This December, We at Guide2Uganda are delighted to wrap up this year’s ultimate annual Top 100 Tourism, Travel and Aviation Stories that made the year 2021 and some of the guest articles in One Single Newsletter that caught the attention of our readers especially in the wake of the Covid-19 Era.
As always, we unveil you eye catching and charming top notch stories that have ruled the space of Tourism, Aviation and Hospitality sectors all year around covering all the biggest stories right from January to December for your readership. Take a deep look, enjoy reading and Have a lovely New Year 2022!
- Uganda Airlines secures Airport slots at London’s Heathrow
Apparently few weeks after unveiling the two A330 – 800 neo Aircraft that serve long haul flight operations, Uganda’s national carrier secured Airport slots across its major long haul route destinations majority of them being the Heathrow Airport in London, UK effective March 28th 2021.
2. Viva Uganda: National carrier makes maiden trip to Dubai
Uganda’s national carrier – Uganda airlines took to the skies and made its maiden flight to Dubai, the long awaited and first intercontinental flight for the carrier since it was reinstated in the Country in August 2019. According to the Airline’s officials, the destination is popular for Ugandan bleisure travellers who are currently optimistic gaining more from the advancement given that Dubai is a lucrative route.
3. Uganda’s Kiplimo breaks half-marathon record in Portugal
Uganda is yet again ranking high on the athletics ladder after long distance runner Jacob Kiplimo set a new world record for the half marathon in Portugal’s capital Lisbon arriving at the finish line one second shy of the previous world record (set by Kibiwott Kandie’s record of 57:32).
The world champion clocked 57 minutes 31 seconds as he won the Lisbon Half Marathon road race on Sunday. Kiplimo, who won bronze in the 10,000m at the Tokyo Olympics earlier this year, broke the previous record set by Kenya’s Kibiwott Kandie in Valencia in 2020.
4. Kahunde wins 2021/2022 Miss Tourism beauty pageant
Tooro beauty queen Susan Kahunde, 22, is the new and reigning Uganda Tourism ambassador after beating 26 other contestants for the Miss Tourism 2021/2022 crown over the weekend.
The new beauty queen, Ms Kahunde is the former Tooro Sub-region miss Tourism winner and is a certified midwife from Tumu Medical Institute.
The first runner up, Ms Phiona Opia, 22, holds a diploma in Agri-business management from Bukalasa Agricultural College, and the second runner-up, Ms Rashidah Namukwaya, 21, is a student pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration from Makerere University Business School.
5. Vumbula Uganda takes the fun to Kabale
After registering two successful trips this year, Vumbula Uganda wrapped up the year with a journey to what they called the Switzerland of Uganda, Kabale. The Nile Special sponsored trip was flagged off by their brand manager, Mr Joel Gala, UTB’s Daniel Lunga, and Miss Tourism Karamoja, Ms Loceng Jemima who were joined by the adventure loving peeps to unearth the beauty that the Kigezi Region has to offer.
The travellers were treated to thrilling activities such as the visit at the Equator, zip lining, island hopping, boat cruise, nature walks, games, amongst others. And as if that wasn’t enough, the journey was also spiced up by the charming Mc Africa who was onboard, and of course some surprise performances from the dancehall act, Coco Finger and Dj Ciza who made the Nightlife experience quite memorable.
6. Passengers sent into panic as fire guts part of Entebbe Airports
Airport authorities had to evacuate panicked passengers from a waiting lounge at the Entebbe International Airport as emergency services put out a fire. Although police and the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority said it was a minor incident, the 3pm fire caused panic among passengers who were near the area it broke out. According to authorities, the fire was caused by a short circuit.
“Passengers and all the other users of Entebbe International Airport were immediately evacuated as the UCAA Rescue and Fire-fighting Services team handled the situation,” said a statement from Mr Vianney Luggya, the spokesperson of the UCAA.
7. All you need to know about Omicron-the new covid-19 variant
WHO designated the variant B.1.1.529 a variant of concern, named Omicron, on the advice of WHO’s Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution (TAG- VE). This decision was based on the evidence presented to the TAG-VE that Omicron has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves, for example, on how easily it spreads or the severity of illness it causes.
8. ‘Golden Boy’ Cheptegei unveiled as Uganda’s new tourism ambassador
It was another win for long distance runner and 5000m world record holder ‘Golden Boy’ Joshua Cheptegei as he was officially unveiled by the Uganda Tourism Board as the new tourism ambassador in February 2021. Cheptegei who wore a deep smile said he was so delighted to be offered such a chance to work with tourism stakeholders as they seek to rebuild an industry that has been nearly destroyed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
9. “Ladies and gentlemen’’ – British Airways says no more
After becoming the latest airline to remove the term “ladies and gentlemen” from all onboard announcements, British Airways has been accused of trying to appease the woke brigade. Instead of using gender-specific language, the airline will begin using gender-neutral language on all of BA’s flights in the coming days.
The choice to stop using gendered announcements was a good one. British Airways is the latest airline to acknowledge that gender is not the only factor determining one’s identity. When Lufthansa began using gender-neutral announcements in June, the airline realised that customers would need some time to get used to the change.
10. 89 year old Mehta, Wife Sunayana enjoy maiden Gorilla tracking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Mr. Mehta together with wife Sunayana, and family not only enjoyed the beautiful sights and sounds of nature, diverse bird species, tranquility, gorgeous unique tea plantations but also enjoyed interactions with the local community.
“Gorillas are quite a unique animal species as they keep climbing up and down stem branches, moulding, playing around, rolling up and down like a dice, feeding on leaves and breaking down branches. The thick tropical rainforest of Bwindi has the most beautiful scenic views and the feeling on untouched nature is incredible,” Mr. Mehta said.
11. Uganda Airlines to add “Nsenene” to their on board menu after trending video
Following a social media viral video that circulated online of a Ugandan youth selling seasoned and local delicacy grass hoppers natively dubbed “Nsenene” aboard a Uganda airlines aircraft, the Airline came forward and issued its intent to add the delicacy to her on board menu. The incidence happened on a Uganda Airlines flight number 446 enroute to Dubai on 26th November 2021 at a time when passengers were boarding the aircraft. In the video, a local trader is seen receiving payments from passengers as they order and buy Nsenene in polythene bags which seemed below the standards of inflight culinary experiences reason why the UCAA and MAAIF have tightened up protocol on unprocessed foods at the Airport.
