Kampala Native's Journey: From Uganda's Red Dust to Riyadh's Ambition and Resilience

Esther Ninshaba, a journalist and traveler from Uganda, recently journeyed to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for the Sixteenth Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, an opportunity facilitated by the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs of Uganda.

Upon arrival, Ninshaba was struck by the stark contrasts between her home in Kampala and the desert capital. Saudi Arabia’s approach to resilience deeply impressed her, moving beyond mere policy to a lived reality shaped by centuries of adaptation to a harsh environment.

She observed a nation that not only thrives despite its geographical limitations but actively leverages them, positioning itself as a global leader in climate change discussions and securing major international events. This strategic approach challenged her perception of what’s possible when vision meets determination.

Riyadh itself presented a unique urban landscape, which Ninshaba initially dubbed ‘the city of cars without people’ due to its vast, vehicle-centric infrastructure, a stark difference from Kampala’s bustling pedestrian life. However, she soon discovered the city’s vibrant evening hubs, revealing a population with palpable ambition and forward momentum.

A pivotal moment occurred on her fourth night, during which she experienced a profound, personal divine encounter. This moment of introspection, coupled with the lessons learned at COP16 and the quiet strength of the Saudi people, prompted a deep internal shift, inspiring her to look beyond personal comfort and appreciate the power of purpose.

Ninshaba concludes that Saudi Arabia’s progress, from its historical foundations to its modern transformation, is a testament to courage, vision, and a refusal to stand still. Her journey underscored the growing ties between Uganda and Saudi Arabia and the potential for shared growth, highlighting that honoring one’s roots while pursuing ambitious goals, backed by strategic thinking and collective effort, can indeed turn impossible dreams into reality.

Her experience serves as a powerful reminder to pause, look inward, and acknowledge untapped potential for proactive preparation for life’s inevitable unexpected journeys. She extends her gratitude to the Government of Uganda, the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for fostering such enriching global learning opportunities.