High hopes for hospitality industry as Rwenzori Marathon nears
Kasese district-based hospitality business operators are hopeful that the third edition of the Rwenzori Marathon will turn around their fortunes slated for August 24, 2024
Operators in the hospitality sector in Kasese district are optimistic that the August 24, 2024, third Rwenzori Marathon would bring about a turnaround in their situation.
The Tusker Lite Mount Rwenzori Marathon is an annual event that attracts thousands of people (tourists and marathoners) from across the globe.
Several hospitality investors and business persons in Kasese say their hopes are high because there has been an improvement in the provision of multiple services, including accommodation, entertainment, hotel and restaurant from the previous editions.
Queen Elizabeth National Park-based Lake Munyanyange Caves and Lodge general manager Joseph Matovu told New Vision Online on Tuesday that during the marathon season, local and international clients more than double. According to him they are almost already fully booked.
According to Matovu, the money they earn from the visitors has enabled them to pay off monthly salaries for over 50 workers as well as putting up more improved infrastructure including the campfire site.
Godfrey Kule Kiwedde, the general manager of Shiloh Hotel in the heart of Kasese municipality, said due to high demand for accommodation, they are putting up a five-star hotel that is expected to offer quality service at the international level.
Derick Kamukama, the proprietor of J’s Ice Cream and Drinks spot, which once operated in a confined place recounted that due to the high turn up of clients they were forced to shift to a wider place and that a single day they are able receive over 200 clients.
Queen Elizabeth National Park chief warden Pontious Ezuma said the marathon has boosted both the hospitality and tourist industries. According to him, during the marathon season, they receive an overwhelming number of tourists both local and foreign at least over 1,000 at the end of the week.
“These come to see wildlife such as the tree climbing lions, elephants, leopards, hippos and Uganda cobs,” Ezuma said.
He revealed that they have tightened security surveillance in the national park including stationing army detaches in the middle of the park, using drone surveillance cameras and routine patrols by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) personnel.