12. Uganda in advance stages to launch its first satellite
The government of Uganda is in advanced stages towards having its first satellite by August 2022. The satellite, PearlAfricaSat-1, is the latest mission from the Joint Global Multi-Nation Birds Satellite project. The project, first announced in 2019, took a major step forward recently prior to the approval of funding for a ground station at Mpoma near Kampala.
13. UCAA & Entebbe Airport re-certified with ISO 9001:2015 QMS
With continued efforts aimed to the great cause, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) and Entebbe International Airport have retained the prestigious ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems (QMS) Certification. ISO 9001:2015 specifies requirements are to plan, establish, implement, operate, monitor, review, maintain and continually improve a documented management system used to manage quality.
14. Zimbabwe considering mass killing of elephants to manage their population
Known as home to one of the world’s big family, Zimbabwe is considering culling, the mass killing of elephants, as a possible measure to manage the ever growing elephant population that currently is terrorizing the country’s natural resource.
If enacted, this will be the first time since 1988 the country is choosing mass killing to reduce the 100,000 strong population of the animals.
15. Top 10 Housing options for Expatriates in Uganda
With Uganda receiving a warm and sunny climate all year round, the nation is a natural haven for anyone contemplating to finding residence, visit, work or doing business. For a simple developing country like Uganda, challenges of housing still exist especially in urban areas which also sometimes are densely populated with majority residents residing in suburbs popularly known as ‘’Ghettos’’ given their little earnings as most live below the dollar margin on a daily.
Uganda’s Financial Sector Development Strategy (FSDS) estimates the country’s housing deficit to be 1.6 million units, with an annual requirement between 180,000 and 210,000 units. Given rapid rates of population growth and increasing urbanization, a widening housing need may overwhelm cities in the near future.
16. How meals are cooked onboard an Aircraft?
Meals onboard can be one of the best or the worst parts of a flight – depending on the airline and your cabin class. Whether they are good or bad, there is still a lot of organization and preparation that has gone into most airline meals. Let’s find out what’s involved.
17. Uganda airlines commences direct flights to Johannesburg-SA
Ugandan national carrier, Uganda Airlines kick started what many travelers would say was the long awaited route, the Entebbe-Johannesburg direct flights which are conducted four days a week. Interestingly1, a return air ticket costs $341, about sh1.2 million. Although the average price for a return air ticket for the first week of June was lower at $270, they are not a direct flight like Uganda Airlines is.
18. Ekyooto Ha Mpango inaugurated with Royal Tour to Semuliki National Park
The much anticipated first ever annual Tooro Kingdom gala dubbed ‘’Ekyooto Ha Mpango’’ cultural and tourism festival kicked off on Wednesday 24th November, in Fort Portal tourism city.
The event had earlier been announced in September this year, at Tooro Kingdom Palace while launching Vision 2045 during the climax of the 25th coronation anniversary celebrations and on the eve of the 26th coronation of Rukirabasaija Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. The cultural and tourism event took place in Fort Portal tourism city under the theme ‘’Harnessing the power of your culture’’ with the intent to promote Tooro’s domestic tourism and rich cultural heritage.
19. Serengeti named top African national park at World Travel Awards
Talking of beauty, wildlife variety and unique wildlife and park activities in Africa, East Africa remains a top niche for great wildlife experiences. Taking on from this, Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park remains atop of the list with the latest being named best national park in Africa, beating six other national parks from the continent in the World Travel Awards (WTA) 2021.
Famed for the Wildebeest migration and a vast plain that accommodates millions of wildlife including the Big 5, Serengeti was named Africa’s Leading National Park for the third time in a row.
20. Uganda Hosts 4th African Birding Expo
With over 1,090 confirmed bird species, Uganda is a fast developing bird hub for enthusiastic birders worldwide. Uganda was chosen this year as the grand destination for the fourth African Birding Expo, an event that saw a convergence of birdwatchers from all over the African continent celebrating birds and bird heritage.
21. Uganda Gov’t sets regulations guiding on taking food through Entebbe Airport
Travellers carrying unprocessed foods through Entebbe International Airport will be required to acquire phytosanitary certificates, according to new directives by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF). Phytosanitary relates to measures for the control of plant diseases, especially in agricultural crops.
The new directive applies to unprocessed agricultural imports and exports for personal cargo. Many Ugandan passengers have been freely exporting food stuffs as passenger cargo, with no standards being enforced.
22. US Embassy in Uganda warns Citizens on possible domestic terror attacks
The US mission in Uganda issued an alert to all her citizens residing in Uganda especially in the capital Kampala of possible domestic terror attacks by terrorist groups active in the Country after a terror attack at Digida pork joint in Komamboga, Kawempe division claiming at least the life of Emilly Nyinaneza of Rwandese origin and a suicide bomber attack on a swift bus enroute to Bushenyi along Lungala, Mpigi days ago.
23. No more Visas on arrival, Uganda issues online visa application directive
Earlier this year, Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has directed that all visa applications must be made and paid for online. This came in after a forty-two day lockdown directive issued by His Excellency President Yoweri K Museveni in his earlier address to the nation on the COVID-19 spike. Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has since directed that all visa applications must be made and paid for online and not on arrival.
24. Africa’s International Powerhouse: 76 Years of Ethiopian Airlines
Starting its operations with former military Douglas C-47 transports, Ethiopian Airlines has grown to become Africa’s largest airline. Founded on December 21st, 1946, the carrier now has a fleet of 130 aircraft, operating a particularly diverse fleet of wide body twinjets.
Having already covered the airline’s history in previous articles, let’s specifically take a look back at the carrier’s past year.
25. Churches, schools and inter-district travel banned to counter-check second wave Covid- 19 spike in Uganda
Following a sharp rise in covid-19 cases over the past fortnight, stringent measures have been reconsidered by the government of Uganda as a precaution measure to scale down the rate of infection and dispersal of the virus.
In a Nationwide speech that was telecast on almost all national televisions and aired on numerous radios, the President of Uganda Yoweri Museveni last evening re-imposed a strict lockdown that included the closure of schools and the suspension of inter-district travel to help counter check the surge in COVID-19 cases in the East African country.
26. Uganda Airlines apologizes for delayed flight as plane runs out of fuel in Tanzania
It is quiet unusual for an Airline to have a delayed scheduled flight except for genuine reasons and so Uganda Airlines wasn’t spared from the mess brought about by delays related to the official fuel suppliers for the national Airline in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania earlier this year.
