That’s Provia’s Homestay Now

“Munonga, munonga, munonga!” said Provia Ndyahisahe when we inquired about her interest in hosting people on Lake Bunyonyi’s Habukomi Island. “Much, much, much,” in translation.

After the passing of her fabled husband, Tom Karemire, we weren’t exactly sure what the future would hold. Tom was special in many ways, and one of them was that he viewed family members as his staff or subcontractors when it came to hospitality. It was clearly “Tom’s Homestay” and not “Tom’s Family’s Homestay,” so we didn’t want to force anything onto his widow and kids, allowing them time to decide their own path forward.

Provia’s resounding response put all doubts to rest. At 73, she still has a lot of energy and her smile radiates kindness. Moreover, her youngest son Felix Kobusheshe, 29, is eager to assist. A secondary school teacher, he does shifts on Bwama Island and in Kabale Town, and he will gladly join Provia in the evenings to add his English-language skills to the package.

And even if Felix at times can’t make it for one reason or another, there will be no problem. Our tour guides are always there to chip in, as we treat the homestay as a cultural trip, not just an overnight. They accompany you as you paddle to Habukomi in a dugout canoe, take you on a walking tour of the uniquely shaped island, settle you into our comfortable tents, and then join the campfire supper in front of Provia’s house. They also ensure you wake up on time for your next adventures, after a wholesome breakfast.

Just as importantly, Felix will effortlessly continue the tradition of yummy crayfish masala served at dinner time. Guests have been raving about that dish, and when the family invited us for lunch last Sunday, we could confirm its top quality. When we asked who had prepared the specialty, it turned out to be Felix himself.

In short, when the family decided to put “A Tourism Enthusiastic Person” on Tom’s tombstone, they were committing to continue his legacy.