Gardens Founder Tooro Richard

Tooro Richard

Founder & CEO
The Foundation

A Vision Rooted in Nature

Founded in 2020, Orucuba Gardens was brought to life by Tooro Richard—a visionary and the founder of Kabarole Tours Ltd—with a mission to create a place where comfort, culture, and nature unite effortlessly.

Driven by his deep love for Uganda and a storyteller’s heart, Richard designed Orucuba not just as a welcoming retreat, but as a vibrant base for tourists to explore the heart of the Pearl of Africa. Whether you're relaxing at the gardens or venturing out on a guided tour, his desire is simple: to give every guest the best care, authentic experiences, and stories they'll carry for life.

With roots in the tourism world through Kabarole Tours Ltd, Richard brings a rare mix of hospitality and narration where every corner of Orucuba tells a story, and every stay becomes part of Uganda’s unfolding adventure.

Our Journey

Milestones

Key moments that shaped Orucuba into what it is today.

2010

The Vision Begins

The founder purchases 50 acres of secondary jungle with the dream of creating an eco-retreat that would fund conservation efforts in the region.

2020

First Accommodation Built

After years of careful planning and sustainable sourcing, the first eco-friendly accommodation is completed using locally-sourced materials and traditional building techniques.

2022

Eco-Certification Achieved

Orucuba becomes recognized in the region for its commitment to sustainable tourism and community empowerment.

2023

Community Partnership

We establish our local sourcing program, sourcing a majority of our ingredients from nearby communities and supporting local organic practices.

2024

Conservation Expansion

Orucuba expands its reach by partnering with local wildlife and nature conservation organizations to protect adjacent lands.

Meet The Team

Passionate Stewards

Our dedicated team brings Orucuba's vision to life every day.

Ayera Brian

Ayera Brian

Supervisor

Formerly working with Chobe Safari Lodges, he brings indigenous knowledge from Northern Uganda to the Orucuba family.

Esther Musiimenta

Esther Musiimenta

Chef

Raised with deep traditions of local Tooro cuisine, her culinary skills are enriched by both national and international exposure.

Hadiijha Dauda

Hadiijha Dauda

Guest Relations

A multifaceted professional serving as receptionist, barista, and beautician with years of dedicated hospitality experience.

Our Commitment

Core Values

Principles that guide every decision we make.

Environmental
Stewardship

Orucuba is a model for growing organic crops such as pineapples and vegetables, promoting original seeds and biodiversity.

Community
Partnership

100% of our staff are native to our area, ensuring authentic information and experiences are shared directly with our guests.

Authentic
Experiences

We design encounters that foster genuine connections with nature and culture, from guided walks to traditional craft workshops.

Thoughtful
Comfort

Every indulgence is carefully considered—artisan-crafted furnishings, and amenities that delight while minimizing environmental impact.