Equator Point Centre along the Nyahururu-Nyeri Road. Photo/Handout
By Newsflash Reporter
Equator Point along the Nyahururu-Nyeri Road in Ndaragwa Sub-County is set to reap the benefits of high-level discussions between Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha and Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano.
According to Nyandarua County Executive Committee Member for Trade, Industrialization, Cooperative Development, and Partnership, Mr John Muiru, national tourism social amenities will be established at Equator Point in the financial year 2025/2036, with a notable development at Gwa Kung’u market.
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Planned tourism amenities
Speaking on Monday while hosting a high-level delegation from the State Departments of Tourism and Public Works in Kaimbaga Ward, Ol’Kalou Sub-County, Muiru revealed that the proposed amenities will include essential infrastructure such as:
- Visitor information centers
- Public rest areas
- Cultural exhibition spaces
- Eco-friendly facilities to enhance the tourism experience
Muiru added that Governor Badilisha will continue partnering with the National Government in planning, developing, and maintaining these facilities to promote sustainable tourism across the county.
Monument at Gwa Kung’u Equatorial Line
The county is also exploring the potential for developing a monument at the Gwa Kung’u Equatorial Line, featuring an in-built coffee shop, curio shops, and other amenities.
These facilities will be operated by Nyandarua’s women, youth, and persons with disabilities to empower local communities economically.
Nyandarua’s tourism potential
Nyandarua County, which is home to over 70% of the Aberdare National Park and Forest Reserve, boasts several unique tourist attractions, including:
- Lake Ol’Bollosat – Kenya’s only highland lake
- Happy Valley Homes – A hub for cultural tourism
- Agri-tourism and sports tourism
- The Equatorial Line attractions
To fully harness this tourism potential, the county is implementing a tourism legal and policy framework to guide the mapping, profiling, promotion, product diversification, and investment opportunities in the sector.
Strategic tourist initiatives
The Governor’s efforts to boost tourism also include:
- Gazettement of Lake Ol’Bollosat as a National Reserve under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act
- A robust tourism marketing campaign in partnership with other stakeholders
- Establishing targeted recreational centers across the county
Preserving Nyandarua’s historical legacy
As part of efforts to preserve the county’s rich history, the Governor is rekindling the narrative behind Mau Mau caves to highlight Nyandarua’s role in Kenya’s fight for independence.
Read more: How communities are protecting sacred environmental resources
Through this initiative, the county aims to educate children about Kenya’s history, celebrate its heritage, and preserve local culture.
Officials in attendance
Present at the event was the Chief Officer for Tourism, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, Ms. Njeri Njoroge.
