Kasese district is abuzz with activity as the 3rd edition of the Rwenzori Theluji Festival returns.
Renowned for its focus on sustainable tourism, cultural heritage, and environmental conservation within the Rwenzori region, the festival promises an even bigger and better experience this year.
Scheduled for the first weekend of September, the 2024 edition will take place from September 5 to 8 at Rwenzori Square in Kasese Municipality.
This festival serves as a precursor to Uganda’s World Tourism Day celebrations, which will also be held in Kasese District this year.
Speaking at a press conference in Kampala, Benson Baritazare Kule, Chairperson of the Board of Directors for the Kasese Tourism Investors Forum, highlighted the festival’s role in uniting the diverse tribes and cultures that have coexisted harmoniously in the Rwenzori region for generations.
He noted that this unity is beautifully showcased through the Cultural Gala component of the festival.
“We have partnered with the Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu, and His Majesty Omusinga Charles Wesley Irema-Ngoma will be the Guest of Honor at the festival’s Cultural Gala,” Benson said.
“This event brings together the rich traditions and diverse cultures of the Rwenzori region, showcasing our collective identity through food, dances, coffee shows, cow-milk experiences, canoe rides, bicycle cycling, music, and crafts. This year, we are excited to introduce new elements that deepen cultural exchange, fostering unity and mutual respect among our communities.”
Baritazare also emphasized the festival’s commitment to environmental conservation, particularly through the “My Tree, My Theluji” tree planting campaign.
“Through reforestation and environmental cleaning initiatives, we are restoring the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Rwenzori Mountains, ensuring they are preserved for future generations,” he said.
Adding, “In partnership with the National Forestry Authority and Roofings, we aim to plant 50,000 seedlings this year, with a long-term goal of planting six million trees across the region over the next five years.”
On the business side, John Henry Baguma, Secretary General of the Kasese Investment Forum (KIF), noted that the festival is also a catalyst for economic development.
“By connecting local entrepreneurs with broader market opportunities, we are fostering a thriving tourism industry that benefits local communities and contributes to the regional economy. Our business development initiatives, particularly through the Rwenzori Business Summit, are designed to empower small and medium enterprises, promoting sustainable livelihoods across the tourism value chain,” Baguma said.
Mboijana James, Tourism Development Officer at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, highlighted that the festival is part of the broader Tourism Month celebrations.
He expressed optimism that such initiatives will help increase tourist numbers in the Rwenzori region, further promoting its rich cultural and natural heritage.