About SANA

River Guide

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River guide and photographer

My Journey: From Bujagali to the Rapids

I was born in 2001 in a small village called Bujagali, located in Jinja, Uganda, right on the shores of the mighty River Nile. Life wasn’t always easy — I grew up in a large family. My father had two wives, and my mother, Azidha, gave birth to four children. I was the youngest of them all.

As kids, we were always curious about the world around us, especially the river. My father was very strict about not letting us go near the Nile. He feared for our safety — especially because of the fierce Bujagali Falls, where the water could be dangerously unpredictable. But like many children in Uganda, we didn’t always listen — hahaha.

One day, while playing near the river with my brothers, I saw something that would change my life forever — people floating on rafts and paddling in small boats called kayaks. I was amazed. It was my first time seeing such a thing, and while it surprised me, it didn’t scare me. Instead, I felt drawn to it. That moment sparked a deep interest in the river, and by the time I was just 6 or 7 years old, I had taught myself how to swim.

🛶 Falling in Love with Kayaking

At the age of 15, I began kayaking as a sport. I was inspired by two great Ugandan kayakers — Sadat Kawawa and Yusuf Basalirwa. They had already made a name for themselves internationally, and watching them made me believe I could follow in their footsteps.

Driven by passion, I reached out to rafting companies and asked to join their trips, hoping to learn more and improve my skills. Kayaking became more than just a hobby; it became my life. Even now, it remains my greatest love — only football comes close.

Over time, I participated in various kayaking competitions, and one of my biggest dreams came true: I got to compete against my idol, Sadat Kawawa — not just once, but several times.

🦍 Joining Sana Gorilla Rafting

My journey took a new turn when I got the chance to work with Sana Gorilla Rafting. I was told about an opportunity to travel to Western Uganda, to work on a different river — far from the Nile. I didn’t hesitate.

I’ve always loved traveling and exploring new whitewater areas. The chance to experience a different river was more than exciting — it was a dream come true for someone who lives for the thrill of water and adventure.

Safety Kayaker and guide

My name is Juma Kawawa Junior, and I was born and raised in the blessed village of Bujagali, in Jinja, Uganda—a place known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and the mighty River Nile. I am 21 years old, and my story is one of resilience, passion, and a deep love for kayaking, shaped by both challenges and opportunities.

One unforgettable day, my older brother, Sadat Kawawa—a celebrated Ugandan kayaking champion and international river guide—came home with a Red Bull film crew. They were working on a documentary about Sadat’s life on the river. During the shoot, they invited me to take part in the project. I was nervous—it was my very first time sitting in a kayak. My role was to act as the younger version of Sadat, portraying his early days on the river.

That day changed everything for me.

As I watched my brother skillfully navigate the wild rapids with power, confidence, and grace, something inside me lit up. I had never felt so inspired. We returned home and watched the footage together as a family. It was in that moment that I realized: this is what I was meant to do. That day wasn’t just about acting in a film—it was the beginning of a lifelong journey.

While kayaking has become a big part of who I am, I also understand that there’s life beyond the river. During my time off the water, I’ve remained focused on my education. I’m currently in my final year of high school, working hard to complete my studies.

My dream is to become a geologist—to explore the earth, understand its formations, and connect my love for nature and rivers with scientific knowledge. I believe that combining my passion for adventure with education will open even more doors in my future

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