Kosupa Travel

During my travels, I stumbled upon a unique and memorable drink: “Obusera,” an organic, handcrafted energy drink from Uganda. Here’s a detailed review and my personal experience with this intriguing beverage!

What is Obusera?

Obusera, also known as Obushera, is a traditional fermented drink primarily made in southern Uganda. Unlike the energy drinks commonly found in Japan that are meant to stave off sleepiness, Obusera is consumed for its purported health benefits, including boosting immunity against diseases like Ebola and malaria.

Made from millet (or sometimes sorghum) mixed with sorghum yeast and water, Obusera is prepared by simmering these ingredients. The result is a drink often described as porridge-like or cocoa-like, yet with a unique taste unlike anything you’d find in Japan.

Obusera is widely made in Ugandan households. When left to ferment for about three days, it becomes alcoholic and is then referred to as Bushera.

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Drinking Obusera at a Local Market in Southern Kampala

On my way to the port town of Ggaba, located along the coast of Lake Victoria, I encountered Obusera. My journey from Kampala to Ggaba took an unexpected turn when a sudden downpour forced me to seek shelter at a local market in southern Kampala.

With heavy rain pouring down, Emmanuel, my motorcycle taxi driver and guide, suggested we find something warm to eat while waiting for the rain to stop. He struck up a conversation with a shopkeeper across the flooded path, who then brought us a homemade drink.

Enjoying Obusera with Doughnuts

The shopkeeper brought usa homemade Obusera. It was a blessing for my cold, rain-soaked body. The drink had a thick, textured consistency similar to porridge, with a sweet, warm, and soothing taste that reminded me of oshiruko (sweet red bean soup). It paired perfectly with doughnuts, providing a delightful and energizing experience.

The Obusera and doughnuts cost only a few cents. As we stood enjoying the drink and doughnuts, the rain gradually ceased.

Continuing to Ggaba

After the rain stopped, we left the market, which had turned into a river, and resumed our journey to the port town.

Uganda experiences heavy downpours not only during the rainy season but also in the dry season. These rains, although intense, typically last only a few minutes to an hour. For travelers unaccustomed to such weather, it can be frustrating when plans are disrupted. However, embracing the local style of taking things slow and enjoying Obusera during a downpour can be a memorable and rejuvenating experience. Sometimes, waiting out the rain leisurely can be a delightful part of the adventure.