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Lacking Power

Power cuts are a daily fact of life in Uganda so it's no surprise that power, or lack of power has affected the field study in subtle and not so subtle ways: power cuts during interviews; trying to gather data over the thumping soundtrack and fumes of a nearby generator; keeping laptops sufficiently charged - especially during the long hours of image batch processing; logging the different types of charging services offered by locals; and the strategies adopted by locals to make the most of what they have.

When the power is down guests can request the use of a back-up generator for10,000 Ugandan Shillings (1.5 Euro) per hour - enough for a small hotel. You'll be happy to know it can be charged to room service.

Thanks to our local guides here in Uganda - Julius, Rose, Tonny, Elizabeth and Titus - much appreciated.

Writing from Kampala | July 2, 2006 | Permalink