This eight day, seven night retreat unfolds between the shores and islands of Lake Victoria.

Known to the Baganda people as Nalubaale, or “Mother of the Guardian Gods,” these 59,000 square miles of lucid and powerful feminine waters are believed to be the birthplace of all deities and to hold powers of transformation and divination.

Here, nested in the birthplace of humanity, societies have developed distinctive ways of seeing, knowing, doing, and caring for life. Alive in themselves, all eco-cultures adapt with the landscape and the lives that pass through them. Local stories, arts and economies are the expression of these relationships.

Connection in Times of Fracture. Great change is upon us. Our global systems of social order, economic prosperity and land management are failing us. Our ability to navigate the needed changes in the coming years will determine our fate.

There are ways to navigate uncertain times. These ways are found in indigenous wisdom.

“Indigenous Commons is a circle for healing; for power. We can identify medicine of consequence in our local context and initiate it to the world.” - Emem Okon - Indigenous Commons Guardian of Kebetkache Women of the Niger Delta

At Kinship Return Nalubaale, we have distinct goals and objectives designed to make your experience truly exceptional:

Indigenous Technology

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) is recognized as the most effective approach to climate stability and biodiversity. Join us to explore the tools and approaches that enable TEK such as analytical, contemplative and ritual approaches that help humanity relate to nature and navigate change.

Contemplative Engagement:

Delve into art and play that explores the profound questions of our time. Our retreat is a space to invite grace, wisdom, and adventure into both your spirit and intellect. It's an opportunity for self-discovery, and personal growth.

Sensory Exploration:

Immerse yourself in a culinary journey like no other. Our gourmet food is sourced in a way that forms a deep connection with the wild and cultivated land surrounding us. Guided by local and western herbalists you'll engage in a sensory experience that connects you with the essence of the region.

During the retreat, you'll have the opportunity to connect with Indigenous Guardians, sharing in activities that promise deep and meaningful experiences. Participate in meditative sessions and insightful Dhamma discussions, ensuring your journey is as enriching as it is purposeful.

We will gather at The Uganda Buddhist Center, a serene oasis dedicated to the practice of Buddhism and mindfulness. Set amidst lush surroundings, it offers a peaceful escape for meditation, contemplation, and spiritual growth. This tranquil haven welcomes seekers from around the world to explore the teachings of Buddhism and find inner peace.  

Don't miss the chance to visit the UBC's sprawling 12-acre farm, teeming with coffee, potatoes, tomatoes, cassava, and more. Witness the coffee growing process, harvest cassava from the ground, and immerse yourself in the local way of life, just 15 kilometers from the temple. As an additional delight, we proudly cultivate moringa on the premises. 

This retreat is not just a getaway; it’s a transformative quest. It's an opportunity for personal exploration, connection, and transformation where you'll not only discover a deeper connection with the world around you but also play a vital role in supporting an initiative that is making a difference. Your presence matters, and the change begins with you.  

“This is a great opportunity to organize better as an emerging movement of solidarity amongst indigenous peoples and their allies. And to offer a space that is in alignment with our ways of being, to invite in our brothers and sisters….The integration between indigenous peoples is very important in these times. It would be a great dream for all of us to be united at last in our demands as nations in peace, solidarity and coherence.”  - Demer Gonzales - Indigenous Commons Guardian, President of the Shipibo-Conibo people

We hope that you'll fall in love with Uganda and forge a deep connection with the land, culture, and people. We aspire for you to become a part of this journey perpetually, embracing the spirit of our retreat even beyond your time with us.

Moreover, we encourage a spirit of generosity and collaboration. Your presence at Kinship Return not only enriches your life but also uplifts the lives of those you meet here.  This will not be the first offering of this type, an offering that you give to yourself and all life at the same time.

Nalubaale can be a once in a lifetime experience or the genesis of an Ancient Wisdom Sabbatical. This series begins in Africa with Nalubaale, then traces a way to Ireland for where European indigeneity is still embodied in the land and customs. It culminates with an unlearning journey with Diné leader, Woman Stands Shining Pat McCabe, on Turtle Island in the place called New Mexico around the time of the Fall Equinox.

