The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities (MTWA), together with its agencies, including the Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda Wildlife Education and Conservation Centre, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Uganda Wildlife Research Institute, Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute, launched the Explore North domestic tourism campaign on Thursday at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel.
Explore North, scheduled for May 30th to June 3rd, 2023, is part of the Tulambule series of campaigns that comes shortly after two successful domestic tourism campaign series dubbed Explore Elgon and Explore West that were held between December 2022 and April 2023.
The initiative strives to boost domestic tourism in Northern Uganda. It is the second campaign to be held in the Northern region after Tulambule Northern Uganda, which took place in March 2019 and saw participants visit Gulu, Murchison Falls National Park, Fort Patiko, and Aruu Waterfalls.
Hon. Martin Mugarra, the state minister for tourism, wildlife, and antiquities, noted that Explore North comes at a time when the country is in a recovery phase after the COVID-19 hit wave that befell the world and greatly affected the tourism and hospitality sectors, among other industries and global economies.
He said, “The campaign is part of the initiatives the government is undertaking to ensure the recovery and sustainability of the sector, owing to lessons learned from COVID-19 when the international tourism market was cut off due to travel restrictions and lockdowns. Therefore, countries including Uganda are focusing on inspiring citizens to embrace domestic tourism and participate in visiting local attractions for the sustainability of the industry in case of any new shortcomings or uncertainties as it was in early 2020’’.
According to Daniel Irunga, the Senior Marketing Officer for Leisure at UTB, by 2024, tourism in Uganda is predicted to rebound to 100% from its present 65% level. Because of this, initiatives like Explore North will help us reach full recovery.
He added, ”Uganda’s renowned singer Dr. Jose Chameleone, a famed two and a half decade hitmaker, kickboxing champion Golola Moses, and well-known comedian Teacher Mpamire will feature on the campaign to blend it up and attract larger audiences while promoting domestic tourism. To tell the rest of the world about Northern Uganda’s tourism, Miss Tourism Northern Region and other influential individuals will be part of the journey to Northern Uganda’’.
A guided tour of Fort Patiko and Aruu Falls, as well as community engagements to learn about the cultural customs and histories of Gipir and Labongo tourism sites, are just a few of the major tourist attractions in the area that will be highlighted during the Explore North domestic campaign.
Following the success of the domestic tourism campaign ”Explore West”, the initiative Explore North will highlight the natural grandeur that makes northern Uganda an increasingly popular getaway. The campaign will also give Ugandans a rare opportunity to proudly explore their country and experience what makes it uniquely ours.
The Ministry will capitalize on the Explore North domestic tourism campaign to continuously emphasize the newly launched, refreshed destination brand identity “Explore Uganda – The Pearl of Africa,” which invites tourists both local and international to come explore Uganda in-depth, stay for a while, and get to know the country’s special tourism offerings.
Northern Uganda In A Round
Northern Uganda is a region rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance and is home to;
Murchison Falls National Park
A renowned national park is home to the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the Nile River surges through a narrow gorge. The park offers breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and numerous bird species, as well as exciting boat safaris and game drives.
Kidepo Valley National Park
Known for its remoteness and untouched wilderness, Kidepo Valley National Park is considered one of Africa’s best safari destinations. It offers stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, such as lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes, and the opportunity to interact with the indigenous Karamojong people.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Located en route to Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is a successful rhino conservation project. Visitors can track and observe white rhinos in their natural habitat, contributing to the preservation of this endangered species.
Fort Patiko
This historical site holds significance as the location where the renowned explorer, Sir Samuel Baker, was held captive during his expedition. Fort Patiko provides a glimpse into the region’s colonial past and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.
Gulu Town
Gulu is a vibrant and bustling town with a rich cultural heritage. Explore local markets, visit traditional Acholi villages, witness cultural performances, and learn about the region’s history and folklore.
Karamoja
Immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the Karamojong people in northeastern Uganda. Experience their traditional dances, visit cattle markets, and explore the stunning landscapes of the Karamoja region.
Kidepo Valley Hot Springs
Located within Kidepo Valley National Park, these natural hot springs offer a relaxing experience amid the wilderness. Enjoy a soothing soak while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Karuma Falls
Situated on the Victoria Nile, Karuma Falls is a series of picturesque waterfalls. The area provides opportunities for boat rides, birdwatching, and experiencing the power of nature.
Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
This vast and remote reserve offers a unique wilderness experience. It is home to a wide array of wildlife, including elephants, zebras, giraffes, and over 240 bird species.
Aruu Falls
Nestled within a lush forest near Pader District, Aruu Falls offers a tranquil retreat. The waterfall cascades over several tiers, creating a scenic and peaceful environment.
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