History lies within nature. The Nakayima Tree holds a special story about Ndahura’s wife that goes back more than one hundred years. It is believed that Ndahura’s wife planted this tree. Ndahura was a local leader of the ancient Bachwezi people.
They were once ruled by King Bukuku, who wanted to cut off his daughter’s breasts to keep her away from men. However, his plan failed, and she ended up hiding in a cave, where she later became pregnant by Ndahura. Ndahura later ruled the Bachwezi dynasty after King Bukuku. This legend is closely tied to the Amabere Caves, a site rich in history and mythology located near Fort Portal.
Today, local people visit the Nakayima Tree to seek herbs, blessings, and use it as a place of worship.
The Nakayima Tree was planted on Mubende Hill, a place once ruled by one of the Chwezi kings. It is believed that King Ndahura lived on this land for a long time before his son Wamala took over.
If you ask many people in Uganda about Mubende, most will mention the Nakayima Tree, as it is the most well-known attraction in the area.
To this day, some people believe that the spirit of Ndahura still lives around the tree. They say he is behind smallpox and call him the “god of smallpox.”
Because of its history, people who believe in the old traditions named the tree based on many acts linked to witchcraft.
Delve deeper into local traditions and living culture by visiting the Isunga Cultural Community, which offers authentic experiences near Kibale.
One of the names is Nakayima, named after the woman who planted and protected it.
Some say that Nakayima was not only the tree’s protector but also a medium through which Ndahura’s spirit would speak to the people. During her encounters with the spirit, she would get smallpox, and when the spirit left her body, she would recover.
It is also said to have healed others with smallpox and other diseases that local herbalists could not treat. She even helped bless women who could not have children.
Always remember, the special tree is located at the top of Mubende Hill along the Kampala–Fort Portal highway. Feel free to stop by on your way to Kibale National Park.
Visit Kibale National Park in Uganda with these recommended Uganda chimpanzee companies or inquire with us below to book your tour directly through this website.
