By Mike Rwothomio

Hundreds of international cyclists are expected to participate in the maiden Race the Nile, an extreme adventure cycling challenge designed to showcase the West Nile sub-region’s untapped tourism potential, cultural heritage, and investment opportunities.

Ms. Lillian Ajarova, Senior Presidential Advisor on Tourism and creator of the Race the Nile Cycling Event, confirmed the strong global interest in the event, which targets adventure-seeking cyclists drawn to rural, difficult, and challenging endurance experiences.

Speaking at Alur Kingdom Palace in Kal Atyak Winam  Zombo District during a three-day route assessment tour last week,  Ms. Ajarova emphasized that the event will leverage West Nile’s limited infrastructure to deliver an authentic and challenging experience while spotlighting the destination through local, national, and international media coverage.

The assessment tour, which took place from Monday to Wednesday, 8–10 June 2026, covered key routes across the sub-region: Arua–Koboko–Yumbe–Moyo; Adjumani–Obongi–Madi-Okollo–Pakwach; and Nebbi–Zombo. 

The team identified various tourism assets along the routes that will be visited including cultural sites, scenic coffee farms offering experiential tours, the iconic Biku Chapel,  the smallest church in Uganda  and other historical attractions.

The Senior Presidential Advisor on Tourism and Event Creator of The Race The Nile Cycling Event Ms Lillian Ajarova (centre) briefing the Alur Kingdom Prime Minister (Jadipu) Prince Lawrence Opar Angala (right) in Kaal Atyak Palace about the race and the many opportunities it will bring to West Nile.

Ms. Ajarova briefed the Prime Minister (Jadipu) of Alur Kingdom, Prince Lawrence Opar Angala, at the Alur Kingdom Palace in Kaal Atyak, Atyak Sub-county, Zombo District, on the upcoming event scheduled for 23–27 November 2026.

“We came together and said how we can do something for West Nile,” Ajarova stated. “In a small way, we can start something that can spark more interest and get more people interested in West Nile.”

The initiative aims to position West Nile as a premier adventure tourism destination, drawing participants from across Africa, Europe, and other parts of the world.

Organisers believe the event will generate significant visibility for the region’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and economic potential in tourism, trade, and agriculture.

In terms of investment promotion, Ms. Ajarova revealed that European partners are exploring collaboration opportunities with coffee producers from Okoro in Zombo District, highlighting the event’s role in product marketing and destination branding.

Mr. Isaac Mulindwa Jr, Events Manager of WUZA Ltd Kampala, described the first edition as a pilot project that will serve as a showcase for the sub-region.

“We hope that as the years progress, more attention will come to West Nile through media and visitors,” he said, noting expected growth in tourism, investment, and trade.

The delegation, which included Mr. Adriko Michael of the West Nile Cycling Club, was warmly received by Jadipu Prince Lawrence Opar Angala on behalf of His Majesty Ubimu Philip Rauni Olarker III, the Alur King. 

The Prime Minister commended the initiative for that will  shine a global spotlight on West Nile’s tourism, trade, agricultural, mining, and cultural potential.

“As Alur Kingdom, we want to be at the forefront,” Jadipu assured the team. “We shall package our kingdom in such a way that participants will be able to see the best of Alur Kingdom.” 

He noted that the November timing would allow adequate preparation to showcase the kingdom’s rich heritage.

West Nile blends stunning natural scenery, rich wildlife, and deep cultural heritage. Standout sites include:

Natural Wonders  Miriadua Falls (Arua/Maracha): 
Scenic waterfalls along the Arua-Koboko road, ideal for nature lovers.  

Barifa Forest (Arua): Serene eucalyptus forest perfect for nature walks and panoramic views.  

Mountain Wati (Terego): Highest point in West Nile, offering rewarding hikes and ancestral significance.

Ajai Wildlife Reserve (Madi Okollo): Prime spot for boat safaris, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing along the White Nile.

 Alur Kingdom Palace (Zombo) and other cultural site are Symbols  of traditional governance and cultural pride.  

Salia Musala (Moyo): Tripoint where Uganda, South Sudan, and DRC converge.  

Biku Chapel (Nebbi): The smallest church in Uganda, a unique hilltop landmark.  

Wanglei (Pakwach): Historic site marking the separation of Luo brothers Nyipiir and Labongo.

According to Ms. Ajarova,  Race the Nile is poised to establish West Nile as an emerging adventure tourism destination on the global map.