The mishap that took place on Monday July 12th as scheduled flight number UR 321 brought about public attention in the East African region as many travelers thought it would be related to a technical issue while others questioned on how the nearly two years old resumed Ugandan commercial passenger Aircraft for the Country would breakout so quick months down after resumption to the airspace. But error is to man.
27. UTB’s first-ever virtual Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE 2021) notches record attendance
The much-anticipated 6th Edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2021, closed amidst cautious hopes and optimism on recovery for an industry that employs nearly 700,000 Ugandans but has been in limbo since April 2020. Organised by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), the Uganda government’s tourism industry marketing agency and standards regulator, POATE is an annual Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business to Consumer (B2C) gathering that brings together Ugandan tourism players such as tour and travel agencies, hoteliers, airlines etc with mainly wholesale tourism companies (hosted buyers) from Uganda’s key markets from all over the world, for purposes of doing business.
28. Uganda Airlines opt for Geven’s Piuma AQ Economy and Comoda AQ Premium Economy seats for new A330-800NEO
Uganda Airlines has opted for Piuma AQ (Alta Quota) and Comoda AQ (Alta Quota) Premium Economy Class seats for their first A330-800neo aircraft.
Uganda Airlines selected Gaven seats for their renowned comfort, functionality and aesthetics features which enhance passenger experience while their efficient design focused on durable and reliable parts minimise fuel consumption and maintenance costs.
29. Top 10 Restaurants in Uganda
Destination Uganda has an array of fine-dining uptown Restaurants that operate at different business scales especially in the Kampala Capital. These Restaurant chains are owned by both local and international entrepreneurs who treat their clients to nothing else but absolutely finger licking dishes as they offer several multifaceted food varieties offering both local and international cuisines to their vast clientelle base that comprise mostly the urban corporates, uptown youth, slay queens, slay kings, slay Jajas, Celebrities, among other groups of society members as they serve an array of menus 24/7 right from; Breakfast, brunch, luncheons, and dinner for both local and International cuisines.
30. Top 10 Best Private Hospitals in Uganda
The proverb ‘Health is wealth’ means that one’s health is the greatest wealth. To maintain a healthy mind and body, one must eat clean and healthy food, balance your diet with the right promotion of essential minerals, exercise regularly, consume lots of fruits and veggies, drink lots of water, sleep early and adequately for 8 hours. All these help one function right and have a blissful life.
However, whenever one feels his general health is not running as normal, it’s time to meet the doctor. In Uganda, we have a number of hospitals that are up to the task and have proved over time that they are worth a try for anyone seeking satisfactory health solutions.
31. Music star Akon heaps praise on Ugandan tourism, looks forward to investing in Uganda
World famous US hip-hop artist Aliaume Damala Badara Thiam alias Akon has thrown praise on Uganda’s tourism and said his view about Uganda has greatly changed after visiting and seeing different parts of the country.
Akon who was on a four-day courtesy visit to Uganda arrived in the country on good Friday and directly headed to Rwakitura in the country side to meet with the president of Uganda YK Museveni before going ahead to visit several parts of the country, starting with Queen Elizabeth National Park.
32. Uganda Gov’t to construct man-made lake in Karamoja
The government of Uganda is in advanced stages of constructing a 10,000 square hectares, estimated at about sh.354bn, mam-made lake at Lopei in Karamoja Sub-region. This comes as a way to restraint insecurity and promote agricultural production in the region.
This was revealed yesterday by the outgoing Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Mr John Byabagambi while handing over the office to his successor, Dr Mary Goretti Kitutu, in Uganda’s capital, Kampala.
33. Top 10 Nursing Schools in Uganda
Nursing is one of the reputable and best professional courses not only in Uganda but also worldwide. This is so in that nurses are highly paid and there is more assurance of jobs and job security after completion of a nursing course.
Nurses are also highly demanded given the fact that nursing schools educate on basis of best health practices of well-being as well as good health habits and lifestyle. This makes a nursing career worth taking on. Finding a nursing school to enroll to is another key factor one has to think about before jumping onto a nursing career wagon.
34. Top 10 Cafés in Kampala
Destination Uganda boasts of having the best fine coffee shops that operate at all levels especially in the Capital Kampala city as these are popular for serving clients the finest Arabica coffee grown in the Pearl of Africa.
Cafés within Kampala and Uganda atlarge end at nothing but treat their clients to the best prepared fine coffee cups for an experiential throat smoothening moment at their dine-in facilities / shops fitted with state of the art furniture and interiors to satisfy your coffee appetite and impulse.
35. Top African artists to grace the 2021 MTV Africa Music Awards in Kampala
As the 2021 virtual MTV Africa Music Awards (MAMA) draw closer, the organizers of the event have publicized a performance line-up with top stars from across the continent that will grace the happening.
On the performance list are performers like Nigeria’s Wizkid, South Africa’s Nasty C,
Tanzanian Diamond Platnumz and Kenya’s Khaligraph Jones. More on the list is Uganda’s Sheebah Karungi, Cape Verde’s Soraia Ramos, Suspect 95 from the Ivory Coast and São Tomé and Príncipe’s Calema.
36. How Internet penetration has promoted Gorilla Tracking in South Western Uganda
Internet and Tourism are closely virtually intermarried and co – exist especially when it comes to destination marketing, selling of tourism products, and also bookings and payments among others.
The boost in Gorilla tracking activities and visits in Uganda’s Western region based Bwindi Impenetrable National – the Gorilla hub, DRC and Rwanda has mainly been due to proper increased usage of internet and social media by travelers who showcase to the world the course of embarking on an adventure in Uganda for enticing their colleagues across the World and the region to take on a memorable trip to the same spots or anyother destinations of their own.
37. IATA Travel Pass first tried on the Ethiopian in Africa
With airlines grumpling with the covid-19 after effects, more airlines are conforming to new regulations to effectively stay in business and move along with the recovery process. The Ethiopian, an African Airlines Group has become the first African airline to conduct a trial of the IATA Travel Pass, a digital travel mobile app to enhance efficiency in testing or vaccine verifications.
