The Ministry of Tourism of Uganda has launched an initiative to comprehensively transform Tororo Rock, one of Uganda’s most iconic landmarks, into a world-class tourism destination, with a variety of offerings for visitors from around the world.

In a press statement, the ministry says that the development plan aims to unlock the full potential of the rock, which has been underutilised for decades, despite being the defining feature of Tororo district, about 225 km east of the capital Kampala and close to the border with Kenya.

The statement adds that with an initial investment of UGX177 million (USD 50,000), the ministry has developed a comprehensive master plan, which has been officially presented to the Tororo District Local Government.

The initiative has generated enthusiasm among local leaders, who see it as a game-changer for the district’s economy who say that Tororo Rock’s development could elevate its status not only within Uganda but across Africa, saying that it was an obvious resource which had so far been underutilised, drawing parallels with Cape Town’s Table Mountain.

The project envisions transforming Tororo Rock into a premier tourist site with features such as a cable car for easier rock climbing, a camping site to attract adventure enthusiasts as well as hotels to cater to visitors’ accommodation needs.

The statement adds that its strategic location at the border positions Tororo Rock as a top-tier destination in Eastern Uganda, with potential to boost local revenue and create employment opportunities.

The initiative also addresses long-standing challenges, including encroachment on the rock by private developers, says the ministry.