Every year, on September 27th, the world comes together to celebrate World Tourism Day, a day designated by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to highlight the contribution of tourism to the global economy, culture promotion, and environmental conservation. This year’s theme, “Tourism and Peace,” emphasizes the industry’s role in promoting unity, understanding, and sustainable development.
In Uganda, the celebrations were held at Nyakasanga Grounds in Kasese district, where the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, in collaboration with other government departments, agencies, and civil society organizations, led the national event. The ceremony was graced by Hon. Tom Butime, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, who represented H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of Uganda.
Highlighting Uganda’s Rich Heritage
As part of the National Organising Committee for World Tourism Day 2024 in Uganda, the Cross-Cultural Foundation of Uganda (CCFU) contributed to the celebrations.CCFU’s contributions to the event included participating in celebrations which took place in Kasese and supporting members of a heritage club from Bright Academy Secondary school, who participated in a march to promote the day’s theme.
Additionally, CCFU facilitated the participation of the Ekishaabu Women’s Trust of the Basongora Indigenous Minority Group, who showcased their unique cultural treasures, and the Batangyi Clan Members Association, who showcased how they harness culture to promote chimpanzee conservation for example using their apiary projects to supplement livelihood options of clan members.
The Uganda Railway Museum from Jinja also participated in the exhibition. The museum showcased items such as kerosene lamps used by trains, distinct photos such as Ripon Falls Hall, Jinja which accommodated the Queen when she visited Uganda to commission the Nile Bridge in 1954, among other artefacts.
Uganda’s Tourism Potential and value of culture in promoting peace
Uganda is endowed with a wealth of tourism attractions, including the iconic mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the majestic Nile River, and the breathtaking scenery of the Rwenzori Mountains. However, the country’s tourism industry faces several challenges, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited access to finance, and environmental degradation. Furthermore, cultural resources have not been fully utilised to provide alternative tourist attractions and packages. Investing in these resources can potentially diversify Uganda’s tourism products and promote sustainable tourism development.