38. Uganda already reaping big from the Dubai Expo
The pearl of Africa is among 192 countries that are exhibiting at the 2020 Dubai World Expo currently hosted by Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. The Dubai Expo 2020 will run for six months from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022 and Uganda has already set foot. It will be open seven days a week, from 10:00 to 00:00 on Saturday to Wednesday, and 10:00 to 02:00 on Thursday and Friday.
The Expo is a tool for economic, culture and social improvement, counting the collaborating of the most powerful countries in the world that act together for a global growth and it aims at
activating the achievement of the goal sustainable development at the level of countries, communities and families.
39. New Boeing 737 MAX 10 completes first trial flight
On 20 June, 2021, the Boeing 737 Max 10, begun a comprehensive test programme with a successful first flight. Boeing’s 737-10, the largest aeroplane in the 737 MAX family completed a successful first flight surpassing a number of set expectation. The aeroplane took off from Renton Field in Renton, Washington, on Saturday June 20, 2021 at 10:07 and landed at 12:38 at Boeing Field in Seattle.
40. Uganda Airlines to commence maiden commercial flight of her A330neo Airbus
Following the successful certification with the AirOperations Certificate (AOC) by the Civil Aviation Authority, the airlines was high on its heels operating her first commercial flight with the Airbus Neo A330-800s. On the 27 and 29th of August, travelers between Nairobi and Entebbe had the opportunity to fly Uganda Airline’s new wide body aircraft whose cabin features 20 full- flat, business-class beds, 28 premium-economy seats and 210 economy-class seats, totaling 258 seats.
41. Why you should fly Uganda Airlines
Uganda Airlines is Uganda’s national carrier. The airline was revamped in 2019 after the government decided that having a national carrier was highly needed.
The airline is fully owned and funded by the government, with 50 percent shareholding each by the ministries of Works and Transport. Being a young and highly ambitious airline, Uganda airlines has come aboard with great customer favors and considerations. There are a number of reasons why any travel enthusiast should opt to have his next flight with Uganda Airlines.
42. Reasons you must visit Uganda for a Golden Safari post Covid-19
The Tourism industry has been one of the most hit industries due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Without exception, Uganda is also among the top African tourist destinations that have felt the pinch of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Early in March 2020, upon the registration of the first covid-19 case in Uganda, the country underwent a total lockdown for close to 6 months. All national parks were closed off even before the month of March ended. The land borders were also crossed off as well as Entebbe international Airport. Only essential travelers were permitted to move in and outside the country.
43. What Safari lodges need to know before taking on local names as trading names in destination Uganda
When setting up a Safari lodge or any accommodation facility in Uganda’s tourism and hospitality sector, important things to have in mind are name selection, Trademarks and the laws relating to trademarks. The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (USRB) provides for research on the name to be used for a particular business entity or organisation so as to avoid conflict of interest on intellectual property. This article highlights and guides would be potential Entrepreneurs and Accommodation establishment owners operating already under the private sector in the Pearl of Africa on the legal issues pertaining Trademarks in Uganda.
44. Uganda embraces Electronic permitting system to regulate Wildlife Trade
As a continued effort to develop Uganda’s tourism sector to the heights, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities launched the first electronic permitting system to regulate trade in wildlife as well as wildlife products in the country. The electronic permit system was established under the theme “Strengthening Sustainable Wildlife Trade Regulation” and aims at controlling legal trade in wildlife and prevent illegal specimen trade.
45. Uganda Airlines wins Award for World’s youngest fleet Aircraft
Uganda Airlines seems to toast to greater times ahead as it was recognised on March 15, 2021 at the CH – Aviation thereby bagging the Award for World’s Youngest Aircraft fleet.
The National flagship carrier with its hub at Entebbe Airport won the Award and this is a milestone especially given its new presence in the skies after almost a decade the Airline had been out of operation, only to bounce – back bold and strong in August 2019.
46. Uganda Airlines partners Hahn Air-German in new interline agreement
In March, Uganda Airlines reached an agreement with German based airline – Han Air in a new interline treaty. Hahn Air is a German based airline and ticketing solutions provider that has been in the aviation sector for quite some good time.
The Hahn Air innovative product is now accessible to Uganda Airlines, allowing the airline’s tickets to be sold in markets where it would ordinary be impossible without membership to the local Billing and settlement Plan (BSP). BSP is a central point which consolidates ticket data and payments made by travel agents in a region or country.
47. Uganda Coffee Day 2021 in Mbale City
The Uganda Coffee Day 2021- an annual coffee event, was hosted by Mbale City, Eastern Uganda. Organized by Uganda Coffee Federation (UCF) and Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), this coffee day event will take place on October 7th, 2021 as coffee stakeholders are expected to attend the event to run under the theme “A Celebration of Arabica and the Mount Elgon Coffees” so as to also celebrate Mount Elgon’s contribution to coffee development today and into the future, and to also launch the Drink Uganda Coffee Month – a national premier domestic consumption program plus jump start domestic tourism with emphasis on coffee tourism, following the Covid-19 lockdown and its impact on coffee tourism.
48. Ethiopia and Uganda join hands to promote their tourism
The Ethiopian Embassy in Kampala in partnership with the Uganda Tourism Board earlier this year held a webinar titled “Discover why Ethiopia is the origin of so much,” to explore tourism opportunities and cooperation between Ethiopia and Uganda. The online conference attracted senior government officials, tourism experts and operators, representatives of tourism association and owners of tourism companies from both countries.
49. New Big 5 chosen by Wildlife lovers around the world
A new Big 5 has been named by wildlife lovers who voted out in a currently running conservation project. The goal of the New Big 5 project is to raise awareness about the many different species facing problems, from pangolins, orangutans, and rhinos to little-known, under- appreciated species.
50. Industry partnership delivers support for Airports in fighting wildlife trafficking
Illegal wildlife trade is estimated to have an annual value of up to $23 billion. Airports Council International (ACI) World earlier his year published guidance for airports in combatting the global illegal trade of protected species of wild animals and plants. The ACI Combatting Wildlife Trafficking Handbook was developed with the support of the USAID Reducing Opportunities for Unlawful Transport of Endangered Species (ROUTES) Partnership.
Elephants are often poached for their ivory and tigers for their skins and bones, for example, other species, such as rosewood, pangolins, birds, reptiles, rhinos and marine turtles, are also among commonly trafficked species.
