Kasese District Tourism Development Plan. Uganda

Transcription

1 Uganda

2 Kasese District Tourism Development Plan Uganda PREPARED FOR Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Industry WITH SUPPORT FROM World Bank PAMSU Project PREPARED BY EDSA Robert Wild International Gorilla Conservation Program March 10, 2006 Cover photo: Mountains of the moon: Rwenzoris- Photo by Hitesh Mehta

3 FORWARD From the snows of Rwenzori, to the shimmering heat of our lakes, Kasese District encompasses a rich diversity of landscape, wildlife and people. These present to the traveler an opportunity to experience some of the Uganda s most exciting attractions. The fabled Mountains of the Moon, the largest mountain ranges in Africa remain one of the world s lesser-known ranges. Aided by improved communications, security, and facilities we plan to remedy that. Not only are there the mountain peaks, the fantastic giant plants, the bamboo, the bogs and the forest, there is the mountain people and their culture. Intimately tied up with the mountains, we will be making ongoing efforts to showcase this culture and its living history. Queen Elizabeth National Park has long been Uganda s premier wildlife destination, Kazinga Channel boat rides, the savannah animals, the unique habituated hippos in the lakes, and the bizarre and rare boat billed stork, are more than enough to keep visitors entranced. To this we can add lake fishing and salt winning as fascinating ways of local life and economy. There is no doubt that the challenges are significant. The economic realities in the district will require significant efforts to overcome, as will land shortages and degradation, sound environmental management and reducing conflict between wildlife and people. I was impressed, however, with the considerable support and energy within the district from government staff, community members and local entrepreneurs in developing this plan. I am sure similar energy and commitment will be shown to make the proposals in the plan a reality. To achieve our aims collaboration will be essential, both within and outside the District. All sectors of the community have their part to play as well as our neighbouring Districts who also host visitors on the Western Circuit, and the tour companies both local and from elsewhere. The District Administration applauds all who took part in the plan s production and will play a leading role in ensuring it is implemented. Bwambale Yokasi Bihande LC5, Kasese District 2

4 In performing our dances, we honour our gods, but also there is an element of conserving the forest. If these mountain ecosystems are played about with even our gods will run away from us and we will lose their benefits. We believe that our God Kitasamba resides in the forest. That is why we protect these areas so that we can keep our cultural bonds to the forest. So it is important that the forest is not tampered with, and the waterfalls are not tampered with. Even before the Rwenzori Mountain National Park was created we were protecting the forest. John Kijumba, Senior Bakonzo Elder and Chair Bakonzo Cultural Association. 3

5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Planning Team would like to thank all the people who were involved in the development of this Sustainable Tourism Development Plan for Kasese District. We especially thank the senior ministry personnel who joined us in the field and the District Council LC5 and his planning Team who showed great commitment and vigour, as well as the community members who endured long discussions with complete openness and objectiveness. The Team would also like to thank the staff of non-governmental conservation organisations, tour and hotel operators who supplied information and/or participated in the tourism workshop and design charettes, without whose support and fervour, this plan would not have been complete. The Team deeply appreciates the support and guidance of the guides, rangers and drivers during the many excursions in the field. It is with deep respect that we acknowledge their information that was provided under sometimes difficult situations. The following organizations were also instrumental in the production of this Tourism Development Plan: Ministry of Trade, Tourism and Industry World Bank African Wildlife Foundation 4

6 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY METHODOLOGY & PROCESS EXISTING CONDITIONS Location History And Culture Demographics And Livelihoods Land Use Infrastructure Policy Context Planning Context Tourism Market Demands And Accommodation Facilities TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN Physical Analysis Opportunities And Constraints Analysis Overall Tourism Development Plan ZONING PLAN Zoning TOURISM CIRCUIT PLAN FIRST PHASE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS Bwenda Lodge Ecotour Operator Community Issues PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT ACTIONS RECOMMENDATIONS REFERENCES...95 Appendices 5

7 Tables Table 1: National Tourism Policy Strategies...25 Table 2: Visitor statistics for RMNP and QENP ( )...30 Table 3: Tourism facilities at protected areas in Kasese District...32 Table 4: Reported existing attractions in Kasese district...34 Table 5: Existing reported tourism products Kasese District...36 Table 6: Potential tourism accommodation and products...42 Table 7: Tourism constraints and solutions - Kasese...42 Table 8: Options for disadvantaged groups to become involved in tourism...73 Table 9: Potential Ecotour Community Partners...77 Table 10: Options for community involvement in tourism...91 Boxes Box 1: Health Statistics (KDC, 2003)...16 Box 2: Reported existing tourism activities in Kasese District...33 Box 3: Culture, history and legend...52 Box 4: Building and Development Trends and Aspirations...70 Box 5: Katwe is Torched!...74 Box 6: Sources of best practice information on tourism development...90 Box 7: Steps for the establishment of community based tourism List of Acronyms ARO BCE CE CPI CVK DRC EDSA EIA IGCP KFNP African Regional Office Before Common Era (BC) Common Era (AD) Community Protected Area Institute Crater Valley Beach Resort Democratic Republic of Congo Edward D Stone Jr. and Associates Environmental Impact Assessment International Gorilla Conservation Programme Kibale Forest National Park LC 1-5 Local Councils 1-5 6

8 MoLG MTTI NGO PA PAMSU PEAP QENP RMNP TPC TSWR UCOTA UNESCO UWA UWEC WCU WTO WWF Ministry of Local Government Ministry of Tourism Trade and Industry Non Government Organisation Protected Area Protected Area Management and Sustainable Use Poverty Eradication Action Plan Queen Elizabeth National Park Rwenzori Mountains National Park Technical Planning Committee Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve Uganda Community Tourism Association United Nations Education and Science Organisation Uganda Wildlife Authority Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (Entebbe Zoo) Wildlife Clubs of Uganda World Tourism Organisation World Wide Fund for Nature 7

9 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY One of the key recommendations in the new national Tourism Policy for Uganda is the decentralization of tourism function, which calls for a bottom-up planning approach in tourism development. The Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Industry (MTTI) through the PAMSU 1 Project is supporting priority districts in preparing District Tourism Development Plans to ensure that tourism development is integrated into the overall district development plans The International Gorilla Conservation Programme (IGCP) (a coalition of the African Wildlife Foundation, Fauna and Flora International and WWF) is supporting the development of these District Tourism Development Plans. The IGCP has been involved in the development of gorilla tourism since its inception and contributed to both national and regional tourism processes. In January 2004, EDSA was commissioned by IGCP to develop District Tourism Development Plans for the Kisoro and Kanungu Districts in South West Uganda. These two districts were selected as pilot sites for the development of tourism plans, due to the potential in Kisoro and Kanungu Districts to develop flagship sustainable destinations that would benefit the stakeholders without compromising the environment. In June of 2005, EDSA and IGCP were again commissioned to prepare District Tourism Development Plans for Kasese and Kabarole Districts in Western Uganda. Sustainable tourism can heighten local awareness of the importance of conservation, provide new incentives for governments and the local communities to preserve protected areas and generate revenue for local and regional economies. This report outlines Tourism Development for Kasese District. In line with the requirement of the national Tourism Policy for Uganda, this plan aims to provide the framework for 1 The development objective of the Protected Area Management for Sustainable Use Project (PAMSU) is the sustainable and cost-effective management of Uganda s wildlife and cultural resources. Through PAMSU, sustainability is promoted through a combination of delivering funds to improve Uganda s ability to attract tourists to its wildlife and cultural heritage while encouraging cost-effective management strategies to reduce overall operating costs of the institutions managing these resources. PAMSU is designed to encourage continued development of tourism opportunities, policy and infrastructure as a necessary condition for growth with the return of tourism (ARO, 2002). 8

10 tourism development that allows for controlled development, which does not generate any serious environmental or socio-cultural problems and which will be used as a means for environmental and cultural conservation. This plan also ensures that tourism development is tailored to the specific characteristics and needs of each area of the District with maximum participation of community residents in the development process and tourism benefiting, to the greatest extent possible, local communities. The plan aims to identify tourism product development opportunities and develop a framework within which the development can be undertaken. The plan uses both physical and strategic planning approaches. Physical Planning is primarily used to address the spatial aspects of planning, while the strategic approach focuses on a hierarchy of objectives at different levels. Key to the physical planning is the Master Plan, which is a map-based plan showing attractions, parks, transport routes zoning and other elements critical to tourism, and it develops in detail two first phase projects which will act as models for other similar projects. The strategic component of the plan is developed in the form of strategic directions, objectives, and actions. These then give direction policy, legislation, as well as annual work planning and budgeting process of the District Council, private sector and communities. The plan provides some technical inputs in the way of information collected in the district, guidelines on appropriate action and sources of further information. aims to identify tourism product development opportunities and develop a framework within which the development would be undertaken. Bwenda Lodge Rehabilitation and an Ecotour Operator were identified by participants as two First Phase projects. These have been detailed in this plan and program elements identified. The consultancy team further produced a Tourism-Circuits Plan and itineraries for potential safaris. The whole concept of the itineraries was to provide the tourists a varied experience and to be able to spread the visitors over the whole province. Strategic directions identified include the maintenance of security, capacity building for tourism at the district level, the promotion and showcasing of local culture and history. It also recommends the development of a craft market in Kasese Town, the expansion of a new Rwenzori Mountain Circuit in south Rwenzori Mountains National Park, the resolution of community conflicts at Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the development of a Kasese Tourism Development Association and thereby increased marketing of the district. The restarting of passenger train services Kampala-to Kasese should be advocated as a long-term goal of significant benefit to the district. 9

11 2 METHODOLOGY & PROCESS METHODOLOGY Five forms of methodology were used to prepare this document: 1. Research into the history, culture, flora and fauna of the Kasese District. Documentation that was reviewed included policies and plans produced by government, consultants, and NGOs. A full list of references cited can be found in Section Interviews with a representative section of the various stakeholders including community members, private sector tour operators and lodge owners. 3. Stakeholder meetings and open discussion with a wide cross-section of residents. The project began with a kick-off meeting with MTTI, consultants and representatives of the Association of Tour Operators. 4. On-site visits to numerous existing facilities (hotels, restaurants, houses, government offices, natural areas etc). Over the course of four days, District Planners, the planning team and Ministry of Tourism leadership visited a range of existing and potential tourism attractions across Kasese. These included amongst others Rwenzori Mountain National Park and Nyakalengija, Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Mweya sector, Kasese Town, Lake George, Rwagimba Hotsprings, and Kihoko Cave. 5. Participatory Planning Workshop and Design Charettes that were held just outside Kasese Town and attended by a wide cross-section of the residents of Kasese District. The District Council had compiled lists of relevant stakeholders from local government, the private sector, NGOs, marginalized groups, and religious organisations who were then invited to the participatory planning workshop and design charettes 2. The composition of the 52 strong participant samples included the range of responsible parties identified within the tourism policy. A full list of workshop participants can be found in Appendix 2. PROCESS The process of developing this Tourism Development Plan for Kasese included the following stages: 1. Compilation and analysis of background documentation 2. Stakeholder meeting in Kampala 2 Participatory Planning Workshop and Design Charettes The Planning and Design process was initiated via the use of a planning workshop and design charettes. The workshop and charettes accelerated the planning process by creating an interactive environment with all major stakeholders working together without the normal interruptions that delay communications. It also provided an opportunity to achieve consensus on the most worthy approach to the tourism development plan. This planning process assists in reviewing program issues, environmental constraints and provides insight into the physical and market potential of the various products. The participatory workshop oriented design process is a most effective and efficient means of providing stakeholders with a specific work product quickly and comprehensively. This inclusive workshop format can provide an early feasibility review of the overall districts with minimal investment of both time and money. 10

