President Yoweri Museveni has officially inaugurated the 10th Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo, highlighting Uganda’s unique geographical advantages, comfortable climate, rich culture, and food as key tourism draws.
He also addressed concerns about the Ebola outbreak, assuring attendees of the country’s containment measures.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni officially opened the 10th Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo, a significant event aimed at showcasing Uganda’s tourism potential. Speaking at Speke Resort Munyonyo, the President emphasised the nation’s unique attractions and its growing economic landscape.
Addressing anxieties about the recent Ebola outbreak, President Museveni assured both Ugandans and international visitors that the disease is manageable with early detection. He explained that Ebola’s spread through close contact makes it easier to control than COVID-19. While acknowledging a few cases entering from neighbouring Congo, he stated that the government’s targeted measures, rather than complete border closures, were effective, although specific border markets with high interaction would be temporarily shut.
The President described Uganda as exceptionally unique due to its location on the Equator, which provides moderate, comfortable temperatures year-round, a stark contrast to extreme climates elsewhere. He referenced Winston Churchill’s famous description of Uganda as the “Pearl of Africa,” underscoring its natural beauty.
Beyond scenic landscapes, Museveni highlighted Uganda’s cultural richness, diverse cuisine, and peaceful environment as major draws for tourists. He also praised African indigenous foods, noting their health benefits and originality, suggesting the continent could offer healthier food options globally.
On the economic front, President Museveni announced that Uganda has already achieved lower-middle-income status and is now aspiring to reach upper-middle-income. He attributed this steady growth to advancements in commercial agriculture, manufacturing, and the service sector.
To further boost tourism, plans are in motion to liberalise visa policies, extending stay durations for tourists to match the longer visa periods often granted to Ugandans by other nations.
Earlier, Permanent Secretary for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Doreen Katusiime, credited Uganda’s tourism resurgence to the peace and stability fostered under President Museveni’s leadership. She noted improvements in infrastructure, such as road networks, and highlighted the positive impact of hosting major international events like the NAM Summit and G77 + China Summit, as well as preparations for AFCON, in showcasing Uganda globally.
Uganda Tourism Board CEO Juliana Kagwa and Chairperson Pearl Hoareau Kakooza also expressed optimism, pointing to increased visitor numbers, a boosted tourism budget, and the effective marketing of Uganda’s distinct experiences.
The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo serves as a crucial platform for marketing Uganda as a premier destination, bringing together industry stakeholders, investors, and international buyers.