51. Africell exits Uganda telecom market
Following economic uncertainties with in the Uganda market, Africell Uganda Limited came out and announced it will be exiting the Ugandan market. This came vivid after the company’s announcement to its employees, to which pointed at the first week of October being the last for it to serve its customers. The company said a survey about their future in Uganda revealed that they can no longer achieve the dream of impacting through a digitally led transformation of society and consequently, the need to pull out of the market.
52. Uganda national Basketball Team-Silverbacks in Angola
Uganda’s National Basketball team, the Silverbacks, later in the year left for Benguela, Angola for the first Window of the 2023 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers. FUBA had earlier on confirmed the team’s withdrawal from the tournament after failing to secure the funds from Government to facilitate the trip. Later on, the Federation of Uganda Basketball Association (FUBA) President Nasser Sserunjogi announced that Uganda Silverbacks had everything to get going for the tournament.
53. IATA focuses on standards for ground handling post pandemic
IATA is focusing on standards, digitalization and addressing the skilled labour shortage to build resilience for ground handling activities. There will be challenges as ground handling operations ramp up to meet growing demand as the aviation industry’s recovery from COVID-19 progresses. Overcoming labour shortages, ensuring safety with strict adherence to global standards and digitalization and modernization will be critical to achieving a scalable restart,” said Monika Mejstrikova, IATA’s director of ground operations.
54. IATA Survey: 83% Of Airline Passengers in favor of Inflight mask wearing
According to a passenger survey conducted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), 83% of airline passengers strongly support mask-wearing onboard flights. The survey also looked at other factors such as confidence in protective measures, COVID-related rules and requirements and perceived aircraft cleanliness.
In a June survey carried out by IATA, 83% of participants strongly favored masks onboard flights. However, the majority of those surveyed (65%) were also in favor of ending mandatory masks as soon as possible. The survey involved 4,700 participants across 11 markets worldwide who had flown at least once since June 2020.
55. Dubai Airshow: Airbus placed orders and commitments totaling 408 aircraft
Airbus placed orders and commitments totaling 408 aircraft (269 firm orders and 139 commitments) during the 2021 Dubai Airshow. The agreements covered the full range of commercial aircraft families, including a first commitment for the A350F freighter derivative.
At a pre-show event, Airbus launched its latest global market forecast outlining progressively shifting demand from fleet growth to accelerated retirement of older, less fuel-efficient aircraft resulting in a need for some 39,000 new-build passenger and freighter aircraft. Of these, 15,250 aircraft (around 40%) are for replacements.
56. National Teachers’ College Mubende launches the annual Agri-thon event
NTC Mubende in partnership with VVOB launched the Agri-thon, an educational competition, in July 2021. The purpose of the Agri-thon is to equip student-teachers to teach agriculture practically. By participating in the Agri-thon, student-teachers year 1 Juniors gained valuable skills such as innovation, value addition, facilitation techniques etcetera.
57. Uganda Airlines Showcasing its A330-NEO at the 2021 Dubai Airshow
Uganda’s national carrier, Uganda Airlines showcased its A330-NEO registration No.5x-NIL at the 2021 Dubai Air Show starting 14th to 18th November in a static display at the Al Maktoum Airport (Dubai World Central-DWC). In partnership with Airbus, the national carrier showcased part of her fleet to the world in bid to sale destination Uganda.
58. Uganda’s Kickboxing Champion Golola Moses to feature in Tourism Movie
Uganda’s Kickboxing Champion, Celebrity entertainer and actor and self-proclaimed ‘’Golola Moses of Uganda’’ is a part of a movie cast titled, “Rwenzori, The Mountains of the Moon” that is to be premiered on the 26th of November in Fort Portal during the Ekyooto Ha Mpango festival.
The movie’s storyline is a 9-day fact-finding hike to the snowcapped Margherita Peak, Mt. Rwenzori’s highest point measuring 5,109 metres (16,762 ft)) tall, filled with adventure, anxiety, mixed emotions, pain, comedy, and the sweet feeling of victory.
59. KCCA embarks on making Kampala green
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) is the body responsible for operations of the capital City of Kampala in Uganda. While celebrating World Cities Day, KCCA in partnership with Rotary Club of Kampala Metropolitan, organized a tree planting and sensitization activity along Gadhafi Road in Kampala, an evented hoped to kick start urban forestry in the city.
The exercise was taken on by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Dorothy Kisaaka and Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago who led divisional leaders and technical wing staff in a tree planting campaign.
60. Global hotel values fall due to pandemic, recovery anticipated by 2025
Hotel values are not expected to make a full return to pre-pandemic levels until 2023-25 with some regions across the globe showing faster recovery than others, according to a webinar held by hotel consultancy HVS and EP Business in Hospitality.
HVS consultants from Europe, Middle East & Africa, Asia-Pacific, India and the Americas revealed the impact of the pandemic on hotel performance across the regions and the factors impacting recovery. While many markets faced additional issues including the rate of vaccination rollout, new hotel supply coming on stream, travel restrictions and the level of dependence on conference and event business, all named the shortage of staff as a key issue as hotel operators looked to move back into profitability.
61. UTB, KCCA to position Kampala City as top tourist destination
Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop and promote tourism in Kampala through tourism product development, quality assurance of hotel and accommodation facilities and promotion of tourism awareness in the City. The partnership agreement signed at the Kampala Capital City Authority Head Offices in Kampala; was to promote Kampala City as a top tier tourism destination and gateway to Uganda’s premium tourism products.
62. Transport fares hiked as the Festive season comes closer
As it has always been the norm in Uganda, the Christmas season always comes along with hiked transport fares as majority of the urban population travel back to their rural homes to check on and enjoy the festivities with their loved ones including; family, relatives and friends.
Normally, when most Ugandans hit the working age bracket, they usually leave their homes to fend for a better future and end up getting to towns and cities where they work all year round with little time to check on their parents and family earlier left behind in their rural homeland. Therefore, when Christmas time sets in, majority of these people opt to travel back to their families and enjoy the day(s) together.
63. Ugandan Football Talents recognized at the 2021 Airtel – FUFA Awards
These annual Awards aimed at recognizing and celebrating the finest and most unmatched football players across the country while recognizing their achievements on and off the pitch have also seen the telecom extend a sponsorship package worth Shs100 million towards organizing the event with support from other FUFA partners.
While making his remarks at the press briefing, Airtel Uganda Managing Director, Manoj Murali said, “As Airtel Uganda, we are excited to be part of the launch of the 2021 Airtel – FUFA Awards, awards that recognize and honour excellence of Ugandan footballers, both men and women who have gone the extra mile by showcasing resilience, hard work, and passion for what they do.”
