A military building known as Sir Samuel Bakers Fort at Patiko, Fort Baker, or Bakers Fort was used to collect slaves during the slave trade.
At Patiko, Fort Baker, or Bakers Fort, a military structure known as Sir Samuel Bakers Fort, dealt with the collection of slaves during the slave trade.
Early explorers under the direction of Sir Samuel Baker constructed it in 1864 after it was found by him and his wife Florence Baker.
Sir Samuel Baker’s Fort at Patiko is a fort that is situated in the Gulu area in Northern Uganda. It’s about 2 kilometres from the town of Gulu, close to the borders of Sudan and Egypt.
The early explorers came across Ocecu Hill, which turned out to be a convenient location for all of the sorting, and keeping of the slaves. They also used it as a place for keeping their ammunition, as well as a resting point. This decision was based on several factors.
These included the need to sort slaves and, the long distances to the markets reach in Sudan and Egypt where Arab trade merchants settled.
Additionally, was the need to get a resting point for the slaves, as well as the need to acquire a place for the keeping of ammunition.
A Brief History of the Fort at Patiko in Gulu
As earlier mentioned, Bakers Fort served as a convenient trading location. Atop Ocecu Hill, huts were constructed to use as storage spaces for treasures including ivory, food, and ammunition.
One of the treasures that John Speke had mentioned was Bakers Fort, which Sir Samuel Baker and Florence Baker observed or discovered in 1864.
Before the discovery of Lake Albert and Murchison Falls, Patiko existed. Charles Gordon and Emin Pasha, representatives of the British protectorate in Uganda, used the fort after Sir Samuel Baker left.
Baker’s Fort is very significant for reasons of both cultural and historical relevance. Dark splotches on the rocks at Baker’s Fort are thought to be the blood of slaves who were beheaded here because they couldn’t travel to the market due to the great distances involved. Their blood is still clearly visible on the rocks.
Despite the horrific history of the slave trade that this location witnessed, it provides a sense of how history from the 19th century was once lived.
Tourist Attractions Near Fort Patiko
Tochi Resort Beach
Located 20 kilometres from the town of Gulu, Tochi Beach is a low-lying sandy bank of the River Tochi. The beach has a lot of potential to develop into a major tourist destination for excursions, camping, and the building of bandas, despite its many shortcomings.
Amuru Hot springs
These Amuru Hot springs are located in Paga parish, Amoro sub-county, Kilak County. They are thought to be the largest hot springs in Northern Uganda and are about 35 km from Gulu town. They are located on a plot of land that is about 100 square meters.
Although they have been neglected for a while, the location may be used for tourism. There is also adequate room on the ground for camping.
Guru Guru Hills
These are supposed to have served as a haven during the infamous Lamogi uprising and ancient inter-clan battles among the Lou. The Guru Guru Hills is situated about 25 kilometres to the north of Gulu town.
Activities to do at Sir Samuel Bakers Fort at Patiko
Visiting the Atiak Colobus Monkeys
Colobus monkeys can be seen in the Atiak Forest Reserve, which is close to the Albert Nile. The forest is characterized by short Savannah forest canopies, a diversity of bird species, and the colobus monkeys.
These all create a potential attraction that may be boosted by hiking trails and campsites.
Cultural Performances and Antiquities
Indeed the cultural history and dances of the Acholi have not yet been completely developed for tourism. Fortunately, though, local authorities are planning to set up a cultural centre in Gulu town for handicrafts, souvenirs, and cultural regalia.
Both Ugandans and international visitors are welcome to take up the chance to learn about the musical side of the Acholi people. This can be achieved through dances like Araka Raka among others.
Hill Climbing
The best part of hill climbing here is the photo-taking at a new altitude. Tourists can also visit other neighbouring hills like Ocecu hill, where Fort Patiko is located, and Ato, Kilak, and Moro hills, all of which are spread out in the northern parts of Uganda.
They all offer opportunities to demonstrate your fitness by hiking to the top and offer breathtaking views from a birds-ey perspective.
Conclusion
Sir Samuel Baker’s Fort at Patiko is one of those interesting places to visit in northern Uganda. However, you must know that there are neither accommodation nor hospitality facilities like restaurants around Baker’s fort.
For this reason, tourists are advised to bring their requirements such as food, drinks, and camping gear if possible.
