Kenyan scientists captivated by hike up Soroti Rock

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When many people think of Soroti city, they picture a fast-growing urban centre in eastern Uganda, home to the Iteso community and renowned for its traditional millet brew, ajon, enjoyed by a large section of the population.

Yet beyond the bustling streets and rich cultural heritage lies one of the city's most overlooked treasures, the iconic Soroti Rock, locally known as Opiyai Rock.

Towering at the heart of the city, the massive granite outcrop offers visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of Soroti and its surrounding landscapes. Despite its prominence, many residents and visitors remain unaware that the rock is open for hiking, making it one of the city's hidden tourism gems.

"I didn't know people were allowed to climb it because I often see security personnel around the rock," said Sarah Amulen, a resident of Soroti. "I have always admired it, but I thought access was restricted."

The lack of public awareness has limited the site's tourism potential, even though it presents an opportunity for the city to attract visitors and generate revenue.

The deputy city clerk, Badru Ochengel, acknowledged that more effort is needed to promote the attraction.

"It is true there is little awareness about the tourism opportunities in our city, yet they can bring additional resources and revenue," Ochengel said.

 

City Environment Officer Francis Ediau (behind) with Katumo and Dr Chege

He revealed that the city charges a fee of sh10,000 per person to hike the rock, although very few people know about the arrangement.

Last week, a group of Kenyan scientists visiting Soroti discovered the attraction firsthand and left deeply impressed by the experience.

Led by Dr Christine Chege, a senior scientist with Alliance Bioversity International, the delegation had come to Uganda for discussions on innovative ways of turning waste into wealth. During their stay, they were treated to an evening hike up Soroti Rock.

What began as a casual nature walk soon transformed into a challenging climb requiring determination, stamina and sure footing. For the visitors, however, the reward at the summit was worth every step.

"This is both interesting and exciting," Dr Chege said after reaching the peak. "I have had a fitness session that would have cost me a lot of money in a gym."

For the Kenyan scientists, the hike was more than physical exercise. It was an opportunity to connect with nature, unwind and appreciate the beauty of eastern Uganda.

Winifred Katumo, director for food systems and sector programmes at Nairobi City County, described the experience as unforgettable.

"I want to bring my family here for a holiday," Katumo said while admiring the sweeping views below. "Being here feels like being on an aeroplane. It is a beautiful experience, and I would love my family to enjoy it too."

 

Experienced hikers often emphasise the importance of proper footwear, adequate drinking water and weather-appropriate clothing. The visiting team learned this lesson the hard way. Some attempted the climb in open shoes, while others were dressed in office attire, making the ascent more demanding than expected.

Their host, Prof. James Peter Egonyu, an associate professor of agricultural entomology at Busitema University and leader of the project that brought the scientists to Soroti, said he intentionally included the hike in the visitors' itinerary to expose them to the beauty of the Teso sub-region.

"Teso is rich in natural attractions that we can showcase to our visitors, including the famous Nyero Rock Paintings," Prof. Egonyu said. "Unfortunately, we do not always take advantage of these opportunities."

By the end of the visit, the ten-member Kenyan delegation was leaving Uganda with glowing memories of Soroti Rock and the Teso landscape.

Their experience serves as a reminder that some of Uganda's most remarkable attractions are not always found in glossy travel brochures. Sometimes, they are hidden in plain sight, waiting for more people to discover them.

For Soroti city, the challenge now is to tell that story to the world.