64. Quack Tour Operator Convicted – Sentenced to 3 years in prison
Uganda’s judicial system has in recent times proven to complement the nations Tourism sector with a recent crackdown on fake servicemen within the tourism sector. The Chief Magistrate’s Court in Entebbe on 15th October 2021, remanded Mpamu Godfrey Paul to Kitalya prisons until 20th October 2021 on the offence of obtaining money by false pretense. Mpamu had masqueraded himself as a tour guide and fraudulently obtained money from tourists to whom he promised earlier for a gorilla tracking experience only to land them prey for sham interests.
65. Emirates Airlines to step up flights to Uganda
Emirates will increase passenger flights from Dubai to Entebbe to five weekly, starting 6 March, 2021, providing Ugandans better connectivity to Dubai and travel options across Emirates’ network.
The additional flights will be operated by Emirates Boeing 777-300ER. Flight EK729 will depart from Dubai at 10:30hrs, arriving in Entebbe at 14:55hrs. The return flight, EK730 will depart from Entebbe at 16:55hrs, arriving in Dubai at 23:10hrs.
66. Vaccines and Reopening Borders driving Tourism’s recovery process
International tourism enjoyed signs of rebound in June and July 2021 as some destinations eased travel restrictions and the global vaccination rollout advanced in many parts of the world.
According to the latest edition of the UNWTO World Tourism Barometer, an estimated 54 million tourists crossed international borders in July 2021, down 67% from the same month in 2019, but the strongest results since April 2020. This compares to an estimated 34 million international arrivals recorded in July 2020, though well below the 164 million figure recorded in 2019.
67. Long-haul travellers cautious about planning trips to Europe
Results suggest that as long as COVID-19 safety concerns persist, many will remain cautious about visiting European destinations. However, with vaccination rates continuing to improve across the globe, there is a greater appetite from long-haul travellers to visit Europe than this time last year.
The LHTB from the European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail BV anticipates short-term travel intentions in five overseas markets – Canada, China, Japan, Russia, and the United States every four months. Intention to travel is measured in an index that reflects the dominant sentiment expressed by a market, either positive or negative.
68. 87 Routes: How Turkish Airlines Uses Its 22 Boeing 737 MAXs
The world now has more operational B737 MAXs than it did before the type’s grounding. While North America is very much responsible for this, Turkish Airlines plays a key role. Indeed, the Star Alliance carrier has now 22 MAXs, comprising 18 MAX 8s and four larger MAX 9s.
Turkish Airlines’ first MAX 8 (TC-LCA) arrived in December 2018, with 11 delivered by February 2019. This was the month before Ethiopian Airlines’ accident occurred which resulted in a worldwide grounding of the MAXs until December 2020. Turkish now has the fourth- highest number of MAX 8s, after Southwest, American, and Air Canada, ch-aviation shows.
69. Uganda eliminates entry Visas for South Sudan Citizens
Uganda waived Visa entry prerequisites for the people of South Sudan effective Friday October 1st, 2021. In abid to strengthen effective integration of the East African community, South Sudanese nationals are set to start entering Uganda without a Visa as its been in the past.
Hon. Rebecca Kadaga – 1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs Rebecca Kadaga said that, ‘’South Sudanese travelling to Uganda will now enter the Country provided they hold at hand a valid passport and possess other valid health condition requirements for travelers’’
70. Uganda’s cross country Coffee contests to increase Country’s exports to the UK
The Uganda coffee development Authority (UCDA) through a partnership with the British High Commission Kampala and the Ugandan High Commission London, will host a cross-country Arabica coffee competition.
The event will be hosted simultaneously in Kampala and London. The aim of the competition is to bring quality Ugandan coffee to an international market, increase UK interest in Ugandan coffee and ultimately increase coffee exports to the United Kingdom.
71. UAE hotel occupancies cross 90%, F&B sales seen rising by 30%
Demand upsurge, fuelled by Expo and easing of travel restrictions, has also led to a jump in hotel tariffs, with rates seeing a 40 percent increase for October and expected to further rise in November.
The combined effect of Expo 2020 Dubai and relaxations in tourism-related travel on the UAE’s hospitality industry is loud and clear – with some of the leading players in the hotel sector reporting occupancy levels touching over 90 percent, while the food and beverage (F&B) sector, already seeing a quantum jump in footfall in the last fortnight, is expecting a boost in sales of up to 30 percent in a near-term basis.
72. Passengers left astray after Covid-19 results issuance delays at Entebbe Airport
Multitudes of Ugandan travelers earlier this week remained astray at Entebbe International Airport while they missed out their flight to the United Arab Emirates aboard Emirates Airline as a result of delays in issue of their Covid-19 results by a Laboratory called Safari Lab, a private PCR antigen testing facility authorized by Government to test for Coronavirus at the Airport.
According to a source at the Airport, approximately 300 passengers were left in desperation when they missed out their flights to the UAE as Safari Lab sent results at 2:45pm just 15 left to close time as Emirates Airline closed its gates by 3pm.
73. Time Up: Ugandans urged to upgrade Passports or miss flights to foreign Countries
With nearly a six months passport renew deadline coming to a close, many Ugandan citizens that haven’t yet renewed or upgraded their ordinary machine-readable passports to the meet the standards of the new East African required Electronic passport stand high chances of flights halt or travelling out of the Country.
Government through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration under the Ministry of Internal Affairs will be phasing out the old machine-readable passports by 4th April 2022.
74. South African Airways to restart operations after one-year respite
South Africa’s state-owned national carrier South African Airways (SAA) will resume flying between limited destinations from 23 September, a year after it halted operations as it failed to pay its debt.
Last month the government had said that it was selling a 51% stake in the carrier to Takatso consortium, which had committed more than USD 200 million to bring the airline back from the brink and restart operations.
75. Uganda resumes mass Covid-19 vaccination
Earlier this week, Uganda resumed mass vaccination of its citizens against Covid-19 following the recent acquisition of 586,000 vaccine doses. Uganda had stopped vaccinating her citizens after it ran out of vaccines. Last week, the country received 286,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine as a donation from Norway through the Covax facility and received another 300,000 doses of the Sinovac vaccine, a donation from China.