Looking ahead, we dream of you wanting to share this incredible experience with your friends and loved ones. It's our hope that you'll be excited to bring your friends along for the next retreat in Ireland in August 2024. Our retreats are more than just events; they are opportunities to create lasting bonds and make a positive impact.

Join us on this transformative journey in Uganda, and together, let's fall in love with the guardians of this and other remarkable places, forge lifelong connections, make meaningful contributions, and prepare for an equally enchanting retreat in Ireland and Turtle Island.

Your extraordinary journey begins here.

Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe welcomes you to embark on a profound and transformative journey with Kinship Return Uganda. This captivating city, known for its rich cultural tapestry, invites you to discover the essence of indigenous wisdom and the power of healing.

With a history deeply rooted in the traditional ways of life, Entebbe offers a haven for those seeking to rekindle their reciprocal relationship with the natural world. In the shadow of the Uganda Wildlife Education Center and the Royal Botanic Gardens, you'll find yourself amidst a landscape that beckons for self-discovery.

The contemplative ambiance of Entebbe invites you to explore profound questions, inviting grace, wisdom, and adventure into your spirit and intellect. Here, sacred ceremonies unveil new ways of understanding value and wealth, offering deeper layers of meaning in life.

The Uganda Buddhist Center, our retreat's serene home, is a sanctuary thoughtfully crafted for individuals in pursuit of solace, spiritual expansion, and mindfulness. Enveloped by lush landscapes, it provides a refuge for meditation and self-discovery. Here, you'll have the opportunity to deeply engage with the teachings of Buddhism, delve into its profound principles, and discover inner peace in the heart of Uganda.

Discover a deeper connection with the world, embrace an initiative that makes a difference, and let your presence be the catalyst for change. Your transformation begins in the heart of Entebbe.

We will offer a variety of lodging options, based on our final group size.

Guests are invited to stay at locally owned and operated accommodations in Entebbe. Should you wish you share a room with another guest, or stay at the UBC temple, please reach out to us directly, otherwise you will be secured a private room at a hotel.

Our host, Indigenous Commons Guardian and spiritual leader, Ven. Bhante Buddharakkhita was born and raised in Uganda, Africa. He first encountered Buddhism in 1990 while living in India, and he began practicing meditation in 1993.

He is the founder of the Uganda Buddhist Center in Uganda and has been teaching meditation in Africa, Europe, Brazil and the U.S. Besides spending time at the Buddhist Center in Uganda. His book, Planting Dhamma Seeds: The Emergence of Buddhism on African Soil, tells the story of his spiritual work in Africa.

Suzanne Bowles, Chief Strategist at Cattail Strategy

Suzanne is a visionary in the fields of philanthropy, transformation capital, and consciousness co-lab design. Over two decades, she has been a driving force behind numerous funding collaborations and grassroots organizations, dedicated to shaping a world aligned with its inherent potential through innovative funding models and value creation.

In collaboration with Suzanne, both seasoned and budding philanthropists embark on explorations of emerging concepts. These include regenerative fund governance alongside Indigenous Commons, reimagining approaches to transformation financing with FEST, and participating in the transformative Kinship Return journey to adapt and rejuvenate Western perspectives and cultures for our evolving world.

Suzanne is dedicated to a path of conscious generosity and interconnectedness, emphasizing that, "As we mourn the passing of outdated systems, we create room for the new, by deeply listening to each other in fresh, enlightening ways, ultimately unlocking untapped potential."

Please note, some vaccinations are required or highly recommended for safe travel to Uganda and would need to be done in advance. See here.

⎯ Read carefully. This is a legally binding agreement.  A full and complete summary of the above policies is included within the Terms & Conditions Waiver required to travel. ⎯ 

1. TRAVEL INSURANCE

Mandatory Travel Insurance: All travelers participating in Masterfully Planned Events are required to have proof of current travel insurance before the trip begins.