12 3. Field visits in Kasese District with the district planners and local residents 4. Participatory planning workshop and design charette at the Margherita Hotel, near Kilembe. 5. Presentation to stakeholders in Kampala 6. Preparation of the draft plan 7. Review of Draft Plan by stakeholders 8. Revisions to Draft Plan 9. Submission of Final Plan to MTTI. The purpose of undertaking a participatory planning approach to tourism development in the District was to ensure that locally relevant issues were incorporated, and that people living within the district developed ownership over the plan. 11

13 3 EXISTING CONDITIONS 3.1 LOCATION Kasese district is located along the Equator in the western region of Uganda. It borders the Districts of Kabarole and Bundibugyo in the north and Kamwenge District in the east, Bushenyi District in the south and the Democratic Republic of Congo in the west. The district is dominated by the Rwenzori Mountains, the largest mountain massif in Africa - the fabled Mountains of the Moon, forming the international boundary to the north-west. The deeply incised foothills of the mountains fall way into savannah lands, with wetlands and lakes. The district has an approximate total area of 31,205 km 2, with the central swath intensively settled and farmed and the mountain peaks and lowland savannah and lakes contained within protected areas. UGANDA Kasese District Lake Victoria 3.2 HISTORY AND CULTURE History The Great Lakes forests have long been occupied by people (c.32,000-47,000 years ago) (Cunningham, 1996). The snow-capped Rwenzoris, were known to Egyptian and Greek scholars as early as the 7th Century BCE, and the name Mountains of the Moon is recorded as early as 5th Century BCE. Forest clearance for agriculture began about 2,200 years ago (Taylor, 1990) probably by Bantu speaking peoples who arrived at the same time. In addition to agriculture these people brought iron smelting, which still survives today as the blacksmith tradition. In more recent centuries migrations of pastoralists from the north are thought to have formed ruling clans amongst a number of the ethnic groups in the Great Lakes Region, although this view is challenged by some authorities (Chrétian 2003). 12

14 From the late fifteen Century the Bunyoro Kingdom was the dominant force in the Region. In 1830, a Bunyoro Prince Olimi Kaboyo, seceded to form the Tooro Kingdom. Conflict between the two kingdoms especially under the powerful King Cwa II Kabalega ( ), led to the near extinction of the Tooro lineage. The dramatic rescue in 1888 by the Bakonzo Chief Ruhandika from King Kabalega of the infant Tooro Prince Kasagama led to the Toroo Kingdom s continuity (Stacey, 2003). The first encounter of the region with Europeans was in 1889, during H.M Stanley s limp southward, after a very arduous trip up the River Congo. The objective of this expedition, assisted by the famous Zanzibari slave trader Tippu Tip, was the rescue of Emin Pasha, who governed Equitoria on behalf of the Khedive of Egypt. During this trip W.G. Stairs and a group of 40 Zanzibaris (but not seeking the assistance of the local people) climbed to a height of 10,677 ft on the Mountains. The British established colonial rule over the area following the defeat of King Kabalega in The Tooro Kingdom, who had allied themselves with the British, became a client Kingdom administered the Tooro District, which included what is now Kasese District. The Bakonzo and Baamba of the Rwenzori were unhappy under Tooro rule and in 1919 rebelled under Bakonzo Chief Tibamwenda. The leaders of the rebellion were captured and hanged in In 1962, shortly after independence ended about 70 years 13

15 of British rule, a second rebellion erupted and the rebels declared themselves to have seceded from Uganda. In June 1963, the Bakonzo- Baamba leaders installed Isaya Mukirane as Omusinga King of Rwenzururu and in 1966 his son Charles Kisembo was crowned. President Milton Obote, had however, that same year abolished the Ugandan kingdoms. In 1971 the government took steps towards answering local demands, and created Kasese District. In 1982 Charles Kisembo, left the mountains and incorporated his fighters into the Ugandan Army. There was further conflict in the Mountains first by the National Army for the Liberation of Uganda (NALU), which faded by 1993, and in 1996 war erupted with the invasion of the Alliance for Democratic Freedom (ADF). This group terrorised local people who were forced into refugee camps and the mountains were closed. In a bid to help ADF end the rebel activity, Kisembo temporarily returned to Kasese District in A recent study by Makerere University, showed 86% of the people of the District in favour of a collective Rwenzori Kingdom as a cultural entity Culture Culturally Kasese represents the three main waves of people, the original forest hunter gather communities represented by the Batwa (Bambuti), the Bantu iron smelting agriculturalists arriving generally over 2000 years ago and northern pastoralists arriving possibly within the last 500 years, although this pattern of movements are debated (Chrétian 2003). Although there are now no Batwa communities in Kasese District itself, remaining Bundibugyo groups are considered part of the Banyarwenzori, having close relationships and influencing the culture of both the Bakonzo (Stacey, 2003) and more particularly the Baamba. In this district, Bantu agriculturalists predominate, but there are the Basongora pastoralists now scattered through the district considered part of the broader Tooro group (Rwagweri, 2003). Distinctions are, however, somewhat blurred and due to the history of movement and assimilation, many groups have close historical relationships. A Bakonzo traditional healer performing in a smoke-filled hut. 14

16 For the Bakonzo, cultural and spiritual life is very much tied up with the mountains and the different deities located there, many of whom originally were inherited from the Baamba (Stacey, 2003). All aspects of life are infused with a cultural and often spiritual dimension, thus music, dance, celebrations, life stages are part of this cultural expression. Spirit-mediums, and traditional healers are part of the culture and are still widespread and influential. The tradition culture has been overlain and to a certain extent melded with Christianity (predominantly Church of Uganda) and Islam. A number of animals have particular cultural significance, including the Black and White Colobus, lion and leopard, while clan names reflect parts of the natural world. Bark cloth is of special significance as it is to several groups in the region. Instruments such as the endarra (xylophone) and drum are of also important and many of these items make up the royal regalia. 3.3 DEMOGRAPHICS AND LIVELIHOODS Demographics The district has an approximate total population of 530,000 people. Kasese is a multi-ethnic district with many people of different ethnic backgrounds. The main languages and ethnic groups that dominate the area are the Lhukonzo and Lutooro (alt. Rutoro) of the Bakonzo and Batooro people respectively. But there are also other groups in the district who include the Banyankole, Basongora and Bakiga. There is also common usage of English, Swahili and Luganda Livelihoods Like most districts in Uganda, Kasese district is predominantly agricultural, relying on farming for employment and income. The people keep livestock including cattle, goats, sheep and pigs. Agricultural production is high owing to the rich soils and reliable rainfall, especially in the mountain foothills, but lack of proper information about markets deny farmers the opportunity to sell their produce profitably. Banana growing is popular in Kasese District 15

17 There are a number of industries in the district, which have greatly contributed to the availability of employment to the population. There are two operational mines extracting sulphur, copper and cobalt at Kilembe, and the nationally important cement factory at Hima, with a number of quarry operations. Although Lake Katwe Salt Project has taken long without bearing commercial fruit, it has significantly contributed to the welfare of the local people involved in subsistence salt winning Health Health care is typical for Uganda, but below national average for some key indicators. Malaria prevalence rate is high and the HIV prevalence rate is more than double the national average. Numbers of health staff per head of population is low, and attitudes to family planning remain very traditional. For more details see Box People and Parks There are three protected areas in Kasese District: that are managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority Queen Elizabeth (QENP), Rwenzori Mountains National Park (RMNP) and Kibale Forest National Park (KFNP). Queen Elizabeth National Park is approximately 1978 km² and is part of the wider Queen Elizabeth Protected Area (QEPA), which also includes two wildlife reserves Kyambura (157km²), and Kigezi (330km²). The convergence of West African rainforest and East African grassland biomes in QEPA has resulted in the protected area representing a significant reservoir of biodiversity. This includes 500 bird species, several primates and a variety of large game species. In addition to the diverse landscapes, the protected area borders Lakes George and Edward, contains the Kazinga channel, a range of crater lakes and a wetland which has been designated a Ramsar site of international importance. In addition to this the park was designated a Biosphere reserve by UNESCO in (Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kyambura Wildlife Reserve, Kigezi Wildlife Reserve General Management Plan, Uganda Wildlife Authority, September 2000). Box 1: Health Statistics (KDC, 2003) Health Facilities: 3 Hospitals, 3 health Centre IV s, 22 Health Centre III s, (9 are fully functional), 42 Health Centre II s. 61% of Primary Health Care (PHC) approved posts are filled. The doctor to population ratio is 1:31,300. Health Indicators: Malaria prevalence, 45.99%, HIV seroprevalence (VCT sites) is 15.2 per cent against national figure of 6.2% Infant mortality rate 88 per Maternal mortality rate is 506 per 100,000. Women using at least one modern family planning method, 11.3%. Teenage pregnancy rate is at 75 %, Total fertility rate 7.4% Children spaced less than 2 years apart, 25 % Usable latrine coverage is 53 per cent against national figure of 61 per cent Extract from Kasese District Statistics. Rwenzori Mountain National Park is approximately 995 km² and is located across three districts Kasese, Kabarole and Bundibugyo. In 1994 RMNP was designated a World Heritage Site, indicating the international environmental importance placed on this national park. The Rwenzori mountain ecosystem is one of the largest and most significant water catchment ecosystems in Uganda and constitutes a major source of the White Nile through the Semiliki River which flows into Lake Albert (Rwenzori Mountain National Park Management Plan ). 16

18 An alpine lake in Rwenzori Mountain National Park Kibale Forest National Park (KFNP) was gazetted in 1993 and covers an area of approximately 795 km². KFNP has a variety of conservation values. It is the third largest forested national park in Uganda and supports nine endangered mammal species, including chimpanzees and red Colobus, considered to be globally threatened or nearly so (Kibale Forest National Park, General Management Plan ). It should be noted that only a small portion of the southern part of Kibale Forest national Park falls within Kasese District and that this portion is currently not accessible to tourism. The main cause of conflicts between the local communities and QENP stem from crop raiding and predators (ie lion) eating livestock. In addition to this hippos and elephants trample and destroy fields of crops. In response to this, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has initiated trench digging and scaring/chasing away of animals. An innovative concept that has been introduced in Uganda to ease the people VS parks tension is that of Community protected-area institutions (CPI). Community protected area institutions aim to involve communities in park decision making. The institutions support and provide advice during negotiations for benefit sharing and resource use, to screen community proposals for funding under the revenue sharing programme, and to address community-protected area problems (e.g. including vermin and illegal activities in protected areas) (Mapesa and Makombo, 2002). A revenue sharing arrangement distributes 20% of gate fees collected by UWA to the sub-county local government, which then uses it within its budget. Through the CPIs, local people write project proposals that are 17

19 approved and endorsed through the local government. A preference is given to environmentally sensitive, self-sustaining initiatives that benefit the parish as a whole. (Mapesa and Makombo, 2002). The Wildlife statute stipulates that collaborative management is a recommended approach to protected area and wildlife management. This can be with local communities, the private sector, NGO s, local governments and other government agencies. UWA has developed a Community Conservation Policy that supports their collaborative work with local communities and has developed several programs and a range of strategies to achieve them. The programs developed are as follows: Institutional framework for community conservation Revenue sharing Collaborative management Problem animal management Wildlife user rights Trade in wildlife and wildlife products Conservation education and awareness programmes (Uganda Wildlife Authority, Community Conservation Policy, June 2004). Hippos in QENP have been known to trample crops of local villagers. 18

