Situated at 3,600 meters above sea level, Kagulu rock offers climbers a breathtaking aerial view of the Busoga sub-region, as well as parts of Teso and Bukedi. Namutamba noted that the cool breeze at the summit of Kagulu rock is a key attraction for tourists. However, some visitors were previously deterred by the challenging non-stop upward climb, with many tiring out halfway.
Namutamba revealed that, following a Shs 500 million development fund for Kagulu rock, donated by President Museveni, they were able to construct staircases during the first phase of development, which was completed in the post-Covid-19 period. She added that the second phase included the construction of three resting shelters along the climb, providing climbers with refreshing spaces to pause and rest on their way to the top.
Namutamba also pointed out that the shelters, combined with the flat top area of the rock, similar to South Africa’s renowned Table Mountain, offer climbers ample space for mini-parties, campfires for night adventures, and other recreational activities. Michael Kanaku, the LC-V chairperson of Buyende district, confirmed a significant increase in tourism numbers, from 100 monthly visitors in 2022/2023 to an average of 800 in 2023/2024, thanks to the added amenities.
He noted that both local and international tourists, particularly from Germany, the USA, South Korea, Japan, and South Africa, now spend more time at Kagulu rock due to these improvements. The neighbouring communities have also experienced economic benefits from the increased tourist activity.
Allan Matende, a local resident, mentioned that the rising popularity of night-time campfires, particularly among foreign tourists, has boosted the sale of livestock, chicken, foodstuffs, and beverages during overnight stays.
Another resident, Sarah Abaliwano, shared that tourists are particularly excited by banana stem-woven mats, often choosing to sit on them during their mini-parties in the resting shelters. She added that many tourists also rent locally made huts for accommodation during their adventures in the Kagulu rock area.
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