Davis Owomugisha Writes to President Museveni, Advocating for Kabale to Be Declared Uganda’s Next Tourism City

His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni

President of the Republic of Uganda

Office of the President

P.O. Box 24534

Kampala, Uganda

Dear Mr. President,

Subject: Request for Kabale District to Be Declared a Tourism City

Akampene island at Lake Bunyonyi has great kiga cultural significance 

I hope this letter finds you well. I write to you as a concerned citizen, a creative writer, and an advocate for tourism in the Kigezi region. Kabale, once the heart of the Kigezi region, has long been a central hub for the people of southwestern Uganda, and it has made significant contributions to Uganda’s tourism sector, economy, and cultural landscape. With the recent creation of Rubanda and Rukiga districts, Kabale has become smaller in terms of its geographical size. However, it remains the heartbeat of the region and continues to be a major player in Uganda’s tourism industry.

Given Kabale's historical, cultural, and economic importance, I wish to propose that Kabale be officially recognized and declared a Tourism City. This proposal is not just about enhancing the town’s status but about strategically positioning Kabale to unlock its full potential as an economic and cultural powerhouse.

Kabale has long been a gateway to the stunning attractions of the Kigezi region. The beautiful Lake Bunyonyi, a renowned destination for both international and local tourists, is just one of the many natural wonders that this district offers. The surrounding areas also boast significant cultural heritage, from the indigenous Bakiga community to the Batwa people. These sites are integral to Uganda's tourism industry, and Kabale, as the central district, plays a pivotal role in facilitating access to these attractions.

However, much of the tourism potential lies beyond Kabale town itself. For this reason, I propose that the city status be extended to the entire Kabale district, rather than limiting it to the town centre and its immediate borders. This move would recognize the tourism contributions of the entire district, from the lakeshores to the highlands, and help develop a more inclusive and sustainable tourism strategy.

Recognizing Kabale as a Tourism City would bring about a host of economic and social benefits for its residents and Uganda at large. Kabale’s economy, while already diverse, would be further bolstered by increased tourism, infrastructure investment, and business opportunities. The city status would make Kabale a more attractive destination for both local and international investors, creating opportunities for job creation, improving living standards, and stimulating economic growth.

Moreover, city status would encourage the development of modern infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and public services, which would improve the quality of life for the residents and create a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. It would also provide a platform for preserving Kabale’s unique cultural heritage and showcasing it to the world.

I understand that there are concerns regarding the proposed boundaries for Kabale’s city status, particularly regarding religious affiliations and the demarcations that have been made. These concerns, while valid, should not overshadow the broader goal of promoting the welfare of all citizens within Kabale district. I urge that a transparent and consultative process be undertaken to address these concerns and ensure that the boundaries reflect the district’s shared vision for progress and unity.

The goal should be to create a city that reflects Kabale’s rich history, diverse cultures, and bright future, one that benefits all its residents, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.

Your Excellency, I believe that declaring Kabale a Tourism City is a visionary move that will bring immense benefits to the district and Uganda as a whole. It would help position Kabale as a model of sustainable tourism, economic development, and cultural preservation. I respectfully request your consideration of this proposal and urge that you take the necessary steps to make Kabale a city in recognition of its tourism potential, its historical importance, and its future promise.

I would be honored to discuss this proposal further and work alongside your esteemed office to ensure that Kabale reaches its full potential as a vibrant and thriving Tourism City.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Yours sincerely,

Davis Owomugisha

Creative Writer and Kigezi Tourism Ambassador

0783940260/0759281331