Away from the familiar attractions of Jos, a different side of Plateau State unfolds in Kunga, where rocky hills rise above green valleys and the sound of falling water adds to the quiet beauty of an indigenous community.
Located around the Jos North axis, Kunga is more than a rural settlement. It is a place where the landscape and the heritage of the Anaguta people come together, offering a glimpse of a community whose identity remains closely connected to its land and traditions.
At the heart of the community’s natural appeal is Kunga Waterfall, one of the features that gives the area its tourism potential. Surrounded by rocks and vegetation, the waterfall provides a striking natural setting that could attract visitors seeking less-explored destinations on the Plateau.
Yet, the beauty of Kunga goes beyond its scenery.
The community is home to the indigenous Anaguta people, with traditional institutions, customs and communal values continuing to shape life in the area.
For generations, the people have maintained a close relationship with their environment, while engaging in activities that sustain their families and community.
Small-scale farming and local trading remain part of everyday life, while artisanal mining also features among the economic activities associated with communities within the wider Jos basin.
This combination of nature and livelihood gives Kunga a character different from that of conventional tourist destinations.
Here, the hills are not simply a backdrop, the valleys are not merely scenery and the waterfall is not just an attraction. Together, they form part of the story of a people and their relationship with the land.
For a state widely recognised for its cool climate, hills and scenic landscapes, Kunga represents another opportunity to broaden the tourism story of Plateau beyond its better-known destinations.
With appropriate investment in access, environmental protection, community participation and responsible tourism, Kunga could gradually emerge as a destination for visitors interested in nature, culture and local heritage.
The opportunity, however, goes beyond attracting tourists. Developing Kunga responsibly could create opportunities for local businesses, young people and residents while encouraging the preservation of the community’s natural environment and cultural identity.
Kunga therefore stands as a reminder that some of Plateau’s most compelling attractions may not be found in the places already prominent on the tourism map.
Sometimes, they are found in quiet communities, where a waterfall runs through the rocks, green valleys stretch into the distance and an ancient people continue to tell the story of their land.
PHOTO CREDIT: Enixworks Creatives
