If you are a resident of Nakuru County and you have never visited ‘Mlima Ugali’ in Barut, Nakuru West Sub county, then you are missing a lot.
Though not clear how the Hill got christened ‘Mlima Ugali’, a word has it in the streets that the shape of the hill from a distance resembles lump of ugali and that is how locals nicknamed the hill ‘Mlima Ugali’.
However, the real name of the hill is Kimenderit Hill among the Kalenjin Community- whom majority occupy the area around the Hill and the dusty Barut Centre that is some 4 Kilometres from the Hill.
But did you know, the Hill serves the community as a a holy hill?
Well, history has it that for generations, the Kalenjin Community ancestors have continued to meet on the hill, not for picnic but to pray to Almighty God for divine intervention.
According to one of the Kalenjin elders Mr. Joseph Langat, the Hill is sacred.
Sentiments echoed by Felix Tash and James Yegon who are residents of Barut.
“It is at the top of the Hill that Kalenjin ancestors would offer special prayers and for special occasions,” states elder Langat.
Infact, Langat revealed that during the ICC cases against William Ruto when he was Deputy President, prayers were conducted at the Hill leading to the drop of the cases.
Meanwhile, County Government of Nakuru Department of Tourism took over the management of the facility.
David Mwangi from Nakuru County Tourism Association says the site is now a recreational site.
Already the county Government of Nakuru has fenced off the place and constructed a Multipurpose Hall meant to serve those who visit the area either as religious groups or families on picnics.
According to Mwangi, plans are on the way to improve the site as a recreational centre in Nakuru County.
For now, individuals or groups visiting the site are not charged.
However, before visiting, a communication should be made prior with information about the visit to gatekeeper at the site.
Many have visited the hill for a hiking activities, party making and just have time free from the hustles of Nakuru City.
Atop the Hill, one is able to have a panoramic views of Nakuru City among them the Lake Nakuru National park and Menengai Crater.
Indeed, this is one of the Tourists’ attraction sites in Nakuru that you would not want to miss visiting.
So next time you are in Nakuru, make some time to visit ‘Mlima Ugali’ and enjoy the view.
And with Nakuru County positioning herself as The Hub of Tourism and Investment, then such sites will not only add value but will ensure local revenue which in turn boost the economy of the county.
According to Trade, Tourism and Co-operatives CECM Stephen Kuria, the County is endowed with several Tourists’ attraction sites which should be embraced by both local and international tourists.
He noted that his Ministry shall continue to work with all partners in ensuring that the all the available opportunities in Tourism sector are tapped into.
“Nakuru is such a blessed County and we look forward to revamping more the tourism sector so that we can serve both local and international tourism needs,” he stated at a past function.