76. Passenger train services resume in Kampala City
In a bid to contain and curb down the spread of Corona virus in Uganda, stringent measures such as lockdowns and bans on transport means among others were instigated by government. This and more of the country’s transport means grounded with only cargo vehicles and permitted essential workers moving freely on the roads. However, after recording lesser new Covid-19 cases in health facilities, the government went ahead and partially opened some of the functional sectors of the economy.
77. Inter-District Water Travel not affected despite ban
Contrary to the recent ban against inter-district travel in Uganda, water transport across Ugandan lakes has continued uninterruptedly on various water bodies among districts. Earlier on, the president of Uganda passed a directive banning public transport across districts as away to contain a rapid surge in Covid-19 cases.
On Lake Victoria, several ferries such as MV Kalangala, MV Sigulu, MV Buvuma are operational, although they are only transporting cargo, ‘essential’ workers and tourists connecting to various islands.
78. Italian mountaineering couple swept away by Mt. Rwenzori’s unique charm
Christian and Dagmara Kuhne the Italian mountaineering couple who also this month were facilitated by Rwenzori Trekking Services to climb Mt. Rwenzori, were unanimously in agreement about the unique eco-diversity and the ‘sweet challenge’ presented by the Mt. Rwenzori.
In a July 9th meeting with the UTB Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Bradford Ochieng, soon after returning from an 8-day climb, the duo also said that Rwenzori’s unique endowment aside, the mountain, unlike many other mountains popular with climbers, is uncrowded which enhances the entire experience.
79. US Citizens rush to get their passports renewed
After a year and a half of a global pandemic that closed all international borders and kept people at home with movement restrictions, many passports have expired. Now that some countries are reopening, and Americans are finally taking their long-awaited vacations, a surprising number of them are realising that they must renew their passports before they can travel abroad.
80. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary reopens for tourist visits
Tourists planning to visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary will now have a sigh of relief after almost two months of premise closure to the general public due to land conflicts between Ziwa Rhino sanctuary and Ziwa Rhino Wildlife Ranch in Nakasongola district.
On Thursday last week, a team of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) officials led by the Executive Director Sam Mwanda reached an understanding with the Managing Director Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch (ZRWR) Capt. Charles Roy in a joint meeting with district leaders of Nakasongola led by the Vice District Chairperson Tingira Samuel as they reopened for access the Ziwa Rhino sanctuary once again to the general public for visits since closure on April 20, 2021.
81. Boeing set to reduce 787 Dreamliner production to 5 per month
American planemaker Boeing is cutting its 787 Dreamliner production again, making this the fourth adjustment in 18 months. The company posted zero deliveries for the month of November, with only four deliveries taking place in October. Recent production issues have further affected Boeing’s ability to deliver the new jets.
According to Reuters, the most recent cut in production will take output down to five planes per month from six, representing a 16% reduction.
82. Covid-19 Surge: Rwandair calls off direct flights to Entebbe International Airport
Rwandair revealed that direct flights to Entebbe International Airport have been temporarily called off due to the surge in Covid-19 cases in Uganda. This announcement was made by the Airline on Thursday June 10, 2021 in a media statement released earlier in the day reading;
“Due to a surge in COVID-19 cases in Uganda, RwandAir announces the suspension of its flights to Entebbe International Airport effective June 10, 2021, until further notice’’.
83. COVID-19 continues ravaging Uganda’s tourism after earnings dropped by 72%
The Corona Pandemic has taken a great toll on Uganda’s foreign exchange earnings after earnings from tourists’ arrivals fell by 72.7% to US$440 million in 2020 as earlier reported. According to a 2020 report on the tourism outcomes, Uganda received a total of 473,085 tourists compared to 1,542,620 tourist arrivals in 2019, representing more than 69% drop.
84. South African Airlink to start scheduled flights to Uganda
Regardless of the covid-19 effects worldwide, the air transport sector continues to dig through so as to remain relevant and ongoing. The latest news in the sector is that, celebrated South African Private-sector and regional airline Airlink has announced that it will start scheduled services to Entebbe International Airport in Uganda starting July 19 and will be operated four times a week.
According to Airlink CEO and MD Rodger Foster, he said “Entebbe, which is situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, serves Kampala, which is Uganda’s economic and trading hub, but also an important gateway to the Eastern Africa economic community and the Great Lakes region, which represents a significant market.”
85. Gyms return to life.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is massive in Uganda like the rest of the world where it froze social interaction, economic activity and socialization. The only option to curb its spread is to impose rules as fitness freaks continue getting their unique experiences.
“While some people embarked on reading, writing and binging at home, for others wellness became a lifestyle,” says a social critic John Serumaga. “With the gyms closed they went jogging in Mandela Stadium, on highways, nature walking, cycling and mountain climbing.”
86. Living in Uganda: All you must know about condominiums
With the current population out burst with in Kampala, Uganda’s capital, much consideration has to be put once one thinks of living around the ‘city of opportunities.’
In Uganda, once you’re looking to buy a home, there are plenty of choices available. One of them is a condominium— a multi-unit property that is divided and sold into individual units. Compared with a single-family dwelling, ownership in a condominium includes partial ownership in shared “common property.” This aspect of a condo represents unique challenges for buyers.
87. Airlines embraces US – EU travel for Vaccinated Passengers
IATA says European Commission’s comments are ‘step in the right direction’. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said it is encouraged by the comments of Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission (EC), that the EU will grant unrestricted access to vaccinated travellers from the US. “This is a step in the right direction,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
88. UAE Travel Influencer Khalid Al Ameri, Family arrive in Uganda
Government through the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) in partnership with Amos Wekesa’ Great Lakes Safaris Limited have invited United Arab Emirates based Travel Influencer Mr Khalid Al Ameri who arrived in Uganda aboard Emirates Airline on Tuesday April 6th at Entebbe International Airport together with his Wife Dahud Salaam and their two Children.
89. UTB starts Country wide grading and classification exercise for Tourism amenities
To comply in line with the latest new East African Community (EAC) standards on hotels among other tourism facilities in Uganda, the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) on Tuesday this week started off with a refresher training course lasting two days for the 12 EAC-certified hotel assessors at Protea Hotel, Entebbe.
Unlike the previous exercises, this year’s sensitive implementation that commences in May 2021, aims at improving skills for all Tourism facility practitioners especially in the presence of Covid – 19 and how they can operate effectively given the new East African Community guidelines as also during the course the board will embark on enormous stakeholder sensitization exercise.
