Welcome
Our vision
Ski Club Uganda is more than just a club for adventurous skiers; it’s a community dedicated to preserving the unique and fragile ecosystem of the Rwenzori Mountains. We aim to make a tangible impact on the environment and the local communities that call this region home.
Why we care
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Biodiversity: The Rwenzori Mountains host an incredible array of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
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Climate Impact: The glaciers and snowcaps of the Rwenzori play a crucial role in regulating the climate and water resources for the surrounding regions.
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Cultural Heritage: The mountains hold significant cultural and economic value for the local communities who have lived in harmony with this environment for generations.
Our commitment
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Awareness Campaigns: Through educational programs, social media outreach, and community events, we aim to highlight the importance of the Rwenzori Mountains and the urgent need for their conservation.
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Fundraising Initiatives: We are dedicated to raising funds to support conservation efforts, including protecting the natural habitat, promoting sustainable tourism, and supporting local communities in their conservation activities.
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Collaborative Efforts: Partnering with local and international conservation organizations, we strive to implement effective strategies for preserving the Rwenzori Mountains’ unique ecosystem.
Origin Story
Ski Club Uganda was born out of a playful adventure and the humor of a British colonial officer named Andrew Stuart. In 1955, while on a reconnaissance mission in the Rwenzori Mountains, Stuart and his companions decided to ski down a glacier for fun. He later wrote a humorous article about this experience for the Uganda Argus, which was picked up by the New York Herald under the title “Ski Championships at the Equator.”
Proud of their impromptu adventure, Stuart retroactively founded Ski Club Uganda to commemorate the event. The club remained largely a legend until fifty years later when a Swiss adventurer, Dominic Richard, tracked down Stuart, now a retired officer. Delighted that snow sports were still being pursued in the Rwenzori, Stuart even approved the inclusion of snowboarders in the club. Today, Ski Club Uganda continues to celebrate the spirit of adventure and the unique experience of skiing in one of Africa’s most extraordinary mountain ranges.