The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has welcomed the visit of Jamaican dancehall star Spice, saying her presence in Uganda will significantly boost the country’s tourism profile and cultural visibility on the global stage.
Spice, whose real name is Grace Latoya Hamilton, is in Uganda ahead of her performance at the “Let’s Get Spiced Up” concert and paid a courtesy visit to the Buganda Kingdom headquarters at Bulange Mengo, where she met the Katikkiro and ministers serving under Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.
The concert is organised by the Uganda Tourism Board in partnership with the Buganda Heritage and Tourism Board, with the aim of promoting Uganda as a tourism destination and attracting international visitors.
Speaking during the meeting, Mayiga highlighted the historical and cultural connections between Uganda and Jamaica, noting shared ancestry rooted in Africa.
“People from Jamaica are not different from us because we share many things, including complexion, appearance, and culture. They originated from Africa, even though they were taken as slaves to work for Europeans in past centuries,” he said.
He added that visits by globally recognised figures like Spice help raise Uganda’s profile internationally.
“When a famous artist like this comes to Uganda, the whole world takes notice. This will help bring more tourists because people cannot visit places they do not know,” Mayiga said.
The Katikkiro also emphasised the broader economic value of tourism, including job creation and revenue generation, while encouraging Ugandans to embrace leisure and participate in tourism activities.
Mayiga added that hosting a globally recognized artist like Spice raises Uganda’s profile:
“When such a famous artist visits Uganda, the whole world takes notice," he said. "This will help attract tourists, because people cannot visit places they do not know about. It also helps to promote and strengthen our culture and traditions.”
“Tourism brings many advantages, including generating income and creating jobs. I encourage Ugandans to embrace leisure and learn to take time off to enjoy life.”
As part of her visit, Spice toured the Kasubi Royal Tombs, one of Buganda’s most significant cultural heritage sites, underscoring efforts to showcase Uganda’s historical and cultural attractions to international audiences.
Officials say such high-profile visits play a critical role in positioning Uganda as a destination for cultural exchange and investment, with global personalities acting as ambassadors who amplify the country’s story beyond its borders.
Spice is scheduled to perform on May 9 at the Lugogo Cricket Oval, with organisers expecting a large turnout for the concert, which is part of a broader strategy to merge entertainment with tourism promotion.
Her visit, stakeholders say, goes beyond music, contributing to a wider narrative that connects Uganda’s cultural heritage with global audiences and strengthens its appeal as a tourism destination.
