Uganda recently elected a striking stainless-steel Equator monument in the western Kasese district.
Designed by the visionary designer Eric Prince India, this contemporary structure, which replaces an outdated colonial-era marker removed in 2019, seamlessly blends with the verdant landscape of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The monument, featuring a globe intersected by the Equator line, includes cultural exhibitions, a coffee shop, and craft stalls, offering tourists a rich taste of local art and flavors.
Economic Impact
The project has generated considerable excitement and pride among the local community. Tourism officials estimate that this landmark will increase visitor numbers by 25% over the next two years, significantly driving economic growth. The initiative is expected to generate approximately $2 million in annual revenue from tourism activities. Future plans include enhancing the site with ample parking and a ranger-managed restaurant, further enriching the visitor experience and ensuring orderly management of the park.
Community Response
Local entrepreneurs in Kasese are optimistic about the surge in visitors and the commercial opportunities it will bring. They view the monument not only as a tourist attraction but also as a symbol of modernization and competitive tourism, comparable to the grand monuments found in countries like Italy, renowned for their historical statues and landmarks.
Comparative Significance
The new Kasese monument joins another prominent Equator crossing in Uganda, located at Kayabwe Point on the Kampala-Masaka Highway. Kayabwe Point, with its marked Equator line and cluster of craft shops and cafes, has long been a favorite stop for tourists journeying between Kampala and western Uganda. Similarly, the main Equator site offers visitors the unique experience of standing in both hemispheres at once, complemented by informative displays and souvenir shops that enhance the educational and cultural value of the visit.
The Kasese monument is set to become a cornerstone of Uganda’s tourism strategy, drawing international visitors eager to witness the point where the northern and southern hemispheres meet.
About Memoir Uganda – Showcasing Uganda
We are a comprehensive tourism and travel media company unleashing information about Uganda. We offer, among others, an all-inclusive guide on everything Uganda such as itineraries, consular information, timely and updated tour and travel news and general information about visiting and living in Uganda.
To us, Uganda is more than a tour destination. It is our homeland. Our knowledge about Uganda is ocean deep and we love showing the country’s splendid beauty to the world. We aim at sharing and showcasing Uganda to the tiniest bit, better than anyone else. We also aim at conserving our home land through our un wavered efforts towards climate change awareness.
Our Memoir Magazine showcases Uganda’s diverse potential in detail that is often left out and unknown. You ought never to miss a copy. We robustly believe that traveling should make the world a better place for everyone.
