Mr Robert Tumwesigye, Director of the Kitagata Cultural Troupe and Green Forest Community Development Organization, has called on Ugandan tourism operators to look beyond wildlife and embrace cultural tourism in their itineraries.
Speaking during the second Stakeholders Engagement Meeting at the Uganda National Cultural Center (UNCC) last week, Tumwesigye highlighted the country’s rich cultural diversity, which includes 65 tribes, as an untapped resource for attracting tourists.
“Ugandans pride themselves on a strong cultural heritage, yet we’ve failed to leverage it to attract visitors,” Tumwesigye said. “Cultural tourism offers something tangible and authentic. Unfortunately, our tourism focus is mainly on gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, and lions—the ‘big five.’ Culture is often relegated to the background, perhaps a mention of a dance or performance.”
He urged Uganda to follow the example of countries like South Africa, India, Vietnam, and Malaysia, where cultural tourism is a key attraction. Tumwesigye suggested that Uganda promote cultural elements such as the Imbalu initiation ceremony in Bugisu, traditional performances from the Iteso, Batwa heritage, and historical sites across the country.
“We can create cultural tourism products like documentaries, traditional dances, marriage rituals, and more. When marketing Uganda, tell visitors that in addition to the wildlife, they can explore Buganda, Toro, and Busoga kingdoms, visit the Bushmen in the falls, or trek Mount Elgon. Package it well—then include the chimpanzees.”
The meeting featured representatives from various sectors of the creative industry, who discussed ways to improve the industry for both creatives and the nation.
Robert Musiitwa, Head of Public Relations at the UNCC, stressed that such engagements are essential to developing strategic plans that will move the sector forward. “We cannot plan or claim progress without involving the key players in the sector. These engagements are just the beginning, as we aim to work strategically with the right ideas to foster growth.”
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