20 3.4 LAND USE Agriculture is the main land use in Kasese and a major economic activity. For the most part the land is highly fragmented due to traditional practices of inheritance and high population density. Land is held in customary private ownership although there are a few relatively well off farmers with leasehold titles. Some large government agricultural lands exist. Grazing lands are communally owned and land fragmentation is a common feature. The concept of land use planning is still new and is only practiced to a limited extend in the townships, where specific areas are assigned for industries, commercial building, residential, road networks and institutional sites. As mentioned, parts of the district are found within the Queen Elizabeth, Rwenzori Mountain, and Kibale Forest National Parks. Agricultural Land in Kasese District is highly fragmented While not as extreme as some parts of Uganda land shortage, coupled with intensive use for subsistence agriculture, has led to soil degradation, poor yields and ultimately poverty. All this leads to high dependence on some park resources (UWA, 2000). Some small-scale artisan fishing takes place within Lakes George and Edward. 3.5 INFRASTRUCTURE Roads Kasese District is linked by recently improved tarmac roads from Kampala via Fort Portal and to Mbarara via Bushenyi District. This latter road crosses the Kazinga Channel at Katunguru. There are also tarmac roads from the Kasese-Katunguru road to the international boundary with the Democratic Republic of Congo east of Bwera, and also to Kilembe mines from Kasese Town. Overall the district has a road network of over 1200 km, of which 20 percent (228 km) are maintained by Ministry of Works, Housing and Communication; and are generally in good condition. 37% (445 km) are feeder roads maintained by the District while the remaining 37% include community roads solely managed by self-help. A trans-rwenzori Road is being proposed to connect Kitholhu sub-county to Bundibugyo. 19

21 A typical feeder road in northern Kasese District Air, Rail and Boat Transport There are three airstrips in the District although, with the exception of Mweya, these are not functional. Currently there is no air connection to Kampala. The Makwana Tea Estate is in the process of adding an airstrip. The rail connection from Kampala to Kasese has been closed for many years. There is some local boat transport on the lakes, with the Tourist boats at Kazinga channel being the key tourism related boat transport Energy and Power Most people in Kasese depend upon trees for their fuel wood needs, such as cooking, heating, lighting and baking bricks (KDLG, 2002). The district is 20

22 connected to the national grid of electricity. In addition the district has four hydro-electric power schemes and one in the pipeline. Majority of households use fuel wood for cooking food. Charcoal and fossil fuels are predominantly used in urban centres. Fuelwood gathering and charcoal burning are the leading causes of rapid loss of vegetation (Kasese District Environmental Action Plan , 2003) Water and Solid Waste Water coverage is at 43.6 per cent with, 177 boreholes, 1833 protected springs, 2116 Gravity flow tap stands, a pumped water system in Katwe- Kabatooro and a gravity flow water scheme and sewerage system in Kasese Town Council. Solid waste disposal is a major problem especially in urban areas. Haphazard waste disposal is widespread since there is no incineration, landfill nor recycling services Communication The advent of mobile telecommunications coupled with the improved road to Kampala has dramatically improved communications in the district. The mobile networks include MTN, Celltell and Mango, but due to the mountainous terrain, coverage is sometimes patchy. Internet cafés can be found in Kasese and Hima Towns. The District has a Sub post office located in Kasese which handles the delivery of mail and the sale of stamps. The District can access the FM stations Radio West and Radio Uganda, as well as two local FM radio stations (Messiah and Grace). Some places can pick Radio Capital and Great Africa. Short wave radio communications are available in some health units Housing There are four types of houses in Kasese district and this has a direct relation to demographic changes especially population increase. These are (DoE, 2001): 21

23 traditional non-upgradable, constructed with mud, wattle and grass thatch (sorghum stalks, papyrus ); upgradable traditional houses commonly made of mud mixed with cement or sun dried bricks with poles and iron sheets. These are common in trading centres and in the outskirts/suburbs of Kasese Town; semi permanent houses made of sun-dried bricks/stones, walls with rough cast and iron sheet roof with ordinary foundation; and permanent houses made of brick walls, stones, cemented floor, iron sheet or tiled roofs. This is common in trading centres, Kasese Town Council and few well-to-do families in rural areas. A traditional non-upgradable house Education Education in the district faces many challenges and the general literacy rate is 42%. The district has over 46 secondary schools (both government and private), 282 primary schools with 183,968 pupils (94,723 girls and 89,245 boys). The classroom to pupil ratio is 1:105 against target of 1:55. There are 15, three-sitter schools (three sessions per day) against 183,968 pupils (thus a desk ratio of 1:8; against target of 1:3. The latrine coverage in Primary schools is at 1,436 stances for the 183,968 pupils, giving a ratio of 1:128 against target of 1:40. Water coverage in primary schools is 45 per cent. This situation exposes most of the pupils to water related diseases. 22

24 The gender ratio in Primary Schools is one to one 3.6 POLICY CONTEXT Poverty Eradication Action Plan Government's strategy for economic transformation is spelled out in the Poverty Eradication Action Plan (PEAP) in Three conditions are envisaged as pre-requisite for economic growth to eradicate poverty (ARO, 2002): structural transformation (agricultural modernization, industrialization, institutional reforms and capacity development); participation by the poor in economic growth by expanding smallholder agriculture, employment, the services sectors and rural non-farm enterprises; and sustainable economic growth with judicious management of land, forests, wetlands, rangelands, rivers, lakes and the environment. This is aligned with the PEAP, and in particular addresses participation by the poor in tourism planning, development and operation. The sustainable development of the tourism industry is promoted, with responsible use of natural resources and biodiversity conservation. 23

25 3.6.2 Tourism policy A core objective of the Tourism Policy for Uganda is to stimulate the industry in Uganda, and ultimately to increase the present level of tourist arrivals from about 200,000 to about 500,000 over the next decade. Although Uganda was the primary tourism destination in East Africa during the 1960s, political and social turmoil during the 1970s and 80s led to the destruction of tourism infrastructure, and widespread hunting of wildlife: virtually to extinction in many protected areas. The policy aims to ensure that tourism is used as a vehicle for poverty reduction, within the resource base and market limitations. The policy denotes that tourism development should provide a mechanism for conservation, by generating revenue to develop national parks and protected areas, but that it should also be socially and culturally acceptable (MTTI, 2003). A number of key institutional, economic, environmental and cultural objectives are highlighted within the policy. Those that are most directly relevant to this have been paraphrased below (MTTI, 2003). Economic objectives: Derive greater revenues from an increasing number of pleasure tourist arrivals and promote longer lengths of stay and higher daily expenditure. Distribute revenue earnings widely, with the large-scale participation of communities and districts in tourism. Environmental objectives: Channel tourism revenue towards the conservation of natural resources, and use protected area entry fees to generate interest in environmental protection and generate revenue for local government and communities. Cultural objectives: Emphasize tourism development based on Uganda's rich culture and history, and on the diverse traditions and hospitality of its people (e.g. museums, performance art, monuments) to encourage a Ugandan identity and cultural pride. The objectives have been used to develop a range of strategies that address product development linked to environmental and cultural resources, and communities. Those relevant to the Kasese District Tourism Development Plan have been summarised in Table 1. 24

26 Table 1: National Tourism Policy Strategies Theme Product development, marketing, market segments Tourism and natural resources Tourism and cultural resources Communities and ecotourism Strategies Local entrepreneurs at the community or district level shall be encouraged to develop tourism products within the guidelines provided by MTTI. Public sector infrastructure such as roads and airfields shall provide improved accessibility to key tourism products and shall provide the possibility to make tourist circuits. Uganda shall develop a diversified market segmentation strategy aiming at (1) international niche markets, (2) mainstream tourists including mainstream tourists to Tanzania and Kenya, (3) regional markets including South Africa and (4) domestic markets. Category 3 and 4 are considered more robust in case of safety problems. Backpackers and overlanders are often the tourism pioneers to new areas and Uganda shall not discourage this market segment, in particular as backpackers constitute a strong source of income for white-water rafting, gorilla tracking and community tourism. Eco-tourism aiming at enhancing sustainable use of natural resources shall be promoted. Environmental impact assessment (EIA) procedures shall be enhanced in respect of all developments in sensitive tourism areas within and outside protected areas. Support shall be provided to the districts by Government, donors and NGOs to enhance the capabilities on the local level of protecting and developing valuable natural and cultural resources for sustainable use. Marketing and product development of tourism. Cultural events and festivals at the district level will be developed and incorporated into tourism products. Tourism development will be conducted with due sensitivity to local cultures and traditions. Tour operators will be linked to community tourism projects to ensure that culture is featured in tour operator programmes. At the same time, local communities will forge fair commercial arrangements with the national and international tourism agencies. Grass-root developments and sustainable use of resources shall have a strong focus. To this effect NGOs shall be encouraged to work closely with communities to develop new projects according to the market development. Through district planning, communities shall be sensitised to develop district tourism associations and communities shall be encouraged to appreciate the value of natural and cultural resources for tourism development. Developers and investors shall be sensitised to respect the rights and traditions of local communities and local communities shall be directly involved in district tourism developments. The private tourism sector shall thus be encouraged to undertake joint venture operations with communities. UWA and Forest Department shall actively support communities in adjoining areas to national parks and forest reserves to develop ecotourism projects. Eco-tourism and community tourism shall in the first stage focus on the domestic market but shall, when the quality level is acceptable, be incorporated in the tourism products marketed internationally. Community and ecotourism projects shall be encouraged to enhance cultural aspects including promotion of development of handicrafts. Source: MTTI,

27 It should be noted that MTTI has devised a marketing strategy in collaboration with the EU Local government All communities in Uganda are organised in the five-tier local government system that starts at the village (LC 1) to the district level (LC 5). There are councils comprising of elected community representatives. Many functions of government (income tax collection, service provision and aspects of environment management) have been decentralised to the district (LC 5) and sub-county (LC 3) according to the Local Government Act (1997). Of the revenue collected by sub-counties, 65% is retained at that level and 35% remitted to the districts. The 65%, at the sub-county is shared amongst the county (LC 4), sub-county (LC 3), parish (LC2) and village (LC 1) at the ratio of 1:6:1:5 respectively for local development and service provision (UWA, 2000). LC5 Kasese addressing workshop participants The local government system has both administrative and legislative functions and a hierarchy of employed officials, whose roles are outlined in Appendix Supplements to the policies for the purposes of this plan The Tourism Policy of Uganda promotes the development of various forms of tourism, including domestic, foreign, ecotourism and cultural tourism. For the purposes of this plan, standard definitions from international nongovernmental organisations have been used: 26

28 Tourism: The activities of persons travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes (WTO, 2002: 101). Tourist: A visitor who stays at least one night in collective or private accommodation in the place visited (WTO, 2002: 101). Ecotourism: Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." (The International Ecotourism Society, 1992). This means that those who implement and participate in ecotourism activities should follow the following principles: Minimize impact Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts Provide direct financial benefits for conservation Develop environmentally and socially friendly facilities Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climate Local communities were not highlighted as key role players in the Tourism Policy Although communities are mentioned within the tourism policy as participants in the tourism industry, they were not highlighted as key role players. Given the emphasis on this district tourism development plan on poverty alleviation, the promotion of cultural tourism, and domestic tourism, they have been prioritised as tourism stakeholders. 27