Coverage Requirements: The travel insurance must cover specific aspects, including personal injury, medical treatment, repatriation, evacuation expenses (including helicopter rescue and air ambulance internationally). Additionally, it is recommended that the insurance also addresses personal property and trip cancellation coverage.

Importance of Trip Cancellation Insurance: Trip cancellation insurance is emphasized as it may be the only means of receiving reimbursement for non-refundable expenses (e.g., flights) if the trip is canceled, postponed, interrupted, or rescheduled for any reason, whether voluntarily by the traveler or as a result of Masterfully Planned Events's actions.

Understanding Your Policy: Travelers are responsible for understanding the specifics of their travel insurance policy. They should ensure that their policy covers all optional and included activities listed in the trip itinerary and check for exclusion clauses that might limit coverage needed.

Existing Health Insurance: Travelers are advised to check their existing health insurance policy to see if it provides the necessary coverage while traveling outside their home country.

Verification of Policy: It is the traveler's responsibility to verify the details of their insurance policy with their insurance provider to ensure that it meets Masterfully Planned Events's requirements.

Assumption of Costs: Travelers are responsible for assuming all costs of medical care and transportation provided during the trip, including any minors traveling with them.

Timing for Insurance Purchase:** Many travel insurance companies require the policy to be purchased within 14 days of the initial trip deposit or payment to any service provider to cover pre-existing conditions or provide "cancel for any reason" coverage.

2. PAYMENTS & DEPOSITS

Deposit: To confirm a booking, travelers are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of $500. This deposit is necessary to secure the reservation.

Final Payment: The final payment of the entire balance is due no later than 90 days before the trip departure date unless otherwise specified in the Special Conditions or on the itinerary page for a specific trip. 

Payment Plans: Payment Plans are available for your convenience.

Booking Process: Bookings can be made through the online booking system.

Booking Confirmation: A booking is considered confirmed only when the service provider confirms it in writing. Until that confirmation is received, there is no contract between the traveler and the service provider.  

Last-Minute Bookings: For bookings made 60 days or less before the trip departure date, the entire trip cost must be paid at the time of booking, and it is non-refundable.

3. CANCELLATION INFORMATION

The cancellation policy is applicable to all MASTERFULLY PLANNED EVENTS, LLC journeys. The written notice must be received by certified mail or email.

Cancellation fees are based on the total value of the trip and are as follows:

— 61+ days prior to departure: 100% of the initial trip deposit is non-refundable.

— 0 to 60 days prior to departure: 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable.

You may transfer your reservation to another traveler, depending upon availability, by notifying us at least 61 days prior to the journey for a transfer fee of $500 per person, after which time our cancellation policy applies.

MASTERFULLY PLANNED EVENTS, LLC is not responsible for additional expenses such as airline cancellation fees, visa fees, vaccinations, purchases of clothing or equipment, or other expenses that may occur as a result of the cancellation. 

4. TRAVEL & VISA REQUIREMENTS

Clients must provide MASTERFULLY PLANNED EVENTS, LLC with a color copy of their passport and/or other requested legal identification. Please ensure that all passports remain valid for at least six months beyond the return travel date.

You are responsible for acquiring any necessary travel documents and ensuring compliance with entry requirements for each country you will visit or transit through on your chosen itinerary. Entry regulations vary depending on your citizenship. MASTERFULLY PLANNED EVENTS, LLC cannot procure personal travel documents on behalf of customers or assume responsibility for informing customers of the current requirements of individual countries.

You are financially responsible for any costs arising from delays or alterations to your itinerary due to the absence of proper travel documents. For more details, please visit. It's important to http://www.travel.state.gov/ note that MASTERFULLY PLANNED EVENTS, LLC bears no liability or responsibility if a client is denied entry or exit from the travel destination due to insufficient documentation or the absence of required immunizations.

If you're making a payment for both yourself and another traveler, MASTERFULLY PLANNED EVENTS, LLC requires each participant to individually agree to and sign the Terms & Conditions Waiver in order to be eligible for travel.

⎯ A full and complete summary of the above policies is included within the Terms & Conditions Waiver required to travel. ⎯