MTWA launches world tourism day themed "Tourism and Peace"
Uganda has officially launched the 2024 World Tourism Day celebrations in Kampala scheduled for September 27th, in Kasese District with this year’s theme, Tourism and Peace, set to highlight the transformative role of tourism in fostering harmony.
Kasese District, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes will host the event, positioning itself as a hotspot for peaceful tourism destinations.
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Elias Byamungu, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Kasese, emphasised that the district is not only a gem for visitors but also a testament to how peace can thrive through sustainable tourism.
“Kasese is a peaceful tourism destination, and we are proud of what we offer,” he stated, underscoring the region's role in promoting peace through its multifaceted natural beauty.
Dr. James Musinguzi, the Executive Director of Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), urged the nation to use tourism as a platform to advocate for peace.
“We should preach peace and work towards stopping domestic violence, UWEC is committed to mobilizing schools around the country to embrace peace and conservation,” he remarked drawing a connection between environmental stewardship and societal tranquility.
According to Vivian Lyazi, the Commissioner of Tourism Development at the Ministry of Tourism, wildlife and Antiquities, peace is essential for the flourishing of the tourism sector.
“Peace enhances tourism, and focusing on peaceful destinations like Kasese is key to driving the industry forward,” he noted.
Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in Kasese is the second most visited National park, and a testament to this, drawing in 96,000 visitors last year alone, with half of them being Ugandans. This figure is projected to rise by the end of 2024 as domestic and international interest in Uganda's attractions grows.
Tourism contributes significantly to Uganda's economy, employing 6% of the nation's workforce. As the sector continues to grow, events like World Tourism Day serve as reminders of the importance of peace in fostering development and unity across communities.
