Authorities in Jinja have issued a final directive ordering all occupants at the iconic Source of the Nile to vacate the area immediately, paving the way for a major redevelopment project aimed at transforming the site into a world-class tourist destination.
In a formal communication dated April 1, 2026, the Jinja City Council, through City Town Clerk Godfrey B. Kisekka, described the notice as a “final reminder” following a series of prior engagements and correspondences with stakeholders operating within the area.
The letter references earlier communications and consultative meetings in which affected parties had been advised to relocate voluntarily to allow for planned upgrades at the historic site, widely regarded as one of Uganda’s most significant tourism landmarks.
City authorities also cited a directive from the Inspectorate of Government (IGG), issued on September 18, 2025, which lifted a previous order that had temporarily halted the eviction of operators, including Rippon Falls Leisure Resort Limited and other stakeholders.
The earlier directive, dated August 19, 2025, had stalled redevelopment efforts pending further review.
According to the council, procurement processes for the next phase of works at the Source of the Nile development project are now in their final stages, signaling imminent commencement of construction activities.
“The purpose of this communication is therefore to direct you to vacate from Source of the Nile with immediate effect to pave way for the second phase of development,” the letter states.
The redevelopment initiative is part of broader government efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure, improve visitor experience, and position the Source of the Nile as a competitive global attraction.
Copies of the notice were shared with key government and city officials, including the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the Resident City Commissioner, and city political and technical leaders in Jinja.
A number of traders who operate craft shops and restaurants have been working at the site for years, forming a key part of the area’s tourism ecosystem.
The directive is expected to trigger a fresh wave of compliance discussions and possible tensions with affected businesses and operators, some of whom have previously expressed concerns over relocation timelines and compensation arrangements.
The Source of the Nile remains one of Uganda’s most visited tourist sites, attracting both domestic and international travellers, and the planned redevelopment is anticipated to significantly reshape its operational and commercial landscape.
