Nebbi Leaders Propose Nduru Hill Tourism Development

Leaders in Nebbi Municipality have put forward a plan to develop Nduru Hill into a prominent tourist attraction. Deputy Mayor Howard Musa announced that the council has formally included the hill in its infrastructure priority plan, which has been submitted to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.

“Nduru Hill is our identity. Developing it will attract tourists, create jobs for our youth and protect our cultural heritage,” stated Musa. The proposed development includes improving access roads, installing solar lighting, constructing perimeter fences, building public restrooms, and establishing a cultural center complete with a craft market for local artisans.

This proposal emerged during a meeting between municipal council leaders and the Nduru Hill Resource Development Association. The initiative coincides with Nebbi Municipality’s preparation to implement a new bus and taxi park, funded by the World Bank through the Uganda Cities and Municipalities Infrastructure Development project.

Ibrahim Harunah, the Board Chairman of the Nduru Hill Resource Development Association, highlighted current issues such as a lack of amenities and land encroachment, urging the council to address these challenges to facilitate the tourism project. Tourism Officer Denis Okello noted the hill’s historical significance, named after King Nduru, an ancestor of three major clans, emphasizing their involvement in the development plans.

Okello further envisioned the developed Nduru Hill as a cultural training center, featuring a conference hall, restaurant, accommodation, festival grounds, an arts and craft shop, and a museum. Local resident Albert Olum expressed support, believing the development and fencing of the four-acre site would enhance security and reduce negative activities.

Historically, Nduru Hill served as an administrative hub and a vantage point for monitoring the Alur people returning from enslavement in the DR Congo. The site holds cultural importance, with unique chair-shaped stones used by traditional chiefs. In 2023, a dispute arose between religious and cultural leaders concerning a cross erected by the Nebbi Catholic Diocese atop the hill, which some felt interfered with traditional rituals and leisure activities.

This development effort seeks to harness Nduru Hill’s potential as a cultural and tourism asset for Nebbi Municipality.

Source: https://www.monitor.ug/uganda/news/national/nebbi-leaders-seek-to-turn-nduru-hill-into-tourism-site-5590356