[ad_1]
Uganda’s tourism sector scored a significant milestone after a successful showcase at the South Asia Tourism and Travel Exchange (SATTE) 2026 in New Delhi, elevating the country’s profile among Indian travelers and industry stakeholders.
The event provided a high-impact platform for Uganda to promote its adventure, cultural, and premium tourism offerings while forging new business partnerships.
The three-day exhibition, held from February 25 to 27 at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in Dwarka, drew over 50,000 attendees from more than 60 countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Maldives, Jordan, Egypt, Hong Kong, Nepal, Jamaica, and Vietnam.
With 29 state tourism boards and 2,200 exhibitors participating, SATTE offered Uganda a dynamic stage to showcase its diverse tourism potential.
Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn
Uganda’s delegation, coordinated by the Uganda High Commission in New Delhi, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Airlines, and Destination Marketing Companies (DMCs), was led by Ambassador Prof. Joyce Kakuramatsi Kikafunda, High Commissioner of Uganda to the United Kingdom.
“The engagements at SATTE 2026 have significantly enhanced Uganda’s visibility in the Indian market and provided an opportunity to recalibrate the narrative about our country. Through strategic B2B and G2B interactions, we have addressed misconceptions, countered negative perceptions, and positioned Uganda as a premier tourism and investment destination,” Kikafunda said.
Uganda’s delegation highlighted attractions ranging from scenic landscapes, hiking trails, cycling tours, and golf resort hotels, to international sports events, premium Ugandan coffee, and rich cultural heritage–positioning the country as a high-end adventure and experiential destination.
Brian Mwanika, Head of Economic and Commercial Diplomacy at the Mission, said the campaign was gaining momentum, noting Uganda’s landscapes, flora, and wildlife as potential draws for Indian filmmakers and tourists alike.
Tour operators shared similar optimism. Ivan Kayondo, Director of Universal Travels (U) Ltd, reported securing substantial business deals for June 2026 and praised the collaborative approach between the High Commission, UTB, and partners for enabling smaller operators to gain market traction.
Parvin Namutumbwe, Travel Consultant with Kubwa Five Safaris, also highlighted new client acquisition and improved industry visibility thanks to the Mission’s coordination.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
Ambassador Henry Mayega, Head of International Economic Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, credited direct flights between Entebbe and Mumbai, launched in 2023, and the 2025 Inter Airline Agreement with Air India for seamless connectivity to more Indian cities.
He urged consideration for daily flights and new routes to New Delhi and Bangalore to further unlock India’s vast tourism potential.
India’s outbound travel market continues to expand rapidly, with 39 million departures recorded in 2024 and international travel expenditure rising from $4 billion to $17 billion over two years, positioning the country as a strategic source market for global tourism.
Uganda’s SATTE participation followed the recent Mid-Term Review Meeting of the Economic and Commercial Diplomacy (ECD) Strategy in Mombasa, where Ramathan Ggoobi, Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury, emphasized that diplomatic missions should prioritize measurable economic outcomes, including boosting exports, attracting investment, and promoting tourism.
Established over three decades ago, SATTE remains one of the world’s largest travel trade exhibitions, uniting global tourism professionals, airlines, hospitality providers, and national tourism boards, while offering a leading platform for networking, innovation, and business development.
Uganda’s performance at SATTE 2026 underscores strengthened tourism and trade relations with India and reflects the country’s strategic use of diplomacy to drive sustainable economic growth.
[ad_2]
Source link
