Uganda Wildlife Authority has officially received the Elena Camp visitor accommodation facility in Rwenzori Mountains National Park, a landmark project funded by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities (MTWA). The handover ceremony took place on December 15, 2024, at Rwenzori Mountains National Park (RMNP) and was presided over by the Commissioner for Museums and Monuments, Ms. Jackline Nyiracyiza Besigye, who represented the Permanent Secretary of MTWA. The facility was received on behalf of UWA by Mr. Stephen Masaba, the Director of Tourism and Business Development, who represented the Executive Director of UWA.

Located 4,500 meters above sea level at a temperature of 2°C or lower, Elena Camp is the last stop before adventurers ascend to Margherita Peak, the highest point in Uganda at 5,109 meters. The facility can accommodate 34 tourists and 36 support staff, including guides and porters, per night. It features a dining room, kitchen, stores, a steady water supply, power, and fully furnished accommodations with beds and mattresses.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Nyiracyiza highlighted the significance of the facility in promoting tourism in Uganda and called for continued collaboration among stakeholders in the sector. She emphasized the importance of such investments in enhancing visitor safety and experience while boosting Uganda’s profile as a premier mountaineering destination.

In addition to the accommodation facility, MTWA also handed over state-of-the-art mountaineering and hiking equipment to UWA. These include static and single dynamic ropes, crampons, ice axes, modern rescue stretchers, oxygen bags, carabiners, ascenders, and other essential safety gear. The equipment aims to enhance the safety of tourists and guides as they navigate the challenging terrain of the Rwenzori Mountains.

The team also inspected the 12.889 kilometres of boardwalks funded by MTWA and constructed in boggy and difficult-to-hike areas. Sections between Nyabitaba and John Matte Camps, as well as Bujuku and other locations, have already been completed, with ongoing efforts to extend the project further. These infrastructure developments are expected to significantly improve the hiking experience by making the trails safer and more accessible.

The Permanent Secretary of MTWA congratulated UWA and its partners for their dedication to advancing Uganda’s tourism sector. The new Elena Camp and accompanying safety measures are set to address the long-standing challenge of inadequate accommodation and safety facilities in the mountains, further positioning the Rwenzori Mountains as a top destination for adventurous travelers.

Earlier this week, a team of 26 officers from MTWA and UWA embarked on a challenging hike up the Rwenzori Mountains to mark the handover of the facility and equipment. Of the team, 12 officers successfully reached Margherita Camp, an extraordinary feat of endurance and determination.