In a vibrant and memorable event on September 10, 2024, Fairway Hotel, Kampala played host to the grand launch of World Tourism Day. Organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA), this year’s celebrations will take place in Kasese and are centered around the theme “Tourism and Peace,” reflecting a collective yearning for unity, development, and harmony within Uganda and beyond.
Tourism is fundamentally about bridging cultures, communities, and individuals, serving as a catalyst for fostering understanding, tolerance, and mutual respect across diverse groups. This year’s World Tourism Day will spotlight these values through a series of significant events leading up to the main celebrations at Nyakasanga Grounds in Kasese Municipality.
The pre-celebration events include, Kampala schools’ engagements at MUBS on September 13, 2024, miss tourism grand finale at serena hotel on September 14, 2024, annual tourism program review and thematic conference at hotel Africana on September 29, 2024, exhibition of cultural enterprises at the national theatre from September 24-25, 2024
The festivities in Kasese will feature a rich program including tourism at Kilembe quarters, peace conference at Rwenzori international hotel, medical camp at Nyakasanga grounds, the exploring of Rwenzori, commissioning of the Kikorongo equator monument (the new equator monument), games and sports such as bicycle riding, football, and tug-of-war
The launch event saw the attendance of key figures from the Ministry of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Center, Uganda Tourism Board, and prominent tour operators. On the entertainment front, the event was graced by Uganda’s renowned kickboxer and Tourism Brand Ambassador, Golola Moses, and celebrated musician Mr. Moses Ssali, popularly known as Bebe Cool.
The Minister emphasized in his address that Kasese was chosen because it is a region that has demonstrated resilience in the face of recent setbacks, such as attacks in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This highlights the transforming power of tourism. “Kasese stands as a symbol of resilience and the potential for change through tourism,” the Minister remarked. “By choosing Kasese as the venue, we are emphasizing how tourism can rebuild communities, restore hope, and pave the way for a peaceful and prosperous future.”
The Rwenzori Mountains, often known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” are located in Kasese, a region that provides adventurers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers with experiences that cannot be found elsewhere. Due to the region’s abundant tourist potential, travellers are encouraged to go hiking, trekking, explore local cultures, and experience the warmth of the community.
Golola Moses, who was decked up in traditional costume and wooden foot crafts known as Mikalabanda, urged Ugandans to attend the celebrations wearing their traditional garb in order to highlight the country’s rich cultural legacy.
Also Read: Rwenzori Theluji Festival Thrills Kasese Residents with Conservation, Culture, and Adventure
“Your efforts in highlighting the activities leading up to World Tourism Day are crucial,” the Minister said, pleading for the media to play a critical role in marketing the event. By telling heartwarming tales about our nation, you contribute to peacemaking, tourism, and perception change. Let’s take use of this opportunity to highlight Uganda’s potential, beauty, and resiliency.”
As Uganda takes the lead in promoting the ability of tourism to build peace and unity, World Tourism Day 2024 promises to be a celebration of not just tourism but also peace and unity.