29 3.7 PLANNING CONTEXT Three-Year Kasese District Development Plan Kasese District Local Council prepared a 3-yr medium term development plan in line with national policy as outlined in the Poverty Eradication Action Plan and complimentary policies. The planning process was comprehensive and included consultations with many stakeholders. This plan covers three financial years, 2004/2005, 2005/2006 and 2006/2007 and addresses key development concerns and aims at improving the quality of life of the people of Kasese. This plan is in two parts. Part one analyses the current poverty situation and sets outs goals, objectives and strategies in six district directorates. Part two is the Public Investment Programme, which comprises project profiles of the projects to be implemented in the plan period It should be noted that tourism does not fall under any directorate and there is very little mention of tourist related development or activities in this plan. The district does acknowledge the importance of RMNP and QENP and the potential for private sector involvement (Kasese District Environmental Action Plan , 2003). Additionally, there is no tourism project slated for development in the next three years. Most of the projects are for construction of roads, protection of springs, supply of water and electricity, construction of health centres, soil and water conservation, wetland management, new schools etc Uganda Wildlife Authority Management Plans Parts of Rwenzori Mountain, Queen Elizabeth National Park are located within Kasese, and are managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). A small inaccessible part of Kibale Forest National Park is also in the District. The mission of UWA is to conserve and sustainably manage the wildlife and protected areas of Uganda in partnership with the neighbouring communities and other stakeholders for the benefit of the people of Uganda and the global community (Mapesa and Makombo, 2002). It is important that there is harmonisation between the District level tourism efforts and national park tourism activities of UWA. The national parks contain the main nature and wildlife attractions that are drawing international tourists, while Districts are overall responsible for the anchor zones, second tier attractions and communities. The Districts are aiming to encourage visitors that are visiting the parks to spend more time and money in the districts. Community tourism projects acknowledge the support that they received from UWA staff in developing their project, including in kind contributions of transport and cross-visits to other community tourism projects. This Plan provides the opportunity to further harmonise Park and District level plans. 28

30 Queen Elizabeth NP is the most visited game park in Uganda. UWA s Strategic Plan for mentions the following strategic objectives that are related to this plan (UWA, 2002): tourism and self-generated revenue: Optimise and stabilize tourism-based revenue within safe limits of the resource base and encourage the appreciation of wildlife and protected areas by Uganda s citizens; promote and provide technical services and support to local investors in the ecotourism initiatives; ensure development of accommodation facilities for all visitor grades; community conservation and benefits: Optimise protected areas contribution to the welfare of neighbouring communities, and improve relations with local communities; and wildlife management outside protected areas: Ensure UWA meets its obligations regarding problem animal control and safeguard wildlife outside protected areas. Although currently inaccessible in Kasese the Kibale Forest National Park deserves a special mention as it has the reputation as the independent travellers dream (Briggs, 1998), and can provide a model for Kasese District. There are two tourism zones in the park, the Kanyanchu Site and the newly developed Sebetoli zone alongside the Fort Portal Kampala Road (UWA, 2003). The tourism zones contain, tourism infrastructure, a network of visitor trails and limited staff accommodation. There is a 4-day hiking trail linking the two zones through the parks wilderness zone. UWA has a specific tourism plan for Kibale. The park plan envisages greater promotion of Kibale Forest at international level but also integrated with nearby attractions. The plan identifies the importance of providing up to date information to the publishers of travel guidebooks, as well as revising entrance fees and upgrading infrastructure. Community groups already 29

31 provide services to tourist within the park, although the reduction in tourist numbers in recent years led to declining motivation and standards. Kibale has some of the best trained and experienced wildlife guides, making it a potential site for regional tourism training. Integrated resource use zones provide the potential for additional community tourism e.g. herbalist tours. Kibale Forest National Park has a larger population of chimpanzees. Kasese District will make efforts to improve the facilities for independent travellers who make up a significant sector and yet are not particularly well catered for. 3.8 TOURISM MARKET DEMANDS AND ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES The main tourism attractions in Kasese are Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rwenzori Mountains. Table 2 shows the visitor statistics for QENP and RMNP over a five-year period. Table 2: Visitor statistics for RMNP and QENP ( ) National Park Queen Elizabeth National Park 8,743 14,855 27,814 34,608 41,843 Rwenzori Mountain National Park Closed Source: Uganda Wildlife Authority booking office Note that not all of these visitors would have entered the parks through entry points within Kasese and are whole park figures 30

32 Stakeholders present during the planning workshops identified a wide range of additional tourism attractions, activities and facilities within the district. Table 3 on the following page presents the existing accommodation facilities reported in Kasese. This information should be used as a general guide until it can be verified with in situ evaluations of pertinent issues including current visitation levels/occupancies, quality and standards, numbers of beds/capacity, and facilities. Kasese s most upscale lodge, Mweya Lodge has one of the best views in Africa. Margherita Hotel is the best base camp to climb the Rwenzori Mountains 31

33 Table 3: Tourism facilities in/near protected areas in Kasese District and environs Name Location Price per person per night (Ug.Sh.) Holiday Tours Inn Nyakalengija-Ruboni community Bandas Rwenzori Mountaineering Services Ibanda village Bugoye S/C Ibanda village Bugoye S/C Capacity 30, ,000 8 Ibanda village 15-20, beds Nyabitaba Hut Nyabuthaba $15 15 John Matte Hut Bujuku Hut Elena hut Kitandara Hut Guy Yeoman Hut Rwenzori Mountain Rwenzori Mountain Rwenzori Mountain Rwenzori Mountain Rwenzori Mountain Mweya Safari Lodge Mweya Peninsula 100 Mweya Institute Hotels Mweya Peninsula 15, Mweya Guest Houses Mweya PeninsulaC 20, Ishasha Bandas Ishasha-Bushenyi district 10,000 5 Ishasha Hostels Ishasha 10,000 7 Jacana Lodge Jacana Same like Mweya 16 Mweya camp site Mweya in L.Katwe s/c 10, Ishasha camp site Ishasha 10, G & C Wilderness Camp Ishasha 10,000 L.Maramagambo camp site Maramagambo 10, Tree house Kanyancu Tourism site 40,000 Elevated Banda Kanyancu Tourism site 60,000 Kibale camp site Kibale 10,000 Sebitole camp Sebitole 30,000 The range of existing tourism activities reported by workshop participants is indicated in Box 2 on the following page. 32

34 Box 2: Reported existing tourism activities in Kasese District Mountain walking and climbing Bird watching Education and research Fishing in rivers Forest walks, to see waterfalls, trees and wildlife Game viewing (i.e. QENP) Photography and filming Scenic viewing Traditional music, dance and culture Village walks (including visits to see beer brewing, blacksmith, basketry and various cultural attractions) A variety of natural and cultural attractions in Kasese were listed by workshop participants. Given that it was not possible to visit all of the attractions during the time period allocated for district field visits, an indicative appreciation of current use levels by foreign and domestic tourists was sought from participants. The list of attractions in Table 4 (following page). has been annotated with either D or F to reflect known visitation by Domestic or Foreign tourists. In addition, participants were asked to indicate the attractions that were, in their opinion, the most attractive. Lake Katwe Salt Mines are a unique and important natural and cultural attraction. 33

35 Table 4: Reported existing attractions in Kasese district Parish Name of attraction Description Comments Group Kitholhu S/C 1.Buswagha Sacred Grinding stones (D) Seen when there is moon light Potential inside the RMNP 2. Kayimbi Cave (D) Inside RMNP Potential Bakonzo Cultural Association Ihandiro S/C 3. Bubotyo Water falls (D) Makes a good noise musughundu, used for rituals and is mysterious Potential Bakonzo Cultural Association 4. Bubotyo Bulemba-Grave site Isaya Mukirane 1 st King of the Bakonzo (D) Highly regarded by the locals. Adventurous Potential for monument construction Bakonzo Cultural Association 4A. Kirirya/Bukhokholho Tourism camp site Medicinal herbs and spring Potential camp site Ihandiro tourism entry point 5. Kihoko Cave (D) Adventurous 6. Kikyo Muhahirya gravity flow scheme (D) Potential site for camping Serves as a source of water for 5 sub counties 6A. Ihandiro Crafts (D/F?) craftshop Bakonzo Cultural Association Munkunyu S/C 7. Kabingo kyanukyamulyango Cave (D) Adventurous Potential for development Kisinga S/C 8. Kaghando Cultural heritage-hero s tomb (D) (F potential) Has monument constructed Kisinga Eco- Toursim group 9. Kasokero Swamp (D) Potential tourism site 10. Kasokero Water fall on Kabiri river (D) 6m high and 2m wide Adventurous Katwe Kabatoro T.C 11.Katwe Kabatoro Town center Salt lake and salt pans (F) Salt extraction and winning All groups involved in the activitieswomen, men, youth. Rwenzori Low Lands. Kanyiginya Women s group 12. Rwenjubu Munyanyange bird sanctuary (F) Bird viewing and studying 13. Katwe Top Hill Fort George (D) Historical Monument Constructed by Lugard little remains visible Town council 14. L.Edward shore Crocodiles & Bird watching (?) 15. Kakone Bwenda lodge (D/F potential) Partially Lodging facilities Ownership of the plot is still contentious btn the local gov t and UWA Kasese Distric Council L.Katwe S/C 16. Kahokya Crater lake Petroleum like smell 17. Kikorongo Equator line (F) Potential tourist site 18. Hamukungu Fishing, bird watching Campsite 34

36 19. Kisenyi Salt lake, animal viewing Salt extraction Muhokya S/C 20. Muhokya Lime extraction Kasese Town Council 21. Kibenge Hot spring Believed to cure diseases Community trail Kasese Community Trail Tours Association 22. Town center Swamp kasesa behind Bakoko market Has wild animals, natural salty water 23. Kamaiba Cobalt, gold extraction Cobalt mining in progress, has stock piles left by copper extraction. Kasese Community Trail Tours Association Kasese Cobalt Company Ltd 33. Town center Crafts (F & D) craftshop Kasese Community Trail Tours Association 35. Kyanzuki Palace Cultural regalia and architecture (D and potential F) Rukoki S/C 24. Kogere Nyamwamba river valley viewing Karusandara S/C Location of Rwenzururu Royal Regalia and Engorwe (spirit house), Ekhyanganda (parley house/parliament) Campsite with hostel Viewing cultural architecture and artefacts, potential for history and culture tours Rwenzururu veterans Association NEAT safaris 25. Kanyatete Sacred tree musaja mukulu Adventurous Banyabindi Cultural group 26. Kanyatete Kanyatete hill Good viewpoint 27. Kabukero Hill Good viewpoint 28. Rwamusakara Fishing lake Camping area Bugoye S/C 29. Mihunga Salt and hotsprings Good camp site CERES 30. Mihunga Organic foods Organic farming 31. Buraro Sacred tree mbura bakondi Potential for development 32. Ruboni Camping site and Bandas (D & F) Community trail Ruboni community group 33. Ruboni crafts craftshop Ruboni Community women Association Maliba S/C 34. Rukoki Organically produced foods Shop Earth Market Proceeds go to NGO to training farmers in natural resource use Neat Safaris 35

37 Overlanders returning from a hike on Rwenzori Mountains. There were also a range of existing products and services that participants reported were currently sold to tourists. These are outlined in Table 5. Table 5: Existing reported tourism products Kasese District RMNP Trekking (hiking)-central circuit Peak climbing Margherita, Alexanda etc Nature walk in the park and community land in Buraso QENP Boat rides Game viewing Bird watching Chimp trekking Nature walks Site seeing (craters/caves) 36

