule, and he had curved out Bukedi covering Bugwere, Budama, Bukedea, Bunyole, Sebei, and Mbale with the headquarters at Budaka. However, in 1903, the British directed Semei Kakungulu to transfer the administration offices from Budaka, further east. Kakungulu then moved the headquarters from Budaka to the current Mbale District.
The Baganda at first named the place Kalungu in Luganda meaning a deserted place (Source: Municipal Archives). Later Kakungulu named this area Mbale, after a small village in Buganda, however, the indigenous people claim that this area was named after a rock found in the area (Source: Municipal Archives). Mbale means a rock in the local dialect.
In 1906 it was gazetted as a regional centre, and by 1951, the town had built modern Offices on plot 62-68, on what is now called Republic Street.
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Elevation to City Status
Mbale was the first town to be granted Official status as a municipal council on the 01st day of March, 1962, which was before independence declaration. Mbale was among the cities created in the first phase on 01st July, 2020.
The Ugandan Vision 2040 identified creation of regional and strategic cities as one of the key drivers for the development agenda of the country‟s long term aspirations and projections for the future. In effect, on the 20th day of May, 2019, Uganda‟s Cabinet approved the phased creation of 15 cities across the country. Mbale was among them.
Backed by resolutions from respective District Councils, the Ministry of Local Government presented bills in Parliament seeking a phased upgrading of some urban areas. Subsequently on the 28th day of April, 2020, parliament approved the creation of 15 new cities. Mbale was among the seven which became operational on the 1st day of July, 2020. Mbale City became operational on the 01st day of July 2020. Today Mbale City is the fourth largest town supported by both private and public sectors.
The regional city of Mbale has been the centre for delivery of statutory services which were hitherto concentrated in Kampala and which the residents used to access at a very high cost and inconvenience.
Population
According to the 2002 census, the population of Mbale was about 71,130. In 2010, the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) estimated the population at 81,900.
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| Year | Population |
|---|---|
| 2002 | 71,130 |
| 2010 | 81,900 |
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Tourist and Cultural Hub
Mbale is blessed with a variety of natural and cultural attractions that make it a significant tourist destination in Uganda. One of Mbale’s most prominent attractions is Mount Elgon National Park, which straddles the border between Uganda and Kenya. The park is famous for its extensive caves, waterfalls, and the world’s largest volcanic caldera.
A visit to the Kakoro Rock Paintings takes tourists back in time, offering a glimpse into the ancient artistry of early inhabitants. Found about 5 kilometers east of Mbale Town, the Bufumbo and Wanale Forest Reserves sit atop breathtaking ridges. These forests offer a serene retreat for nature lovers and hikers. Approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Mbale Town lie the stunning Bulegeni and Butandinga Cliffs and Ridges. The Bulukyeke - Bukigai Hills hold historical significance as a colonial-era campsite.
Mbale is rich in cultural heritage, with several important sites offering insights into the traditions of the Bamasaba people. The Semei Kakungulu Tombs, located about 5 kilometers along the Mbale-Soroti Road, are an important landmark. Located in Sironko County, Simu and Sisiyi Falls are breathtaking waterfalls that attract nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Mbale City is not just an economic powerhouse but also a rich cultural and tourism hub in Eastern Uganda. From its bustling marketplaces to the serene beauty of its natural landscapes, it has something to offer both residents and visitors.
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