Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has officially appointed Princess Ruth Komuntale of Tooro Kingdom, currently residing in Texas, USA, as a tourism ambassador for the United States market.
The announcement was made on Wednesday at the King’s Palace in Buziga, where Princess Komuntale was warmly received by Tooro Kingdom leadership, UTB officials, private sector players, and distinguished guests.
Princess Komuntale is in Uganda to participate in the Empango celebrations, marking the 30th Coronation Anniversary of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.
Her appointment as a tourism ambassador comes at a significant moment, symbolizing stronger collaboration between the Kingdom of Tooro and UTB in promoting Uganda as a premier tourism destination.
“I applaud UTB’s leadership in positioning Uganda as the Pearl of Africa, and for recognizing the role of our cultural institutions in this journey. Tooro has exciting milestones such as the Empango celebrations, and we would be honored to work with UTB to position these events as experiences that attract visitors to our kingdom,” said Princess Komuntale.
“I see great potential in building cultural tourism packages that highlight not just the events, but also our landscapes, cuisine, music, and traditions.”
Speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Juliana Kagwa, CEO of UTB, emphasized the importance of leveraging cultural heritage and influential personalities to market Destination Uganda globally.
She noted that Princess Komuntale’s international presence and influence will be instrumental in promoting Uganda to American audiences, showcasing Uganda’s culture, heritage, and natural attractions.
The ceremony was also attended by Mr. Ron Kawamara, Vice Chairperson of the UTB Board, who joined Tooro Kingdom leaders in witnessing the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to cement the strategic collaboration.
This appointment is part of UTB’s broader strategy to engage diaspora Ugandans and cultural icons in promoting tourism across key international markets, thereby strengthening Uganda’s visibility as the Pearl of Africa.