President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commended businesswoman Hajjat Sarah Kiyimba for her contribution to Uganda's private sector as he officially opened the renovated Mount Elgon Hotel in Mbale City. The hotel, a historic landmark in Mbale, has undergone extensive restoration works and now offers modern facilities for guests and conference users. Museveni praised Kiyimba while touring the hotel, where he was hosted by the Brovad Hotels proprietor.
The reopening of Mount Elgon Hotel marks a new chapter for one of Mbale's historic landmarks. The restoration has preserved key elements of the building's architectural heritage while introducing modern facilities. Museveni said the renovation had successfully combined the preservation of the hotel's historical character with the demands of modern hospitality. He noted that hospitality is an important part of Uganda's service sector because it creates jobs, supports other businesses and contributes to economic growth.
The President recognised Kiyimba's commitment to growing the Brovad Group and expanding its investments in the hospitality industry. Kiyimba heads Brovad Hotels, which has grown from its original operations in Masaka into a wider family investment in the hospitality sector. Her son, Rashid Kiyimba, is the proprietor of Mount Elgon Hotel & Spa and has overseen the development of the Mbale property as part of the family's expanding hospitality portfolio.
The investment has included upgrades to accommodation and meeting facilities, positioning the hotel to serve business travellers, conference delegates and tourists visiting the Elgon region. The restored facility retains its identity as a historic Mbale landmark while offering modern accommodation and leisure services. The hotel lists 65 rooms, including three executive suites, as well as restaurants, bars, a swimming pool and spa facilities.
For the Brovad Group, the reopening represents another step in the expansion of its hospitality interests beyond its traditional base. Kiyimba welcomed the development on social media, congratulating the Brovad Group and expressing gratitude to God for the achievement. She posted on X, "Congratulations to the Brovad Group. Thank you, Lord, for this milestone."
The reopening comes as Mbale and the wider Elgon region seek to strengthen tourism and conference activity. Mbale hosted the national World Tourism Day celebrations on Sunday, bringing renewed attention to the region's tourism attractions and hospitality facilities. The renovated Mount Elgon Hotel adds accommodation and meeting capacity to the region, which is expected to boost tourism and economic growth.
The President's recognition of Kiyimba comes against the background of her long involvement in the hospitality business. The hotel's reopening is a significant milestone for the Brovad Group and the Ugandan hospitality industry.
Key points
- President Museveni commends Hajjat Sarah Kiyimba for her contribution to Uganda's private sector.
- The renovated Mount Elgon Hotel offers modern facilities while preserving its historical character.
- The hotel's reopening is expected to boost tourism and economic growth in the Elgon region.
