Known among Nakuru residents as Mlima Ugali- The Hill is situated near Barut Centre.

It is not clear the origin of the name Mlima Ugali, but many argue it might have been derived from the figure of the Hill that resembles Ugali on a plate.

Though the name Mlima Ugali has stuck in the minds of many residents, the locals in the area majority form the Kalenjin community call it Kimenderit Hill.

According to them, this is not just any other Hill but a Sacred one where their ancestors used to offer special prayers.

The first Member County Assembly of Nakuru for Kapkures Ward Joseph Langat who is among the elders in the area reveals that the Hill is sacred as ancestors used to pray on top of it for special occasions.

He adds 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.

"This is a sacred Hill to the community" he stated.

But to the common residents in Nakuru, Mlima Ugali is just but a recreational Hill where many visit to unwind and have a serene environment away from the urban set-up.

On weekends, many families and groups make their way to the top of the hill either as a picnic or hike.

It is perhaps through this, that the County Government of Nakuru Department of Tourism took over the management of the facility.

Speaking to this writer via phone, Nakuru County Tourism Association Chairman David Mwangi stated categorically that the site is now a recreational site.

Mwangi revealed that already the county Government of Nakuru has fenced off the place and constructed a Multipurpose Hall.

The Hall is meant to serve those who visit the area either as religious groups or families on picnics.

"I can state here without fear that the Department of Tourism at the County Government of Nakuru has taken over the management as a recreational site" he said.

According to Mwangi, plans are on the way to improve the site as a recreational centre in Nakuru County as individuals who visit the site can have a clear view of Nakuru City.

For now, individuals or groups visiting the site are not charged but Mwangi says there is need for prior information to be communicated to the gatekeeper at the site before visiting.

pmambili@googlemail.com

Mlima Ugali: The Sacred Recreational Hill

Author Spotlight

Pristone Mambili