38 4 TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN 4.1 PHYSICAL ANALYSIS Topography The district's uniqueness cannot be over-emphasised from the exceptional diversity of contrasting physical features which range from large lakes, expansive flat lowlands through undulating hills to snow-capped mountains (the Rwenzoris), spiced with the spectacular flora and fauna Soils Varying climatic conditions ranging from temperature, tropical, alpine to semi-arid planes and a bi-modal rainfall pattern have rendered the soils so fertile that this can support almost any agricultural activity Hydrology The district is endowed with many water sources that include lakes, rivers and streams. Rwenzori Mountains are one of the major sources of water to the water bodies. Rivers include Mubuku, Rwimi, Nyamwamba, Ssebwe that harbours Mubuku Irrigation Scheme, Nyamugasani and River Lhubiriha that harbours Bwera Water Scheme at the Uganda-Congo border. The Lakes include Lake George, Lake Edward and Lake Katwe, while the crater lakes on top of Mt. Rwenzori provide extra water. Generally, the district is served by many safe water sources that include boreholes, protected wells and springs and piped water mostly in the urban areas. Lake George is an important water resource for several fishing villages. 37

39 4.1.4 Climate Rainfall The district receives an average rainfall ranging between mm annually and two rain seasons that come between March to May and August to November Temperature Temperatures normally range between 23.9ºc and 30.0ºc. During the summer season it does get very hot in the lower areas of the district Vegetation The vegetation in Kasese District varies according to altitude. Lower elevations have varied habitats including, open grassland with thickets, thick bush, forest, swamps and lake-shore. while higher elevations have montane forests and moorland habitats. Decreasing temperatures with increasing altitude have resulted in a remarkable zoning of vegetation. The most striking plants can be found above 3,000 m, where areas of giant tree heathers support unique aerial epiphytic gardens. The alpine zone includes the giant lobelias and groundsels, hallmarks of the Rwenzori. Typical wetland vegetation habitat at the edge of RAMSAR site, Lake George. The Rwenzori are well known for their unusual flora which includes many species endemic to the Albertine Rift in the higher altitude zones. Most significant are the giant heathers, ground-sells, ericas and lobelias of the tree heath and alpine zones. There are five major zone: a broken montane forest zone occurs below 2,400m; a bamboo forest zone occurs (in pure stands in many places) up to an altitude of 3,000m; a tree heath vegetation zone of giant heathers, frequently over 10m in height, extends up to 3,800m; at the same altitude, although on better soils, a tangled undergrowth punctuated by a mixture of small trees predominates; and an Afro-alpine moorland zone upwards to 4,400m. As a result of most effort having being focused on the high altitude flora, only 75 tree species (18% of the country s total) have so far been recorded in the montane forest zone. 38

40 A flower in Rwenzoris Mountain National Park Fauna Kasese District is blessed with a high diversity of fauna. The two main areas are the Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) and Rwenzoris Mountain National Park (RMNP). The checklist of mammals of QENP includes 66 species. The larger mammalian fauna of the park is characterized by a few species furnishing an exceptionally high biomass. During the late 1960s, the biomass densities recorded from the park exceeded those published for any wildlife community anywhere in the world. To date, the Park main biomass contributors includes: hippopotamus, leopard, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, topi, bushbucks, waterbucks, rare giant forest hogs, aardvarks, porcupines, pangolins, bush pigs, and warthogs, lions, hyenas, civets, etc. Reptiles include the Nile Crocodiles, African rock python, monitor lizards, spitting cobra, buffer adder, black mamba, Gabon viper, green snakes etc. 39

41 A young male lion basking in the afternoon sun along Lake Edward. QENP is a world bio-sphere reserve (UNESCO, 1979) includes a RAMSAR wetland site and is a classified Important Bird Area (IBA) by Birdlife International. QENP has 568 of Uganda s 1017 species of birds (over a quarter of Africa s bird species), more than any other park in Africa. White Pelicans waiting for some fish trash on Lake Edward. 40

42 Knowledge of the fauna is skewed in favour of the higher altitude species. Overall, the Rwenzori mountains contain at least 89 species of forest bird (27% of the country's total), 4 species of diurnal primate, and 15 species of butterfly (22% of the country's total) (Howard, 1991). Although none of these species are unique to the Rwenzori, many are endemic to the Albertine Rift region (for instance 19 of the birds are Albertine Rift endemics), and a high level of sub-specific endemism occurs, including the Rwenzori colobus monkey, hyrax and leopard. A recent study of invertebrate life forms listed 60 species in the alpine zone, 25 of which were new to science (Salt, 1987). This is indicative of a much more extensive fauna waiting to be discovered. Although in low numbers, the following globally threatened species are found in the park: elephant Loxodonta africana (V), chimpanzee Pan troglodytes (V) and l'hoests monkey Cercopithecus l'hoesti (V). Frog in Rwenzori Mountain National Park 41

43 4.2 OPPORTUNITIES AND CONSTRAINTS ANALYSIS During the Opportunities phase of the SWOT analysis, workshop participants identified a number of potential new tourism attractions and activities that could be developed in the district. These had the potential to diversify the industry and spread visitors around Kasese. In addition, participants recognized that some existing attractions and activities could be developed further for different types of tourists, or greater numbers of visitors. The range of accommodation and new products opportunities suggested is shown in Table 6. Table 6: Potential tourism accommodation and products Location Accommodation Products RMNP Ruboni camp Hiking (Kyarumba & Kilembe routes, Eco-lodge (Inns in Uganda) Kitholhu, Kasangali, Buhuhira does this include a new mts circuit?) Rock climbing tracking boat riding bird watching mine touring cultural shrines and tombs QENP Upper market lodges (Ishasha & Kyambura) Camp sites (Kyambura, L.Kyasanuuka, L.Murumuri, Leopard Loop, pelican point, R. Ishasha) Bwenda guest house (pending resolution on site between KDLG & UWA) Hot ballooning (over Kyemengo crater) walking safaris night game drives sport fishing cultural shrines Queen s pavilion Katwe salt lake and industry Planning workshop participants brainstormed on the current weaknesses and constraints to the tourism industry, and also a range of practical actions that could be taken to address some of these. The results of these discussions are summarised below in Table 7. Table 7: Tourism constraints and solutions - Kasese Weakness/constraint Proposed actions to address weakness/constraints 1. Lack of awareness of tourism opportunities 2. Low prioritization and focus of tourism by Awareness creation through: Training Sensitization on tourism opportunities through workshops, meetings Dissemination of information through radio, exhibitions, publications, Internet, exchange visits, papers on potential of tourism District council to pass ordnance to recruit district tourism officer 42

44 district administration 3. Lack of approved district tourism plan 4. Absence of organised tourism development or promotion organization 5. Inadequate skills in development, marketing and management of tourism products, goods and services including safety. 6. Inadequate/poor quality of infrastructure facilities and existing tourism attractions. 7. Insufficient capital to kick-start tourism and improve facilities/products 9. Negative community attitudes towards protected areas 10. Insufficient competitive edge compared to the rest of East Africa 11. Lack of planning/development guidelines related to tourism infrastructure Recruit tourism officer Allocate funding for tourism development District Council to approve plan Support development of a district tourism association Lobby for development of standard curriculum in tourism Implement training programs to address specific needs/gaps Encourage partnerships with private sector that ensure transfer of skills in managing tourism facilities In existing training facilities, needs assessment to identify gaps should be implemented to address poor training Lobby and advocate for the establishment of a regional tourism training school Establish linkages with relevant volunteer organizations to support skills development in tourism management Establish linkages with institutions in the district to provide training e.g. wildlife training institute- Katwe Identify gaps in quality and lack of infrastructure with input from relevant technical expertise (MTTI, consultants) Where relevant district administration improves facilities and tourism attractions Where relevant district administration supports communities to improve facilities and tourism attractions Develop by-laws that set standards for tourism Disseminate information on possible funding bodies e.g. GEF small grants, STABEX, DFCU Development fund, Bank of Uganda fund, microfinance institutions Allocate funds for a strategy fund to support tourism Encourage partnerships with private sector partners that bring investment resources Lobby donors to allocate resources for tourism development Create awareness about the positive values of the protected areas and tourism Develop benefit sharing schemes for the local communities Encourage community participation in the management and planning of Protected areas Encourage development of a district tourism Marketing strategy Ensure regular collection of information on tourism products for dissemination to the tourism industry Provide incentives for investors to tourism development in Kasese Engage relevant expertise to support development of planning/development guidelines related to tourism infrastructure and product Develop bylaws to ensure guidelines are implemented Additional weaknesses that were discussed, but that there was insufficient time to explore actions included communication problems, security, marketing and advertising, reliance on a limited range of tourism products, lack of investment, 43

45 inflation, lack of tourists, low levels of revenue shared from parks with communities that is not shared with affected people, and that local culture was being diluted by foreign culture. 4.3 OVERALL TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN Planning philosophy The creatively merges the opportunities that the district offers with economics and planning that will lead to a successful low impact tourism destination and hopefully improve engage the people of Kasese District,s prosperity over the coming years. (garbled). The Overall Tourism Development Plan addresses the quadruple bottom line of sustainable development: economic, environmental, social and spiritual sustainability. The main philosophy of the is to diversify the tourism product (facility and activities) and be able to offer tourists a wide range of experiences and accommodation. The main concept is to build upon the park based international level attractions and develop further tourism attractions outside the protected areas of Rwenzori, Queen Elizabeth. The will help encourage private sector and local communities to develop out-of-park tourism enterprises such as mountain biking, hiking on the hills, visits to cultural and spiritual sites, cultural performances, community walks and tours, local markets and handicraft demonstrations etc. The Kangando Martyr s Site will be developed as a new tourism attraction. Based on the several community workshops that were held in the District, it is apparent that Kasese s citizens are receptive to the prospect of 44

46 appropriate tourism development. Those who participated were enthusiastic and endorsed the concept. In keeping with recommendations of the Tourism Policy for Uganda, the 3-Yr Kasese District Development Plan, the QENP Management Plan and the Rwenzori Mountain and Kibale National Park General Management Plans, the primary objectives of the are to support viability/development of the district as a tourism hub and to encourage sustainable livelihoods. The establishes the following aims: 1. Promotion of the district as a unique tourism destination of Western Uganda. 2. Recognition that all tourism development has costs, and that the benefits to local communities must out weigh the costs. 3. Sustainable use of the natural resources. One of the main aims of the tourism plan is that it benefits local communities The promotes the cultivation and application of innovative development solutions for the long-term economic benefit and participation of the local population. It will also attract quality tourism development while concurrently fostering protection of the culture and heritage of the residents of Kasese. 45

47 With the implementation of scalable development, it is expected that other economic opportunities will follow for local participation and ownership to the benefit of district residents e.g. transportation, food service, craftwork, laundry, waste collection and recycling, fishing tours, recreational services, cultural dance and music tours, security, landscaping, catering etc. Local community members will conduct fishing tours of Lake George. The is also based on the simple premise that the Local District Council desires an increase in quality sustainable tourism with its related employment opportunities for Kasese. The Council recognizes the need to create infrastructure in the district to facilitate those opportunities. Guiding principles The need for development that is compatible with environment has driven the various criteria for tourism development in Kasese. Some of the key principles of the are: 1. The establishment of an overall sustainable tourism development style related to the high environmental and social values of the area. 2. The establishment of appropriate planning guidelines related to all aspects of tourism development. 3. To strengthen and show case the unique cultures of the district 4. To protect biodiversity and the forests. 5. To protect and further enhance sensitive ecological areas. 46

