Kitara Foundation for Regional Tourism has invited the esteemed members of UNESCO and UNWTO to come to Western Uganda for recognition of important Natural and Cultural sites for boosting tourism development in the region that will contribute to the economic growth of these rich but hidden communities.

“We are writing to bring to your attention the incredible natural and cultural heritage sites in Western Uganda. These sites, though lesser-known, are of immense cultural, historical, and natural significance, and we believe they deserve recognition and protection.

While we appreciate the recognition of Ruboni Tourism Village in Kasese district, we note that more tourism villages in the region would leverage tourism benefits and distribution of resources across the region.

We humbly request that you consider the following sites for recognition as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and UNWTO Tourism Villages:

1. Karangura Village: Located at the foothills of Rwenzori Mountains, this village is home to stunning waterfalls, forests, and breathtaking sceneries. The indigenous Bakonzo people are committed to tourism development and have developed local infrastructure. https://kitararcc.com/2024/12/01/conquering-karangura-waterfalls-a-rwenzori-adventure/ or https://kitararcc.com/2024/02/12/fascinating-bwamba-pass-trail-of-karangura-community-in-the-rwenzori-mountains/ or https://kitararcc.com/2024/11/26/hiking-friends-to-the-mountains-of-the-moon-an-adventure-of-nature-friendship-and-determination/ or https://kitararcc.com/2024/03/04/the-planned-tourist-on-his-longest-hike-karangura-peak-in-the-rwenzori/

2. Mapatha Village: Situated at the foothills of Rwenzori Mountains, this village is famous for the majestic Kiima Waterfalls, each with a cave besides the waterfall. The native Bakonzo people are welcoming and committed to nature conservation and tourism development. https://kitararcc.com/2024/02/05/the-challenge-to-kiima-waterfalls-in-mapatha-village-in-the-mountains-of-the-moon/

3. Kyondo Community: Home to the breathtaking Kororo Waterfalls on the slopes of Rwenzori Mountains, this community offers a unique cultural and nature adventure experience. The Bakonzo natives have formed cultural entertainment groups to showcase their rich heritage. https://kitararcc.com/2023/09/27/trip-to-the-stunning-natural-beautiful-waterfalls-of-kororo-in-western-uganda/

4. Kisamba Community: Located at the foothills of Rwenzori Mountains, this community is home to the longest waterfalls in the mountain, the Sebwe Waterfalls. The Bakonzo native people are welcoming and committed to tourism development. https://kitararcc.com/2024/02/09/hike-to-the-stunning-natural-sebwe-waterfalls-in-the-rwenzori/

5. Ngite Village: Situated near Ssempaya Hot Springs, this village is famous for the majestic Ngite waterfalls. Visitors can also enjoy a beautiful community walk through large cocoa farms and learn about the cultural story of the male and female Sempaya Hot springs. https://kitararcc.com/2024/07/03/a-cultural-adventure-trip-to-the-magical-hot-springs-and-waterfalls-of-uganda/

6. Rwagimba Village: Home to the Rwagimba Hot springs at the foothills of Rwenzori Mountains, this village offers a unique hiking and relaxation experience. The warm waters of the springs, beautiful sceneries, and hills for hiking make it a must-visit destination. https://kitararcc.com/2023/06/23/the-mystical-challenge-to-rwagimba-rwajimba-hot-springs-in-uganda/

7. Kasenda Village: This village is home to 6 crater lakes, including Lake Nyinambuga, one of the economic symbols of Uganda. The village also hosts Mahoma waterfalls, natural forests, and associated creatures, making it a unique cultural and nature destination. https://kitararcc.com/2024/11/15/discover-the-hidden-gems-of-lake-nyinambuga-and-mahoma-waterfalls/

8. Rwamwanja Village: Home to the iconic Ankole long-horned cows, this village offers a unique cultural experience. The native Bahima people from Ankole are welcoming and committed to cultural tourism. https://kitararcc.com/longo-horned-kitara-cows/ and https://kitararcc.com/2024/03/17/kitara-cultural-tours-cultural-village-and-cultural-festivals/

9. Mabanga Village: This village is home to the Nyakahondogoro Caves, a cultural and religious site. Many people flock to the caves for cultural and religious prayers, while nature lovers hike the hills for breathtaking sceneries and views. https://kitararcc.com/2024/06/01/the-nyakahondogoro-house-of-prayer-of-all-nations-up-mabanga-hill/

10. Karubuguma Village: Located in Kitagwenda district, this village is home to natural Cycad plants that fed dinosaurs over a million years ago. The village also hosts Mpanga Gorge with scenic Mpanga waterfalls and offers breathtaking views of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Mount Rwenzori, and Lake George. https://kitararcc.com/2024/02/06/captivating-adventures-to-the-africas-cycad-villages-of-kyotamusana-and-karubuguma/

11. Rwenjeru Village: Located in Mbarara, this village is home to the iconic Ankole long-horned cows. Visitors can enjoy a full cultural immersion experience, take part in cattle grazing and other farm activities, and explore the surrounding Ankole cultural sites. https://kitararcc.com/2024/11/18/discover-rwenjeru-community-tourism-camp-site-a-haven-of-ankole-culture-and-natural-beauty/

We invite the world to come and explore these hidden gems of Uganda. We believe that recognition by UNESCO and UNWTO will not only promote tourism in these areas but also contribute to the conservation of these natural and cultural heritage sites for future generations.