90. Aircar unveiled: First Flying car inaugurated in Slovakia with inter-city maiden flight dubbed as ‘’New Era of Transport’’
The AirCar by Slovakia-based company Klein Vision completed a 35-minute journey from Nitra to Bratislava in the country at around 6am on Monday morning. Using wings that fold away in less than three minutes and a propeller at its rear, the dual-transportation vehicle has now completed more than 40 hours of test flights.
It runs on fuel from a regular petrol station and is fitted with a 160bhp BMW engine, and it has flown at 8,200ft with a cruising speed of 118mph.
91. US Lacrosse: For Uganda….For Africa!
This story originally appeared in the September 2014 edition of Lacrosse Magazine. It is being republished as part of US Lacrosse’s celebration of Black History Month. It tells the story of the Uganda men’s lacrosse team — the first African nation to play in the world lacrosse championship.
The Ugandans are late for lunch. It’s 11:45 a.m. as they saunter downstairs to the cafeteria at the University of Denver’s Centennial Hall for an 11 a.m. meal.
92. How the travel industry is working to restore demand
The travel and tourism industry must “provide the answers” in the recovery from COVID-19, but its fragmented approach still threatens to undermine progress. That was the view of tourism experts who took part in a Routes Reconnected panel session focusing on-demand stimulation.
Greek tourism minister Harry Theocharis, who also chairs a United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) technical committee exploring different national approaches, outlined how important international “trust and coordination” will be for the industry’s recovery.
93. Better days ahead as Uganda Airlines signs interline treaty with Emirates airlines
Earlier this month, Uganda Airlines announced that it had obtained slots to serve the United Kingdom and the United Arab Emirates. With such preparations underway to take on the new routes including flights to Dubai, the national carrier has signed a commercial partnership with Emirates. The agreement lights better days ahead as passengers will find a smoother and efficient travel with faster and available flight inter joining.
94. 4 Queen Elizabeth lion killer suspects cracked down in joint security operation
4 men suspected to have poisoned six lions and eight vultures were on Tuesday arrested after a joint security operation between Uganda Wildlife Authority, UPDF and Uganda Police in Western Uganda. The four suspects are currently detained at Kanungu Police under custody as these include; 26 year old Brian Ampurire, Vincent Tumuhire aged 49, Robert Aliyo, 40 and 68 year old Davi Miliango. Information leading to the arrest of suspects was given out by someone from the public as awaits the 10 million shilling prize to be offered by the authority.
95. Venice set to start charging tourists for entry
According to the Italian newspaper La Stampa, Venice plans to charge visitors for admission and set quotas beginning in the summer of 2022. According to the newspaper, the Italian city, which is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, will also require prospective visitors to reserve access in advance. Turnstiles will be installed at the main entrances to the city’s historic centre.
Guest Articles of the Year
96. Guide2Uganda Profiles: Making the shift to a brighter future
John Mukasa Junior (not real names) is the most documented member of his family. Aged 9 years, he has more pictures in one month than his great grandfather Masimo Mukasa, his grandfather Peter Mukasa and his father Isaiah all had in their entire lifetimes. His generation is the future.
When he comes of age his digital footprint along with technologically enabled record keeping shall ensure an account of his first dance or travel but also his first business. If he goes into the family’s coffee growing and fruit business – the difference between him and the generation past is sometimes what we refer to as informal versus formal.
97. LUXURY FARM HOTELS: Could they be the travel trend of the Future?
A few months ago, as I approached Mbarara, I made an impulse decision to check out a farm Lodge located 13.6km along Ibanda road. On Trip Advisor, Emburara Farm Lodge says it is a high-end eco – luxury lodge that promotes cultural tourism and conservation of flora and fauna in a fresh, serene and relaxed farm environment; where one can experience, first hand, the life, culture, and norms around the stunning Ankole long-horned cattle. Emburara is the perfect place for either a family vacation or a romantic getaway, with a reasonable number of activities for both adults and kids.
98. Africa’s park tourism crash is a wake-up call. Can we find new ways to finance conservation?
That African governments have failed to mobilise funds to conserve their vast protected areas is not in doubt. Countries were just about managing to pay basic salaries to rangers who barely had enough to put fuel in their patrol vehicles. Covid has exacerbated this already dire situation, with the loss of income from foreign tourism.
The continent has more than 8,500 protected areas, described by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as government-led national parks, areas jointly governed by state agencies, communities, privately owned wildlife reserves, and public-private partnerships between governments, companies and NGOs. Included too, are what the IUCN calls “indigenous peoples and communities conserved territories and areas”.
99. Guide2Uganda Profiles: Billionaire Sudhir’s real life is stranger than fiction
He is a billionaire who loves: a Havana Cigar, CowBoy hats, toe pointed shoes, beach wear, posh vehicles and sipping on Johnny Walker with a passion. This is Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia who has a legendary “Midas Touch” in every business he ventures grows by leaps and bounds.
“But contrary to public expectations, it’s not been as smooth as a runway,” confides time hardened Ruparelia. “There was the liquidation of Crane Bank which taught me a lesson to always have a mind that is stronger than my emotions.”
100. G2U Travel Experience: Ethiopian Airlines A350 Economy Class Review – Addis Ababa to Toronto
It was the end of my holiday and time to return to chilly Canada, so I booked a flight on Ethiopian Airlines from ADD to YYZ, with a stop in Dublin. This 16-hour long-haul was something I have been looking forward to for some time. After hearing so much about this growing African aviation company, I was eager to try them myself.
My trip actually originated in Johannesburg earlier in the day, and I had recently arrived in Ethiopia on one of Ethiopian’s 787’s. I’ll start the story there, and tell you about each aspect of my experience aboard ET 552!
About Guide2Uganda
Guide2Uganda (www.guide2uganda.ug) is the most comprehensive source of travel information about Uganda that exists on the web, with more content on its cities & towns, accommodation, attractions, events, museums and galleries than any other online guide that currently exists for Uganda; as well as being a dynamic travel news and events driven site with fresh content added daily.
According to WeFollow & Peer Index (that measure online influence), we are among the most influential online media organizations in Uganda. Guide2Uganda was also awarded ‘’Best Destination Website in Uganda’’ by Jumia Travel Uganda in the 2018 Africa Travel Awards.
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