48 6. The establishment of appropriate buffer and support zones to tourism areas. Specific Guiding Principles used incorporated into the Kasese District Tourism Development Plan include: Balance economic, social and environmental issues to achieve ongoing benefit to residents, visitors, and future generations; No tourism development on ridgelines; No tourism development on slopes over 30%; No tourism development within critical view corridors; and No tourism development in the conservation areas that could degrade the physical and visual aesthetics of the area. Presentation of culture in a self-affirming and dignified manner that does not undermine specific cultural practices or services. Kasese District has great potential developing into a flagship sustainable tourism destination that would benefit the stakeholders without compromising the environment. Sustainable tourism can heighten local awareness of the importance of conservation, provide new incentives for governments and the local communities to preserve protected areas and generate revenue for local and regional economies. Key elements of the plan Key elements of the plan are: Plan Duration District Zoning Plan Pilot Model Projects Objectives, strategic directions, actions Circuits The District Zoning Plan develops the broad zoning within the district. This provides broad guidance as to WHERE should tourism development occur. The Pilot Model Projects will act as catalysts and guide WHAT kinds of tourism developments should occur within the district, and help build the capacity within the district to deliver high quality sustainable tourism. The Overall objectives, strategic directions and actions are the strategic elements of the plans and link in with national and international policies and give guidance to HOW should tourism be implemented within the ten years of the plan. The CIRCUITS link the different attractions, accommodations and transport systems together into potential flows for tour operators. Duration of the Plan: The plan shall be for ten years. Implementation of the plan, at least from the Local Government shall be tied in with the annual rolling District Development Plan. A review shall be held after five years to follow progress and make any amendments as necessary. 47

49 4.3.4 Pilot Projects The Pilot/Model projects are NOT intended to be the only projects that are taken forward within the life of the plan, but models and pilots that when successfully implemented will significantly improve the tourism product within the district and can stimulate other similar projects. Within the plan some further projects are identified that can also be taken forward. The models therefore: Provide examples for a range of products that can be developed to enhance district tourism products Act a pilots where the private, public and community sectors can gain further experience in developing a product Kick start a project by providing a worked project concept Provide a focus for public, private and community investments. The pilot model projects provide models across the districts. Each district can refer to the other district plans to understand these templates. Eight model projects have thus been developed across four districts where plans have been developed. The model projects are: 1. Canopy Walk: Kisoro District Bwindi Forest 2. Board Walk and Trail: Kisoro District Echuya Forest Trail 3. Holocaust Museum: Kanungu District Kanungu Town 4. Ecolodge: Kanungu District Bwindi Forest 5. Cultural Centre: Kabarole District Karambi Tombs 6. Visitor Centre: Kabarole District Crater Lakes 7. Mid-Range Lodge Kasese District Bwenda Lodge 8. Ecotour Operator Kasese District Kasese Town Goals and Purpose of Kasese Tourism Development Plan Long Term Goal: The economic, social and environmental benefits from tourism are increased in real terms on a sustained, long-term basis and equitably distributed within the district, while the potential costs of tourism are minimised. Purpose of the 10 year Tourism Plan: That Kasese district has an improved tourism infrastructure, human resources, enabling environment and resource base and is better known on the international market place. Tourism development in the district will therefore aim to: Increase the total flow of cash income within the district of Kasese. Support and effectively interface and benefit from the parks based tourist products. Strengthen and support communities materially and culturally 48

50 Promote improved management and productivity of natural resources (in terms of flow of materials, support to both biodiversity and of the environment, and ecosystem services) Increase the number of responsible tourists visiting the district. Strategic Directions The following strategic directions are identified to achieve these goals and objectives. 1. Increase the capacity of individuals and institutions to manage a superior quality and equitable tourism product. (Capacity Building, investment, governance) a. Training on job, short courses, seminars, hospitality (Jinja & in time MOMU) 2. Develop an attractive and appropriate well laid out, tourism infrastructure within the District which minimises negative impacts (marketing, impact assessment) a. Improve attractions, accommodations, transports systems, b. Impact assessment and monitoring c. Planning controls 3. Develop and maintain an enabling environment within the district a. Peace and security, basic services etc (security) b. Well-managed and equitable park system well integrated with local communities. (governance, environment, participation) c. Community led sustainable natural resource land management (environment and natural resources) 4. Expanded International and National Marketing: 49

51 5 ZONING PLAN 5.1 ZONING The establishes zoning categories (see below), which are based on an underlying philosophy of creating a balance between tourism development objectives and reasonable utilization of the land and its carrying capacity. Recognizing the importance of future tourism development and growth of Kasese and its inhabitants, the location of the various tourism elements takes precedence as a planning criterion in the development of the Kasese District Tourism Development Plan. The Strategy for the Kasese District Tourism Development Plan suggests the demarcation of four main zones: Tourism Anchor Zones Secondary Tourism Zones Conservation Zones Residential and Agricultural Zones Tourism Anchor Zones The component of the land uses which requires special consideration will be the Tourism Anchor Zones because of their need to interface with all kinds of tourists and desire to capitalize on amenity exposure. These are the zones that already have a high traffic of tourism flow. There will be three tourism anchor zones Kasese Town, Mweya Peninsula and Bwera (Please see plan on following page). Kasese Town will be the main Anchor Tourism Zone for the District. 50

52 Kasese town will be the main anchor for the plan. Its importance for tourism has declined in recent years as witnessed by the following quote. Hot, dusty and run down, Kasese is not the most prepossessing of Ugandan Towns, and its pokey atmosphere contrasts oddly with its attractive setting at the base of one of Africa s largest mountain ranges. As the terminus of the railway line from Kampala, Kasese was once a popular springboard for independent travel in western Uganda, but following the suspension of passenger services it has fallen of the travel map somewhat. Briggs The town needs to be revitalised and put back on the tourist map. This objective should be part of the long-term development of the town to enhance its sense of identity, and aesthetics. Planning controls in key areas should help to achieve this. All efforts should be made to restart passenger rail services to the town Secondary Tourism Zones The Secondary Tourism Zones are spread out throughout the district and include the hills, fruit farms, waterfalls, cultural villages etc. Planning and regulations in these areas would not be as stringent as in the anchor areas. Kihoko cave will be designated a secondary tourism zone Conservation Zones The third and probably the most important land use component in Kasese are the Conservation areas. These areas will encompass forests and swamps, and will form the backbone of the Kasese District Tourism Development Plan. 51

53 Activities in the conservation zones of Rwenzori and QENP will mainly include tracking, nature walks, scenic viewing and other related tourism activities. No major Kanyatete Sacred Tree: infrastructure development will be allowed. Minimum infrastructure to be allowed in this zone will be for interpretive purposes and aimed at facilitating visitor access to the area with as little impact on the natural resources as possible. This will include trails, shelters for resting and protection from adverse weather conditions, boardwalks, canopy viewing platforms and a few interpretive panels for orientation and interpretation. Whether or not to allow resource harvesting by communities in this zone will depend on the results of the planned review of the multiple use programme (UWA, 2002). Box 3: Culture, history and legend When the government was building the railway to Kasese the Kanyatete sacred tree was in the way so they cut it down. The next day it was miraculously standing again. Next they cut it down and this time dug out all the roots, but again the following day the tree was once more standing. Finally defeated the railway was built around the tree. Kasese Workshop participant June The Kanyatete Sacred Fig Tree attracts traditionalist from as far as Ankole district, is located in the Kasese part of Kibale Foest National Park. Currently inaccessible it may form part of a future cultural tour Residential and Agricultural Zones All those areas that are not in the Tourism or Conservation zones will be designated Residential and Agricultural Zones. As one would expect, this zone will cover the largest area (Approx. 30.4%). Interspersed among these four strategic zones will be the support services such as commercial, educational, medical, industrial, utility services, sports etc. A village on Market Day in a residential and agricultural zone. 52

54 6 TOURISM CIRCUIT PLAN In order to create varied experiences and at the same time diversify the tourism product, several circuits have been identified. Local knowledge and wisdom was helpful in creating these circuits, which have been identified in map on following page. These circuits are: 1. Kilembe Mines and Kibenge Hotsprings ½ day Breakfast at Margherita Hotel, then on a tour of the famous Kilembe Mines lunch and swim at Kibenge Hotspings - back to Kisoro at 1 p.m. Margherita Hotel will be the hotel from which some of the tours will begin. 2. Lake George Fishing 1 day Breakfast in Kasese town, then to Kisenyi Fishing Village take a locally guided canoe to the lake for a day of fishing- lunch on one of the lake islands - back to Kasese town by 5 p.m. Local fisherman will take tourists on a fishing tour. 53

55 3. Birdwatching Trip RAMSAR 1 Day Leave early from Kasese town, then to Kisenyi Fishing Village for breakfast take a locally guided motorboat assisted canoe to the northern side of the lake for a day of birdwatching. - lunch by the lake - back to Kasese town by 5 p.m. The RAMSAR site north of Lake George is full of birds. 4. Northern Kasese Sampler 1 Day Leave after breakfast from Kasese Town, travel by road and then 1 hr. hike to Rwagimba Hotsprings lunch at a local village home. drive to the confluence of Rwimi-Kuruhe Rivers - end the trip with a tour of the hanging rocks - back to Kasese town by 6 p.m. The Rwagimba Hotsprings are popular with the local population. 54

56 5. Ruboni Caves /Organic Farm - ½ Day Leave after breakfast from Kasese Town, travel by road to Ibanda hike to Ruboni Caves - end the trip with a tour of the organic farm picnic lunch by the River Mubuku - back to Kasese town by 2.00 p.m. Picnic lunch by River Mubuku at the base of the Rwenzoris 6. Rwenzori Climb (east route) 7 Day Day 1- After breakfast in Kasese Town, drive to Ibanda (1,600m), the starting point of the Ruwenzori climb. Trek for 4 hours along the Mubuku River night 1 will be at Nyabitaba Hut (2,650m). Day 2- After breakfast, cross the Mubuku River - continue walking along the river to the Nyamileju Hut for lunch - After about 7 hours walking, night 2 will be at John Matte Hut. Day 3- After breakfast, trek for 5 hours to reach the Bujuku lake- After a short break, another hour's walk to spend night 3 at Bujuku Hut (3,977-m). Day 4- After breakfast, walk up and down cliffs, ascend the Scott - Elliot saddle (4372m) and descend again to the Kitandara Lake before proceeding to Kitandara hut (4027 m) for dinner and overnight. 55

57 Day 5- Walk via the Fresh field saddle (4280m) passing Bujongolo cave to Mubuku Gorge. The walk takes about 8 hours. Overnight will be at the Guy Yeoman Hut (3450m). Day 6- Descend to the Mubuku valley passing very steep water falls through a bamboo forest. Overnight will be at the Nyabitaba Hut. Day 7- Descend to Ibanda. Return to Kasese Town. Day 2: View of Mubuku Bujuku River Confluence from bridge. 7. QENP Game Drive/ Equator/Boating on Lake George - 1 Day Leave at dawn from Kasese Town, travel to eastern sector of QENP for game drive and boat trip on Lake George- lunch at Mweya Safari Lodge on return stop at the Equator - back to Kasese town by 6.00 p.m. 56

58 8. Katwe Salt Lake and Birdwatching ½ Day Leave Mweya Visitor Center after breakfast drive to an area just before Katwe town for birdwatching- travel to Lake Katwe for an interpretive tour of the salt mines.- lunch at Mweya Safari Lodge Salt Ponds in Lake Katwe will make for an interpretive experience. 9. QENP Game Drive / Kyemengo Crater/Equator ½ Day Leave Mweya Visitor Center before breakfast game drive to Kyemengo Cratertravel to the Equator line- lunch at Mweya Safari Lodge Young male Uganda Kob in QENP. 57

59 10. Lake Edward Sunset Cruize and wildlife viewing Meet at Mweya Visitor Center for orientation tour walk down to the jetty for sunset cruise of Lake Edward. return to Mweya Safari Lodge for dinner. Sunset Cruise on Lake Edward 11. Overnight Camping along Kazinga Channel 2 Day Meet after Breakfast at Mweya Visitor Center for orientation tour walk down to the jetty for cruise on Kazinga Channell. pitch tents along channel and overnight camping - return to Mweya Safari Lodge for lunch. All trips from Mweya Peninsula will originate from the Visitor Center. 12. Lake George Birdwatching tour 1 Day Meet after Breakfast at Mweya Visitor Center for orientation tour walk down to the jetty for cruise to Lake George via Kazinga Channel. boat birdwatching tour along 58

