Uganda’s tourism sector is set for a major boost with the unveiling of a state-of-the-art Equator Monument at Kikorongo, near Queen Elizabeth National Park. Officially launched on Saturday, 28th September 2024, this UGX 1.5 billion monument has already begun attracting thousands of tourists, positioning itself as a fast-rising destination for both domestic and international travellers, as approximately 13,500 visitors to the monument have been recorded in a space of three weeks.
Located strategically along the world-famous equator line, the new Kikorongo Equator Monument is a proud symbol of Uganda’s geographical significance as one of the few countries straddling both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. This new development serves not only as a geographical marvel but also as a representation of Uganda’s national pride, natural beauty, and rich heritage.
Speaking at the launch, Nyirachiza Jackeline, the Acting Commissioner for Sites and Monuments, highlighted that this development is part of a larger project initiated in 2018, in partnership with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), to profile and upgrade 20 equator sites across Uganda. She explained that the profiling process has begun with seven key sites, including Kayabwe and Entebbe, and the ministry is in talks with Action Aid to secure land for the next phase of development.
“We have injected UGX 1.5 billion into the construction of the new Kikorongo monument,” Jackeline revealed. “The materials were sourced from Guangzhou, China, and the construction was supervised by a team of architects from the Ministry of Works, with oversight from our newly created ‘Sites and Monuments’ department.”
Lilly Ajarova, CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board, emphasised the importance of the monument in drawing tourists from all over the world. She explained that this is part of our marketing strategy to transform the equator from a mere geographic point into an experiential destination, where travellers can engage in various activities such as golfing or cycling along the equator line.
“Our goal is to create experiences that go beyond taking a photograph at the monument,” Ajarova said. “We want tourists to explore the surrounding attractions and engage with the local people, thus creating more investment opportunities for Ugandans along the equator line.”
The monument itself, a circular structure with a globe engraved to highlight Uganda’s position on the equator, is designed to blend contemporary aesthetics with local heritage. The monument’s unique architecture, combined with the breathtaking scenery of Uganda’s lush landscapes, makes it an unforgettable landmark. Additionally, its symbolic significance as a bridge between hemispheres underscores Uganda’s commitment to promoting peace and unity, especially in regions like Kasese, which have a history of unrest but are now rebranding as peaceful tourist hubs.
The Kikorongo Equator Monument is expected to significantly boost tourism in Kasese and the surrounding areas. Located near major attractions like the Kazinga Channel and the Lake Katwe salt mines, the monument provides a starting point for tourists looking to explore some of Uganda’s most spectacular landscapes, including the Rwenzori Mountains and the wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
With increased tourist activity in the region, local communities are set to benefit from job creation, improved infrastructure, and support for small businesses. The government’s ongoing “Explore Uganda” campaign, which aims to encourage Ugandans to discover the beauty of their own country, has also contributed to a rise in domestic tourism, further driving economic growth in the region.
As Kasese continues to shed its historical associations with conflict, the new monument serves as a ray of hope and revitalisation, transforming the destination into a must-visit destination for travellers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
For those looking for a unique travel experience, standing with one foot in each hemisphere at the Kikorongo Equator Monument offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Combined with the natural wonders of Uganda’s diverse ecosystems, the monument promises to be a major draw for tourists worldwide.
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