With only eight days remaining until the Kagulu Rock Climbing Challenge, preparations are in full swing. On Friday, the Busoga North Police assured the public that there will be no security threats during the event.
Michael Kasadah, the Busoga North Police spokesperson, made this announcement during a press conference held at Kagulu Rock Hill in Buyende District. He was joined by the Minister for Busoga Tourism and Heritage, Owek Hellen Namutamba Olga.
Kasadah stated that security forces will begin setting up camp at Kagulu on August 15, 2024, and that patrols will be conducted in nearby areas. He warned that anyone attempting to disrupt the event will be arrested.
Owek Hellen Namutamba Olga confirmed that all preparations are on track. The event will include a kickboxing competition on August 15, the Miss Tourism Busoga competition on August 16, and the main Rock Climbing Challenge on August 17, led by His Majesty the Kyabazinga of Busoga, HRH William Gabula Nadiope.
Hellen urged the people of Busoga to participate in the event to learn about the history of Kagulu Rock, which is expected to attract around 40,000 attendees due to effective mobilization efforts. She also extended her gratitude to the President for his significant support in the campaign.
Kagulu Rock, standing at 3,600 feet above sea level, is historically significant as the origin of the Busoga people, with the first Musoga, Namutukula, settling there after migrating from Bunyoro. The rock holds cultural importance, as it is the site where key cultural activities of the Kyabazinga are performed before he is crowned.
Local residents, such as Mugweri Bernard and Andrew Waiswa, highlighted the positive impact of Kagulu Rock on their community, noting that the influx of tourists from around the world has provided them with a means of livelihood.
In conclusion, event partners like Kanyela Farm and City Paints expressed their gratitude to Owekitibwa Hellen for involving them in the event.
They pledged their support for all activities related to the Kagulu Rock Climbing Challenge, which will take place from August 15 to 17, with His Majesty William Wilberforce IV serving as the chief climber.
By
Kenneth Wamatoyi
