Tourism activities into Mount Kenya through the Chogoria route are set to be revamped after Maara MP Kareke Mbiuki through the support of the Ministry of Tourism initiated plans to revitalize it.
On Monday, the MP held a multi-stakeholder meeting that was meant to breathe new life into one of Kenya’s most scenic yet underutilized tourism gems.
This came following a meeting following the approval of funding by the Tourism Promotion Fund to promote sustainable tourism and support livelihoods on the Mt. Kenya – Chogoria route.
Speaking during the meeting, MP Mbiuki said the ambitious project aims to transform the Chogoria route towards Mount Kenya into a world-class eco-tourism destination while uplifting local communities and preserving the environment.
“We have today come together as key government agencies, county officials, local businesses, and community leaders to chat our way forward towards reclaiming our lost glory.This initiative is a clear indication of a new era of coordinated efforts to harness the vast untapped potential of this spectacular region,” said Mbiuki.
He said the initiative incorporates several transformative projects designed to enhance access, safety, and visitor experiences.
They include modernization of entry gates and expansion of network coverage aimed at improving accessibility and communication for visitors and service providers.
The other project is the refurbishment of Kinondoni Airstrip which is set to reduce travel time for tourists, connecting them directly to the foothills of Mount Kenya.
“A series of new hiking trails including routes from Kinondoni to Nithi Falls and the caves, from Lake Ellis to Lake Alice and Rutundu, and a riverine trail from Kinondoni to Mutonga will open up the previously inaccessible terrain,” said Mbiuki.
For nature lovers and adventure seekers, the introduction of fly-fishing trails and nature walks along the river Nithi will offer sustainable encounters with the mountain’s clean ecosystems.
There is also a plan for the construction of visitor shelters at lake Ellis to provide safe rest points for hikers, while the digital mapping and global upload of these trails will position the route firmly on the world map of hiking and cycling destinations.
Mbiuki noted that over the next week, the state department of public works will conduct surveys and prepare reports, paving the way for the tendering process.
“This initiative is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and improve livelihoods in the region,” said Mbiuki.
Stakeholders are optimistic about the potential impact and are working together to ensure the successful implementation of the projects.
By Dickson Mwiti