60 lake picnic lunch on the shores of lake afternoon boat birdwatching tour along lake return to Mweya lunch at Mweya Safari Lodge Ecotourists will camp on the shores of Lake George. 13. Chimpanzee tracking in Cyambura Gorge 1 Day Meet at dawn at Mweya Visitor Center drive to edge of Cyambura Gorge go on a chimpanzee track with local guides return to top of the gorge for a picnic lunch return to Mweya tea at Mweya Safari Lodge. The one of a kind Cyambura Gorge QENP. 59

61 14. Martyr s Tombs and Bakonzo Cultural Center ½ Day This tour starts in Bwera go by road to Kagando to visit the Hero s tombs visit the adjoining local primary school return to Beira and visit the Living History of the Bakonzo People at the Cultural Center. Detail of a ceremonial Bakonzo Dress. 15. Bakonzo Cultural Landscapes 1 Day This cultural tour starts in early in Bwera first stop will be Musughundi Waterfalls second stop will be Chameleon Rocks picnic lunch thirds stop will be Kihoko Cave and final stop will be Bakonzo Cultural Center - return to Beira at 6.30 p.m. Hiking through the cultural landscapes of the Bakonzo 60

62 16. Rwenzori Climb ( new south route) 7 days This is a new route that begins from Beira and goes up north and parallel to the Congolese border. The trek goes all the way to Guy Yeoman Hut before returning back via the nine lakes area. Detail of lichen in Rwenzori Mountain National Park. 17. Rwenzori Trek and Grinding Rocks 2 day This is a trek for beginners that starts from Beira and goes up north into the RMNPvisit the grinding rocks and camp overnight in the park - return the following day via a loop trail back to Beira. Native flower in Rwenzori Mountain National Park. 61

63 It should be noted that there are numerous other opportunities for circuits and these should be explored once there is critical mass and market demand. Regional circuits are extremely important if we are to ensure sustainable tourism. The linkages with neighbouring districts and countries provide varied experiences and give an added advantage to the tourism product. 6.1 DISTRICT TOURISM WITHIN THE REGIONAL CONTEXT The District of Kasese is found within the Albertine Rift or western arm of the Great Rift Valley. Mainly comprised of medium to high altitude forest (ranging from 800m to over 4000m and afro-alpine vegetation, intersected by numerous rivers, lakes and swamps, the diversity of wildlife in this region is ranked amongst the highest in Africa, and one of the greatest priorities globally. All these aspects make the Albertine Rift an attractive tourism destination with key unique attractions such as the mountain gorillas, rift valley lakes, Rwenzori s and rivers. The District of Kasese borders the Democratic Republic to the west and the districts of Bundibugyo and Kabarole to the north, Bushenyi to the South and Kamwngwe to the East The District of Kasese borders the Parc National des Virunga in DRC which encompasses protected areas that border both Queen Elizabeth National Park and Rwenzori National Park. The opportunities to develop unique tourism circuits across the neighbouring districts and international boundary with DRC are large and would be unsurpassed anywhere in the world. The following advantages to developing regional tourism have been identified:- Increasing foreign revenue Encourage investors in the region with job creation Free exchange with local communities Regional collaboration can help regional marketing of products rather than individual attempts Improved protection of resources Develop cultural tourism for cultural harmony Contribute to strengthening regional security Increase the number of tourists in the region Improve the livelihoods and well being of local people Longer stay by tourists resulting in higher returns Creation of peace and understanding Benchmarking: best practices to enhance our impact Wider range of products Wider market Encourage better co-ordination of tourism agencies in the region Enhanced communication between the three countries at the field level Harmonised planning eg development of a master tourism plan across shared resources 62

64 The district of Kasese is ideally situated to contribute to the development of regional tourism not only between neighbouring districts but also with DRC. Tourism development within Kasese should therefore consider opportunities beyond the district boundaries, resulting in increasing revenue across the region as a result of longer stays by tourists in the region. The following actions are recommended to enhance regional tourism:- a. Integrate district tourism plans with regional tourism circuits b. Local government officials to participate in discussions about regional tourism c. Local government to promote regional tourism initiatives by developing relevant bye-laws d. Provide information on regional tourism products at key locations throughout the districts e. Encourage communication between tour operators across the region f. Encourage linkages between different enterprises across the region eg transport, lodges REGIONAL CIRCUITS 1. Virunga National Park 2 day This is a tour that starts from Beira and goes west to the Central Virungas via the border town of Mpondwe afternoon game drive in the Virunga Park - night one is spend in Beni after the following day morning game drive, return to Beira. Hills of Virunga National Park as viewed from border town of Mpondwe. 2. Maramagambo Forest 2 Day This is a tour that starts from Mweya and goes south to the neighbouring District of Bushenyi where Maramagambo Forest is located lunch at Jacana Lodge - afternoon 63

65 game walk into the forest- night one is spend at Jacana Lodge after morning forest game walk return to Mweya for lunch at Mweya Safari Lodge. Swimming Pool of Jacana Lodge with Maramagambo Forest in the horizon. 3. Ft. Portal/ Kibale Forest National Park 2 Days This tour starts from Kasese Town and goes north to the neighbouring District of Kabarole where Ft. Portal and Kibale Forest NP are located lunch in Ft. Portal- visit the King s Palace and Tombs - night one is spend at tree house in Kibale Forest National Park morning trek to observe Chimpanzees - return to Kasese Town for lunch. Tree House in Kibale Forest National Park 4. Rwenzori Loop 10 Days This tour starts from Kasese Town go by road to Ibanda begin climbing the east route all the upto Guy Yeoman Hut and then continue across the border to climb 64

66 Margherita or Vittorio Emanuele peaks go down the mountain from the Congolese side take the loop road back via Beni and Mpondwe return to Kasese Town or continue to Kampala from Kikorongo. Leaf detail Rwenzori Mountain National Park 5. Ishasha Sector. This tour starts from visitor center in Mweya and goes south to the neighbouring District of Kanungu where the Ishasha sector of QENP is located picnic lunch along the Ishasha River.- afternoon game drive in the Park - night one is spend at camping site along the river after the following day morning game drive, return to Mweya. Warthog in the Ishasha Sector of QENP 65

67 7 FIRST PHASE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS Taking into consideration the current demand for low-impact destinations, it is crucial that the design, development and operations of Kasese District, place the social, ecological and spiritual integrity of the region as a top priority. Any facility or other infrastructure should be developed in a responsible manner, at a scale that is appropriate to the local ecological and cultural situation. By consensus, stakeholders selected two projects for implementation for Phase One of the Kasese Tourism Development Plan. These projects would be developed first so as to jumpstart sustainable tourism in Kasese District. The two projects are: 1. Bwenda Lodge Rehabilitation 2. Ecotour Operator 7.1 BWENDA LODGE Location Bwenda Lodge has a key location in an enclave within Uganda s most visited National Park. This area has a fascinating 800 yr old salt production and exploration history (see box), with wildlife and cultural resource and with its own significant domestic tourism product the Katwe community groups could be in the position to step up to a mid-level tourism project as presented by Bwenda Lodge. Existing abandoned buildings of Bwenda Lodge 66

68 7.1.2 Concept and Programme The main concept is to create a mid-end lodge that not only attracts international budget travelers but local tourists from Kampala and Entebee. Bwenda Lodge has a A+ location overlooking Lake Edward and this alone should attract people. However, there is a lot of work that needs to be done to convert the existing buildings into a 3-star facility. All the existing buildings will be renovated and several new buildings will be added to cater for midend visitors. The Ex-Governor s house has the best views and location and will be converted to a suite The programme for this development is: Entry Drive and Parking Reception Lounge Dining Kitchen and store Outside Dining terrace Presidential Suite 8 rooms Back of House Garden Gazebo Trails 67

69 The single rooms will be re-designed and made more adaptable for family use. 7.2 ECOTOUR OPERATOR Location The Ecotour Operator will be based out the main Tourism Anchor Zone, Kasese Town. It will have an office and a good sized car park to hold several vehicles Concept and Programme The proposed ecotourism development project for Kasese District is an Ecotour Operator. Kasese District has many attractions and opportunities for touring BUT there is no ecotour operator to provide authentic ecotourism experiences. Kabarole District has an ecotour operator who has been very successful. The ecotour operation will serve the needs of all the various community owned tourism enterprises and will also cater to a boutique clientele that want a personalized and individual experience. Since there are so may opportunities for tours as highlighted in the Circuit plan, the demand will outweigh the supply of tourist activities, thus confirming the need for an eco-tour operation. Some suggested ecotour excursions are mentioned on Page 78: Environmental Considerations For each of the outlined excursions in the program, environmental impacts are expected to be negligible and will be completely avoided with good 68

70 guidelines. Simple good practice rules such as no feeding or harassing of wildlife, creation of bird watching blinds to avoid disruption of bird populations and the setting out of trails to avoid trampling of vegetation would eliminate most potential environmental impacts. Eco-tour operator will abide to strict ecotourism guidelines no feeding of birds. 7.3 COMMUNITY ISSUES Overarching community issues in Kasese Kasese District has both unique opportunities and significant challenges in developing a tourism product that will effectively deliver benefits at the community level. The presence of nationally important and globally significant nature-based tourism attractions within the district, and the concentration of similar attractions within neighbouring districts and countries, speaks to a very high potential for tourism. This is supported by an interesting, albeit largely hidden history and culture. The district along with others in Western Uganda produces craftwork of international standing. The enthusiasm, energy and dedication of the district government team is a great asset, and would benefit from increased capacity in tourism planning 69

71 and development. Private sector development and experience, within the district is relatively low. Investment in tourism is also low at all levels (community, district, national and international levels), and the tourism products that are in place are not necessarily proactively linked in with the community. The region has only recently emerged from a period of instability and rebel activity, and key protected areas have been open only for a short period (3yrs). There are signs of recovery in tourism but maintaining security is a critical task to building a sustained tourism product for the district. There are relatively few well-established community tourism enterprises in the district, the Rwenzori Mountain Services operation being the main exception. Community projects have as much potential to divide communities as to unite and benefit them. Appropriate governance at the community level is as important as at any other to ensure benefits are shared equitably. The tourism pot is small yet the needs are great. The district statistics show that the district is below the national average for a number of key development indicators, population density is high, and the overall total population is in excess of half a million people. Tourism development needs to be carefully planned and develop incrementally, and the expectations of the tourism sector to make major inroads into poverty of itself should not be overstated. However, it undoubtedly could have a positive impact in reducing poverty levels, with sound careful and implementation, and with integration of other sectors. Organic agriculture is one such synergy. International demand for organic agriculture is increasing. With high population densities soil fertility management will be critical. A number of local NGO s are making the link between organic farming and tourism. The district produces craftwork of international quality, especially basketry, and with planning, could be exported in significant quantities. Craftwork at the household level can be critical for household needs and women to fund their children s education. Indications of Box 4: Building and Development Trends and Aspirations A challenge at the community level in developing tourism products is that the tastes and aspirations of community members are often opposite to that of tourists. Tourists from developed, often urban areas are seeking to reconnect with nature and looking to experience communities in harmony with nature. There is also a movement in the developed world which has been called new traditional which attempts to bring communities in the North towards sustainability by returning to more village and walkable scale developments, and a return to traditional building techniques. Ugandan communities in efforts to achieve development and modernity are moving in the opposite direction including using modern materials for building, and it is easy for them to think that their aspirations are the same as the tourist wants but this is not actually the fact. In designing development tourism products in a very competitive market, it is critical, but achievable, to strike a balance between these different trends and meet differing aspirations. Uganda already has examples where inappropriate (and often very expensive) developments have actually deteriorated the quality of tourist experience and the value of the attraction, while scarce community level investment monies have been wasted. This is an important role of District Planning control authorities as well as national level support organizations, to provide, guidance, technical capacity and appropriate controls. international demand are positive. The gap is the collection and marketing of the baskets preferably through fair trade channels. 70

