Embarking on my journey from Uganda to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, exploring cultural adaptation and the beauty of diverse landscapes.
The decision to move from Uganda to Côte d’Ivoire marked a pivotal moment in my life. It introduced me to the exhilarating yet daunting experience of living in a foreign country for the first time. As I settled into my new home, I often heard locals say “Akwaba” (Welcome). It is a phrase that became a source of comfort and reassurance during the challenging times.
Uganda, the Pearl of Africa:
Before making the move, I had called Uganda home for many years. Its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm people were my identity. Leaving behind the familiarity of Kampala, the bustling capital city, and the serene beauty of Lake Victoria was difficult. But, I was determined to embrace the unknown.
Journey to Côte d’Ivoire:
I came to Ivory coast on the 1st July 2019, not so long ago. Booking a flight and securing accommodation through Airbnb marked the beginning of my adventure. As the plane took off from Entebbe International Airport, I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. The long journey finally ended with a warm welcome from the taxi driver who drove me to my new home. Luckily for me, I met a french speaking person on the plane. Together, we booked a taxi from the airport, he proceeded to where he was attending a training, while the taxi dropped me off to where i was to have my lodging. Unfortunately, I had a mix-up in booking an AirBnB so I ended up in a lodge for the first two nights. At this point in time, I wasn’t sure I would find Ugandans in Ivory Coast.
Language the first shock:
My very first shock was not actually the language but the heat wave that washed onto my face on getting off the plane. But soon I realised that language was also going to be a hard one. I had had a small encounter with French in highschool but German had turned out to be my love. And yet here I was in a french speaking country. Later on I learnt that the locals at the airport can speak english but they generally have a feeling that les anglophones ne fait pas d’efforts pour apprendre le francais. In Fact it is true, the French are more obliged to learn English as they try to have encounters with the wider English speaking world.
Community:
I had lonely moments in Abidjan, the first Christmas was terrible I had almost sunk into depression. But what can be more important than having a community to belong to. I met a group of Ugandans, many of whom we worked together and these became family. Even when covid hit, it didn’t feel lonely anymore. I also met locals who dragged me to wherever the party was happening, we went to spiritual places as well as Marquis to eat local food. It took me a while to get used to the local cuisine , but hey I loved the fish. I also met people from the east african community. I can’t underscore the importance of belonging to some form of community. It’s very important
Cultural Exploration:
Immersing myself in the vibrant culture of Côte d’Ivoire presented both challenges and rewards. Navigating language barriers and embracing new social customs required patience and adaptability. Engaging with locals and exploring the country’s rich history and diverse landscapes provided invaluable insights into my new home. Some must-visit places include:
– The iconic Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro, a marvel of modern architecture
– The vibrant markets of Abidjan, where colorful textiles and local crafts come alive
– The stunning waterfalls of Man, a natural wonder surrounded by lush greenery
– The historic town of Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich colonial past
– The beautiful beaches of Assinie, perfect for relaxation and soaking up the sun
Adapting to Daily Life:
Adjusting to the rhythm of daily life in Côte d’Ivoire required flexibility and resilience. Learning to navigate transportation systems, adapting to unfamiliar norms, and establishing routines helped ease the transition. Seeking support from expatriate communities and connecting with fellow Africans who understood the challenges of living abroad proved invaluable. But i must say, that the discpline and order I witnessed in the transport system of Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire is none like i had witnessed before.
Weather:
Côte d’Ivoire’s tropical climate was a significant adjustment from Uganda’s more temperate weather. The country is huge so the weather conditions in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, may not be the same in other parts at any specific time. The country experiences two main seasons: the dry season from December to May and the rainy season from June to November. The temperatures range from 22°C to 32°C (72°F to 90°F) throughout the year, with high humidity levels. The coastal regions tend to be cooler than the inland areas, and the mountainous regions experience a milder climate. Understanding the weather patterns helped me prepare for the heat and humidity, and I learned to appreciate the refreshing rainfall during the rainy season.
Doing Business in Côte d’Ivoire:
As I settled into my new life, I became curious about the local business landscape. I discovered that Côte d’Ivoire is a hub for entrepreneurship, with many locals engaged in various ventures. Some popular business activities include:
– Agriculture: Côte d’Ivoire is known for its cocoa production, and many locals are involved in farming and trading
– Trade: The country’s strategic location makes it an important hub for trade, with many locals engaged in import and export businesses
– Services: The growing economy has created a demand for services like FOOOOD, hospitality, transportation, and IT
– Crafts: Local artisans are renowned for their skills in textiles, woodcarvings, and other crafts
Some tips for doing business in Côte d’Ivoire include:
– Building relationships and trust with local partners and clients
– Understanding the local culture and customs
– Being adaptable and flexible in a rapidly changing environment
– Taking advantage of the country’s strategic location for trade and investment
Leaving Behind Loved Ones:
Despite the excitement of my new adventure, moments of homesickness inevitably arose as I longed for the familiarity of Uganda and cherished memories with loved ones. Staying connected through technology, maintaining traditions, and forming meaningful friendships helped alleviate feelings of longing and fostered a sense of connection to both my past and present.
Embracing Growth and Resilience:
Moving from Uganda toAbidjan, Côte d’Ivoire as a first-timer was a transformative journey that tested my resilience and pushed me out of my comfort zone. Embracing the unknown with an open heart and mind ultimately led to personal growth, deepened cultural understanding, and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of diversity. As I look back on my journey, I’m reminded of the local phrase “Côte d’Ivoire, mon amour” (Côte d’Ivoire, my love) – a phrase that reflects the love and pride that locals have for their country.
My journey from Uganda to Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Should you want more information about Cote D’Ivoire, visit:
I have also written another article on going back home
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