World Tourism Day 2024, preparations underway

26 September 2024, 11:50 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

World Tourism Day celebrations were adopted during the General Assembly in Mexico in 1980. It was agreed upon that all United Nations member states should commemorate this day on every 27th day of September each year. This time round, the Theme is “Tourism and peace” Since Uganda a United Nations member state it is entitled to also celebrate this day. Therefore; a series of activities were organised by the Ministry of tourism, wildlife and antiquities together with other partners.

As one of the activities for commemoration of this day, the Cross Cultural Foundation of Uganda has organized an exhibition for cultural enterprises where various cultural outfits, dances among others will be exhibited at the national theater in Kampala from 2nd to 3rd of October 2024, and Ugandans have been encouraged to attend not only to have fun but also learn more about their culture.

According to the Ministry of tourism wildlife and antiquities, there will be a moment to recognize persons and organisations who have made unique and significant contributions to the tourism industry in Uganda the Pearl of Africa. One of the categories to be recognized is the best tourism city of the year. Under this category of award, selections will be made depending on various things such as attractions and activities, tourism planning, accommodation, accessibility, tourism infrastructure, technology and connectivity among others.

The Minister of State for Tourism wildlife and antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra encouraged Ugandans and tourists to join them in Kasese. “Tourism bridges cultures, avails investment opportunities in the various destinations and immensely contributes to sustainable development benefiting numerous categories of people along its value chain. I therefore encourage you to join us, as we commemorate this day in Kasese” he said.

Kasese district is a cocktail of stunning tourism attraction sites and essential history. Not only does it harbour the 2nd largest and most beautiful parks like Queen Elizabeth national park but also the Rwenzori mountain, Kazinga Channel, Kikorongo equator, Katwe salt lakes, spectacular hills and lakes, etc. This week the European Union pledged to give Uganda €10 million (UGX41.4 billion) to boost Uganda’s tourism sector and enhancing the country’s visibility as an attractive and sustainable travel destination. This was revealed by the European delegation head, Mr John Sadek. He said this support aims to draw more tourists from Europe and beyond.