72 7.3.2 National level support A number of national level institutions are well placed to support the community level tourism development, these include: Non local products on sale within Kasese district Local craft outlets in poor locations with mediocre presentation Efforts should be made to link local products with existing tourism outlets. 71

73 7.3.3 Strategic Directions for Community Based Tourism Strategic directions for the District Tourism Plan related to community based tourism. The District shall: Maintain a high level of security throughout the district, and work with appropriate agencies to achieve this. Build upon historical and cultural assets, by preserving and show casing them Implement careful planning control to avoid eroding attractions by poor development (see information box) Initiate training for Planning Department members in planning controls Build upon and support existing tourism products Develop attractive, high quality Cultural/Craft-Market outlet within Kasese town Supplement tourism development with export of craft sales and development of organic agriculture Promote development tourism. Many tourists want to know that some of the money they are spending on travel benefit local communities. The districts can support efforts to promote tourism projects that do this. Work with private sector and opinion and community leadership to encourage communities to increase their profitable involvement in tourism in appropriate ways (see table 9) Increase the capacity for tourism promotion and development by a number of actions including: Developing a Tourism Development Taskforce made up of appropriate district officers, community leaders and private sector operators. Develop a Tourism work plan as part of the Annual District Development Plan on a rolling basis. Appoint a District Tourism Officer. This person will have skills in community development and work with communities over community based tourism. Improve accessible information on the project through the district website and other media channels. Encourage communities to increase their involvement in tourism. 72

74 Table 8. outlines ways that disadvantaged groups can participate in tourism (adapted from Kisoro District Tourism Development Plan, 2004 (MTWA, 2004). Table 8: Options for disadvantaged groups to become involved in tourism Group Orphans People with disabilities Women/ widows Youth Options for involvement in tourism Training to be self reliant Mobilise them for craft making and business They can be role models Storytelling, music, dance and drama Literature writing Producing for the tourism industry, selling of herbs etc. Mobilise women groups for quality craft production and opening centres for tourists Storytelling, folklore, music, dance and drama Mobilised to run homestays and home eats for tourists Improve the quality of local beverages Trainers of trainees Operate snack bars, kiosks, cafes and restaurants Formation of youth cultural groups Involvement in craft making Involvement in tour guiding Security operatives in Protected areas/ Tourism sites Selling labour in hotels, camps, restaurants and transport sectors Participation in tourism planning process Start their own business Participation in maintenance of tourist footpaths Production of food and other agricultural products. Detailed feasibility studies should be implemented for both of the sites to predict the commercial viability of the sites. Local visitors (especially children from schools), domestic tourists (including business travellers and VFR) and foreign tourists should be considered within these studies. Initial observation indicate that both the Bwenda and Ecotour Operator could act to both diversify the range of attractions for tourists in the district, and also distribute visitors more widely across Kasese. Workshop participants considered how people of the district, and especially the poorest inhabitants, could directly and indirectly benefit from the development of the Bwenda Lodge and Ecotour Operator. Two groups considered the different attractions separately, with regard to the hypothetical development of a community based tourism enterprise or a joint venture. They were also asked to consider educational and infrastructure requirements that would facilitate improve local living standards while also improving the quality of experience for tourists 73

75 7.3.4 Bwenda Lodge, Katwe Katwe Communities are reportedly already involved in domestic tourism to a significant level (see below educational tours), and the town is developing a tourist information centre. Currently few foreign tourists visit Katwe but the hope is with more facilities the visitor numbers will increase. The remodelling and completion of Bwenda Lodge presents the Katwe communities with a number of potential benefits and opportunities. In addition to labour and sale of produce, the local community could provide significant services in the lodge, including the tour guiding and running the gift shop. Community groups and individuals could also Box 5: Katwe is Torched! When H.M. Stanley arrived at Katwe, on the shore of Lake Edward in July 1889, it was a newly-acquired possession of economic significance for King Kabalega. But the sheer reputation of the white man s fire power persuaded the Banyoro forces to withdraw. Now the very core of the salt working community evidently occupied the three islands offshore. As Stanley tells it, certain of these islanders now approached the village of Katwe cautiously by canoe, dispatched by their Bakonzo Chief Kakuli, to find out what manner of force this was that so alarmed the Banyoro as to scatter them by their mere approach. The canoe men were told, but at once sought further proof of these strangers authority. Burn the town of Katwe, they commanded, so that there shall be nowhere for the Banyoro invaders to re-establish themselves at our lakeside. Stanley duly fired the hutments on or by the shore to the loud cheers of the islanders in their boats. (Stacey, 2003). provide tourist education and entertainment via dance, drama and story telling as well as supplementing the Lodge restaurant with a home meals programme. It was agreed that a community development fund would be established with a proportion of the profits of the lodge. The communities would benefit generally through capacity building and training as well as the sale of produce and the provision of labour. These benefits are: Sharing a percentage of revenue with the Katwe community, It is important that some of the income flow is seen to remain within Katwe Town, and it was recommended that for example 5-10% would be put into community development fund established by the KDLG. Tour guiding communities will take a lead in this service starting by training high quality guides then later with their own vehicles, if the business develops. Attractions of the immediate Katwe area are: Salt history and winning (winning is the local term for salt extraction) Bird watching Boat trips fishing boats Game drives History and culture (H.M. Stanley s writings & Lugard s Fort George). N.B. Little remains on the ground of the history, but for example a dance drama performance could re-enact the meeting of Chief Kakuli and HM Stanley. Likewise interpretive boards could bring Fort George alive. Community run lodge gift shop on a concessionary basis Handicrafts sale Dance and drama, and story telling. Home meals Training and capacity building of community in general Sale of produce; fish, chicken, goats, milk, beef Labour unskilled (jobs) 74

76 Katwe Educational Tours Katwe already receives significant domestic tourism in the form of school trips, and is a key destination for schools. Based on figures provided by workshop participants it is estimated that they receive 12,000 pupils per year, and as a consequence already have significant experience in handling visitors, which are bringing an estimated UG Sh. 3million / yr in just fees. Restaurateurs benefit by providing food and refreshments, crafts persons from sale of crafts. Educational Tour Programme (5 hours) 1. Arrive at Rwenzori Lowlands Tourism Association (RLTA) office 2. Visit Lake Edward lake shore, fishing industry, hippos & crocodiles. 3. Visit Katwe salt lake a. salt winning b. production and sale 4. Birdwatching at Lake Munyanyange (not in the park) Flamingos, Marabou, small waders (shorebirds) (occasionally these are ringed). Nature Uganda (based in Kampala) is an active partner interested in the conservation of Lake Munyanyange. 5. Lunch at a local restaurant in Katwe Town. Local guides will escort Bwenda Lodge Guests on educational tours Katwe Lake Katwe Tourist Information Centre Katwe Tourist Information Centre is being developed by Kanyiginya Women s Group. Construction is almost complete on the 8x5m brick building with an iron sheet roof. The toilet facilities are being finished. The expected uses of the buildings are. 75

77 Sale crafts Provide Tourist information and tour office Groups Office The Tourist Information Office is community owned and donated by Nature Uganda with Finnish funds. Issues / relationships at Bwenda Lodge A number of issue and relationships need to be resolved: 1. UWA concession or land swap 2. KDLG - community relationship 3. Katwe Town Council community relationship 4. KTC-KDLG relationship 5. Lake Katwe Saltwinners Cooperative Society 6. Crocodiles are perceived to be competing for fish with the by the people fishing on Lake Edward. 7. Grazing and cultivation etc. with tourism. Recommendations: living fences improved in Katwe to form livestock barrier. This is possible with proper management Ecotour Operator The group work on the community inputs into the Ecotour Operator discussed the following elements. The ecotour operator mission statement, community, private sector partners, potential products and necessary support from government and NGO s. Mission The following elements were identified as key mission elements for the ecotour operation. Promote wise natural resource use management Enhance household income Enhance networking among community tourism initiatives Build/enhance capacity of community tourism groups Develop a common marketing strategy Collaborate with other stakeholders Promote better understanding of eco tourism Be Profitable Partnership Critically the Ecotour Operator would be a partnership between communities and a private sector company. Community groups were identified with the potential to partner with the operator. 76

78 Table 9: Potential Ecotour Community Partners Community Tourism Group Location Activities Bakonzo Cultural Association Kisinga Ecotourism Group Rwenzori Lowlands Tourism Association Kanyingina Womens Group Rwenzururu Veterans Association Ihandiro S/C Kisinga Martyrs Tomb Katwe-Kitahiro Town Katwe-Kitahiro Town Kasese Town Wide programme including dance, drama, forest conservation, ecotourism, community campsite Handicrafts, dance and drama Guiding and interpretation (see Bwenda lodge below) Drama, Dance and handicrafts Maintenance of Palace and Royal Regalia, Tour guiding Banyabindi Cultural Group Karusandara Ritual performance, dance and drama Ceres Institute of Organic Farming Mihunga Production of organic foods Ruboni Community Ibanda Campsite, Bandas, Crafts, Dancing, Community trails, Guides, Birdwatching, Reforestation Ruwenzori Mountain Services: Ibanda Neat Safaris Rukooki Ecotourism guiding UWA concession to provide mountaineering services for the Mountains. Community Partner: The method of selection of the community partner(s) was discussed. Three potential models were identified. Model 1. Form an association of all the groups, which itself becomes the community partner in the ecotour operation. Model 2 Form different associations for different activities e.g. dance/culture, craftwork, guiding. Model 3: A small number of key groups (probably 1-3) form the partnership with the private sector operator, but market the wider groups as appropriate. A wider association forms around these groups if appropriate. It was felt that Model 2 was impractical as individual groups carry out several different activities. Model 1 was likely to be unwieldy and difficult for a private company to effectively partner with. Model three would appear the most viable option. Criteria for selection of the community group could include enthusiasm, track record, assets, length of operation, capacity, etc. Private sector partner: A number of criteria for the private sector partner were identified. A company registered to operate in Uganda Wide experience of eco tourism in Uganda and possibly elsewhere Effective international marketing Has code of conduct in place environment and social Willingness and track record of partnering with community and build capacity 77

79 Financially sound and track record of profitability. It is essential that the Ecotour Operator is profitable. It is only through profitability that the operation will succeed in spreading the benefits of tourism to different sectors of the community, and through enhancing the reputation of the operation attract more visitors. A potential private sector partner will look very carefully at the profit sharing formulae. Likewise the community partner(s) will have to demonstrate the ability to develop a high quality consistent product. Products A number of products were identified and possible tours developed. There is a wide range of options for ecotours. Rwenzururu Kingdom Bakonzo Culture Mountains, forest and wildlife Sustainable agriculture, organic farming and mountain management Lakes, fishing, birdwatching, and lake wildlife People and wildlife Bwenda Lodge Guests will have the opportunity to watch wildlife on ecotours Sample Ecotours Tour 1 Rwenzururu Kingdom and Bakonzo Culture This could be a 1-2 day tour with a possible extension to 4-5 days if a second Rwenzori Mountains circuit was opened up at the southern end. This tour starts in Kasese Town with a visit to the Royal Palace, 78