Key Archaeological & Paleontological Discoveries

Key Archaeological & Paleontological Discoveries

The Murchison Falls National Park (also known as Kabalega Falls National Park) is not only famous for its breathtaking waterfalls and wildlife but also for its rich archaeological and paleontological significance. Several discoveries in and around the park have shed light on early human evolution, ancient civilizations, and prehistoric fauna.

1. Early Human Fossils & Stone Tools

  • Pleistocene-Era Tools: Stone tools dating back 1.5 million years have been found in the park, linked to Homo erectus, an early human ancestor.
  • Acheulean Hand Axes: These symmetrical stone tools (500,000–1 million years old) suggest early humans hunted and butchered animals in the region.
  • Later Stone Age Artifacts: Evidence of hunter-gatherer communities (10,000–5,000 years ago) has been found near the Nile’s shores.

2. Fossilized Prehistoric Animals

  • Ancient Hippos & Elephants: Fossils of extinct species, such as giant hippos (Hippopotamus gorgops) and early elephants (Deinotherium), have been uncovered.
  • Saber-Toothed Cats & Giant Buffalo: Remains of mega-fauna suggest the area was once a savanna teeming with large predators and herbivores.

3. Rock Art & Ancient Settlements

  • Rock Paintings: Though rare compared to other African sites, some rock shelters in the park contain faint paintings, possibly from Iron Age pastoralists (2,000–1,000 years ago).
  • Iron Smelting Sites: Evidence of early ironworking (around 500–1,000 AD) suggests the region was inhabited by early Bantu-speaking communities.

4. The “Karuma Falls” Connection

  • Some artifacts found near Karuma Falls (just outside the park) suggest it was a hunting and fishing hub for early humans due to its strategic location on the Nile.

Why Are These Discoveries Important?

  • Human Evolution: The tools and fossils help trace early human migration out of East Africa.
  • Ecological History: The fossil record shows how climate change affected wildlife over millennia.
  • Cultural Heritage: The rock art and iron smelting sites reveal early Ugandan civilizations.

Can Tourists See These Discoveries?

  • Some fossils and tools are displayed at the Uganda Museum (Kampala).
  • Guided tours in Murchison Falls may point out archaeological sites, though many are protected research zones.