By: Boy Fidel Leon
Uganda’s latest digital leap is planting roots deep enough to withstand the winds of change. By laying strong foundations in connectivity, the nation is nurturing the future of tourism, sports, and community development.
This vision came to life just days before the internationally recognised Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon, when the Government of Uganda introduced free public Wi-Fi at the Kikorongo Equator Monument as a symbolic landmark along the Kasese–Fort Portal Road near Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The launch, led by the National Information Technology Authority Uganda (NITA-U) in partnership with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) and Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), was designed to answer a central question: why connect a tourist site with free internet now?
The primary reason lies in Uganda’s ambition to enhance the visitor experience and promote tourism in a digital-first era. UTB Chief Executive Officer, Juliana Kaggwa, explained that modern travellers expect seamless digital access:
Tourism today is digital-first. This initiative enhances the visitor journey and positions Uganda as a connected destination where experiences can be shared globally in real time.
By equipping the Kikorongo Equator Monument and surrounding sites with Wi-Fi, the government hopes to transform one of the country’s iconic stopovers into a more interactive and globally visible attraction.
Another driver was the 4th edition of the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon, which draws thousands of runners and tourists from across the globe. Connectivity ensures live-streaming, instant updates, and global coverage. Representing NITA-U’s Executive Director, Richard Obita, Director of Technical Services, called the move a step toward smart tourism:
This launch marks our first of many steps toward smart tourism, where connectivity meets culture, sports, and exploration. We are proud to support the tourism sector and the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon with infrastructure that enables live-streaming, real-time updates, and a richer experience for runners and spectators alike.
The initiative is also about equity, giving rural communities access to opportunities often limited to urban areas. State Minister for National Guidance, Godfrey Baluku Kabbyanga, emphasised this at the launch:
“By bringing free internet to Kikorongo, we bridge the digital divide while enhancing tourism, sports, and economic opportunities for the local community.”
Wi-Fi hotspots have been established not only at the Kikorongo Equator but also along Kasese Main Street and key marathon routes including Stanley, Margherita, and Rwenzori Roads, ensuring both residents and visitors benefit.
UWA sees digital connectivity as an additional tool for conservation awareness. Chief Warden of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Eric Morris Enyel, highlighted the value of real-time engagement:
Connectivity adds a new layer to conservation tourism. Real-time sharing and learning deepen our appreciation for our natural heritage.
This integration of technology with conservation is expected to encourage responsible tourism while promoting Uganda’s biodiversity on the global stage.
The government’s decision to launch free Wi-Fi at the Equator Monument ahead of the Rwenzori Marathon goes beyond convenience. It is a deliberate strategy to position Uganda as a digitally connected tourism hub, boost the global visibility of the marathon, and give local communities meaningful access to digital tools.
At the same time, it links technology with conservation, showing how innovation can serve both people and the environment. By laying these digital roots, Uganda is signalling that its tourism and communities are ready to adapt, grow, and thrive in the digital age.