The new Wavah@Equator restaurant at Kayabwe on the Kampala-Masaka highway will not only propel the town to new glory but also change the face of Uganda’s tourism sector.

What’s more, the magnificent facility is offering enterprising individuals or companies a chance to rent it.

Anyone who has used the Kampala-Masaka highway knows Kayabwe mainly due to the large Equator signature on the roadside. It is here that the imaginary line that divides the earth into two symmetrical parts passes.

Because of this phenomenon, many locals in the area set up craft shops selling traditional outfits. Oftentimes, people stop over for photoshoots while tourists mostly seize the opportunity to buy local fabrics, garments as well as some antiques.

As with anything, the area had become monotonous over the years, with little to offer beyond shopping and photo opportunities.

Well, that is until Prof Gordon Wavamunno embarked on an ingenious solution to make the popular stopover more active.

Last year, he started the construction of a multi-million facility to cater for the needs of travellers that need comfort and relaxation without having to book into hotels.

When The Observer visited the place on October 30, the place was all but complete as it awaits its first set of guests. The magnificent building, which lies just a few metres off the highway, has the capacity to seat about 100 people.

It is also a blend of ancient architecture and modern, sleek designs. The core of this magnificent structure is a spacious orbital meeting space with a restaurant and bar. The scene inside is stunning with its wooden theme; right from the ceiling to the floor as well as the seats.

What’s more, the setting is designed and segmented in a way to ensure different groups of up to 10 people can have a private meeting without disruption.

It does not matter what the weather is outside or the hustle and bustle of the highway because the ambiance here is quite resplendent with a calming effect.

According to Wavamunno, the inspiration behind this magnificent structure is to tap into the tourism potential of the area as well as creating the perfect stopover for long-distance travellers that may need an executive place to cool down for a cup of tea or even a beer.

The venue can also accommodate all types of moods and distinctions; from European-styled luxury to beach-themed relaxation. There is also space for funky junkies who want the feel of car seats.

Wavamunno goes the extra length to ensure that the place is eco-friendly through the use of solar. Outside, there is a spacious parking that can accommodate 100 cars.

Located 75 kilometres from Kampala, Kayabwe is centrally located for weekend getaways as well as picnics, not to mention work-related events.

Solar power and the lush green surrounding the place give it a feel of the wild. However, much as the works are virtually complete, Wavamunno says the place is open for rent for willing bidders.

“I want to attract entrepreneurs who may wish to tap into the potential of the facility,” he says. “This is so because I want to lift other people who may not have the financial capacity to set up such a facility. I also plan to expand the facility to include accommodation and a swimming pool soon.”

So, as travellers that ply the Kampala route to western Uganda await its grand opening, there is no doubt it is going to change the face of Kayabwe as well as the tourism sector.

For those who enjoy stopovers, this is going to be the place to meet.