Rukungiri District Local Government

RUKUNGIRI DISTRICT LOCAL GOVERNMENT

The Switzerland of Uganda

Our Vision

A transformed and prosperous Rukungiri District with improved quality of life for all citizens

Our Mission

To deliver quality services through effective leadership, accountability, and sustainable development programs that improve the well-being of our people

Our Motto

The Switzerland of Uganda - Striving for Excellence

Our Core Values

Guiding principles that define our work and interactions

Transparency

We operate with openness and honesty in all our dealings with citizens

Accountability

We take responsibility for our actions and decisions, ensuring efficient use of resources

Innovation

We embrace new ideas and technologies to improve service delivery

Integrity

We uphold the highest ethical standards in all our endeavors

District Overview

Rukungiri District is located in Western Uganda, bordered by Kanungu District to the north, Kabale District to the east, Kisoro District to the south, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west. The district covers an area of 1,190.9 square kilometers, with a population of over 380,000 people.

The district is famously known as "The Switzerland of Uganda" due to its beautiful rolling hills, favorable climate, and hardworking people. Rukungiri was established as a district in 1974 and has since grown to become one of Uganda's most progressive local governments.

District Overview

Geography & Location

Rukungiri District lies between latitudes 0° 30' S and 1° 00' S and longitudes 29° 45' E and 30° 30' E. The district features a varied topography characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and plains. The altitude ranges from 1,200 to 2,300 meters above sea level.

The district experiences two rainy seasons (March-May and September-November) and two dry seasons (December-February and June-August), with average annual rainfall of 1,000-1,200mm.

Demographics

According to the 2024 national census, Rukungiri District has a population of 386,500 people, comprising 182,000 males and 204,500 females. The population is predominantly rural, with an annual growth rate of 3.2%.

The main ethnic groups are the Bakiga (80%), Banyarwanda (12%), and other groups (8%). The primary languages spoken are Rukiga, Runyankore, and English.

Economy

The economy of Rukungiri District is predominantly agricultural, with over 80% of the population engaged in farming. Major crops include bananas, coffee, tea, maize, beans, and Irish potatoes. The district is also known for dairy farming and fishing in Lake Edward.

Other economic activities include trade, tourism, and small-scale manufacturing. The district is home to several tourist attractions including Lake Edward, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and various cultural sites.

Rukungiri at a Glance

Key statistics about our district

380,000+

Population Served

180+

Educational Institutions

50+

Health Facilities

1,190.9km+

Road Network

14

Sub-Counties

320+

Villages

15+

Tourism Attractions

800+

Safe Water Sources

Our History

Journey of Rukungiri District through the years

1974

District Established

Rukungiri was officially established as a district under the Uganda government administration.

1989

Local Government Reform

The district underwent significant reforms under the Resistance Councils and Committees system.

1997

Decentralization

Implementation of the Local Government Act, giving more autonomy to district administrations.

2010

Infrastructure Development

Major infrastructure projects launched, including road rehabilitation and health center construction.

2020

Digital Transformation

Launch of digital services and e-government initiatives to improve service delivery.

2024

New Era

Continued focus on economic development, tourism promotion, and improved service delivery.

2026

Digital Revolution

Launch of the new official district website with enhanced citizen services and transparency tools.

District Leadership

Meet the team serving Rukungiri District

Hon. Charles Andrewson Kateebire

Hon. Charles Andrewson Kateebire

LC5 Chairman

The political head of Rukungiri District, responsible for providing strategic leadership and overseeing…

Mr. [Name]

Mr. [Name]

Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

The accounting officer and head of the district administration, responsible for implementing council…

Hon. [Name]

Hon. [Name]

District Speaker

Presides over district council meetings and ensures proper legislative procedures are followed.