Dr Mukiza Urges Urgent Road Upgrade to Unlock Kisoro’s Tourism Potential

Kisoro — The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) has released new insights from the National Population and Housing Census 2024 Final Report, revealing significant improvements in digital access, health, and energy use in Kisoro District.

The update was delivered on Wednesday by Dr Chris N. Mukiza, the UBOS Executive Director and Chief Statistician, as he joined top government officials in welcoming President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to launch his campaign rallies in the Kigezi Sub-region.

Speaking to the media shortly after the President’s arrival, Dr Mukiza said the latest census figures paint a picture of a district that is steadily modernising and making social gains.

“Kisoro District now has a population of 433,662 persons,” he said. “Of these, 85,092 people aged 10 years and above own mobile phones, and 8,840 individuals in the same age bracket use the Internet. This is a clear indication of the district’s growing digital access and readiness for the modern economy.”

UBOS data also shows improvements in malaria prevention, with households increasingly adopting protective measures. “The Census revealed that 73,427 households own at least one mosquito net, which points to strengthened malaria prevention efforts across Kisoro,” Dr Mukiza noted.

Progress in Water, Sanitation and Clean Energy

On the state of public health and household welfare, UBOS highlighted significant advancements: 62,142 households now have access to improved water sources, and 27,513 households have access to improved sanitation facilities.

“These numbers reflect steady progress in hygiene, health and general well-being,” Dr Mukiza said.

Energy access continues to evolve as households adopt more reliable and sustainable options. According to the Census, 27,264 households use grid electricity for lighting, and 18,357 households rely on solar power.

“This shift shows the district’s increasing uptake of sustainable, alternative energy solutions,” he added.

Call for Urgent Investment in Roads

Despite the positive trends, Dr Mukiza stressed the need for accelerated investment in Kisoro’s transport network.

“While the statistics show commendable progress across multiple sectors, there is an urgent need to improve the district’s road infrastructure,” he said. “Better roads are vital for effective service delivery, economic activity and access to essential public services.”

He emphasised that upgrading road networks is also critical to unlock Kisoro’s unique tourism potential fully. “With its mountain gorillas, crater lakes and exceptional natural attractions, Kisoro can become an even stronger tourism magnet,” he explained. “Improved transport infrastructure would significantly boost tourism and drive both local and national economic growth.”

The President’s launch of campaign activities in Kigezi drew wide attention, with UBOS using the occasion to underscore the role of accurate data in shaping development priorities and informing government investment decisions.