Minister Butime Breaks Ground for Shs9.2 Billion Tourism Extension Infrastructure Project At Kikorongo Equator Monument
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The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has officially launched the construction of a Shs9.2 billion tourism extension project at the Kikorongo Equator Monument, reaffirming Government’s commitment to diversifying Uganda’s tourism products, enhancing visitor experiences and increasing the sector’s contribution to national development.
The project, being implemented by Kwed Construction Limited, will transform the iconic Equator stopover into a modern visitor destination that combines tourism, heritage interpretation, culture and education. Construction is expected to be completed within 18 months.
Presiding over the groundbreaking ceremony, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Col. Tom Butime, said the investment demonstrates Government’s continued commitment to developing high-value tourism infrastructure that responds to changing visitor expectations while supporting local economic development.
“Our tourism sector must continue to innovate and diversify if it is to contribute more significantly to Uganda’s economy. This project will add value to one of our country’s most visited tourism stopovers by creating experiences that encourage visitors to stay longer, learn more about Uganda’s heritage and spend more within the local economy,” the Minister said.
He noted that the Ministry is pursuing strategic partnerships to further expand tourism products at the site, including the proposed establishment of a Solar Science Museum and other research-oriented attractions. He also underscored the importance of putting in place appropriate partnership agreements to ensure transparency, accountability and sustainable revenue-sharing arrangements.
A Strategic Tourism Stopover
Located along the Mbarara–Kasese highway, the Kikorongo Equator Monument serves as one of Uganda’s busiest tourism stopovers, welcoming travellers heading to Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Rwenzori Mountains National Park and other tourism destinations in western Uganda.
Over the years, the site has evolved from a simple Equator marker into an important tourism attraction, offering visitors the opportunity to experience one of the few places in the world where the Equator crosses a major transport corridor. Its popularity has steadily increased alongside the growth of Uganda’s tourism industry.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) reports that the monument now attracts well over 100,000 visitors annually, receiving approximately 106,000 visitors last year, following a previous peak of about 140,000 visitors. The sustained growth in visitor numbers has highlighted the need for expanded facilities capable of delivering richer visitor experiences while increasing tourism revenue.
The current investment builds on Government’s broader strategy of developing tourism infrastructure that encourages longer visitor stays, promotes heritage appreciation and creates sustainable livelihood opportunities for neighbouring communities.
Transforming the Visitor Experience
Upon completion, the development will significantly improve the site’s capacity to receive and engage visitors through the construction of:
An Information and Interpretation Centre showcasing the significance of the Equator, the Rwenzori ecosystem and Uganda’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Two thematic museums focusing on Uganda’s Equatorial geography and the cultural heritage of the Rwenzori region.
A modern restaurant and visitor rest area.
A viewing deck overlooking the surrounding landscape and wildlife corridor.
Expanded parking facilities to accommodate tour buses and private vehicles.
Craft shops and a cultural market that will provide opportunities for local artisans and community enterprises to benefit directly from tourism.
Speaking at the launch, the Acting Commissioner in charge of Museums and Monuments, Dr. Jackie Nyiracyiza Besigye, said the project reflects the Ministry’s commitment to developing tourism products that combine heritage conservation, education, research and community participation.
“As Government continues to diversify Uganda’s tourism offerings, investments such as this are critical in creating authentic visitor experiences while preserving and interpreting our heritage for future generations,” she said.
Dr. Nyiracyiza added that the Ministry is exploring collaborations with international partners to expand research, innovation and educational tourism opportunities at the site.
Strengthening Tourism Through Strategic Partnerships
The Uganda Wildlife Authority Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi, commended the Ministry for spearheading the development and reaffirmed UWA’s commitment to supporting investments that complement wildlife conservation while strengthening Uganda’s tourism competitiveness.
He noted that the authority allocated additional land of about 2.7 acres for the project to facilitate the expansion of visitor facilities, describing the investment as a significant step towards creating a more comprehensive tourism experience.
“In addition to wildlife, Uganda’s tourism sector must continue to diversify its products. Facilities such as these add value to our destinations, improve visitor satisfaction and increase tourism revenues,” he said.
Commitment to Quality Delivery
Representing the Permanent Secretary Mrs Doreen Katusiime, the Ministry’s Under Secretary, Mr. Geoffrey Sseremba, called upon the contractor to deliver quality work that meets Government standards.
“There will be no compromise on quality. Government expects infrastructure that is durable, functional and capable of serving visitors for many years while providing value for public investment,” he said.
Advancing Uganda’s Tourism Agenda
The Kikorongo Equator Monument project forms part of the Ministry’s wider programme to modernise tourism infrastructure across the country, diversify tourism products and strengthen Uganda’s position as a competitive destination for domestic, regional and international travellers.
Once completed, the upgraded facility will provide visitors with immersive educational, cultural and recreational experiences while creating new opportunities for local businesses, artisans, guides and hospitality service providers. The development is also expected to increase visitor spending, extend tourist stay along the western tourism circuit and contribute to Government’s objective of positioning tourism as a key driver of socio-economic transformation
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