The Explore Uganda exhibition at the ongoing World Travel, Trade, and Taste Expo 2025 at the Toronto Metro Convention Centre has captivated hundreds of travel operators and tourists eager to learn more about the Pearl of Africa.
Uganda’s booth, organized by the High Commission in Canada, stood out at the expo, offering an immersive experience into the country’s rich heritage and attractions. Visitors enjoyed complimentary tastings of freshly brewed organic Ugandan coffee and the ever-popular Uganda Waragi, which generated buzz and drew continuous crowds.
To further engage attendees, free samples of roasted coffee beans were distributed, while a large LCD screen showcased Uganda’s breathtaking travel destinations, inspiring future visits.
One impressed tourist remarked, “I had never heard of Uganda before, but I will definitely add it to my travel plans this year.”
Tourism Promotion and Visa Guidance
Lilian Amaro, the immigration attaché at the High Commission, provided detailed explanations on the visa process, particularly the East African Tourist Visa, which allows travelers to explore Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya seamlessly.
The Ugandan delegation, led by Ambassador Allan Kajik, included several private travel operators eager to promote tourism. Among them was Esther Birungi, CEO of Churchill Safaris and Travel Ltd, who traveled from Uganda to exhibit at the expo. Recognizing its global exposure potential, Birungi expressed excitement about securing a partnership with a Toronto-based agent on her first day.
Similarly, Natasha Kamusiime, CEO of 7O7 Safaris, presented Uganda’s diverse travel experiences through captivating visual displays.
Adding an engaging touch to the booth was Janet Anzoa, Miss Tourism Commonwealth Africa, a Ugandan-Canadian whose warm personality and passionate pitches reinforced Uganda’s appeal as the Pearl of Africa.
Strengthening Uganda’s Presence in Global Tourism
Visitors also received handmade wristbands as souvenirs, encouraging them to consider Uganda for their next travel adventure.
Agnes Birungi, an embassy staff member dressed in a striking blue gomesi, expressed surprise at the limited awareness about Uganda among Canadians. She emphasized her excitement in introducing them to what she called a “hidden gem” in global travel.
The expo, which concludes today, has positioned Uganda as a prime tourist destination, leaving visitors with a lasting impression of its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and hospitality.
Thousands Gather at World Travel, Trade, and Taste Expo
The annual World Travel, Trade, and Taste Expo draws thousands of travel operators, hospitality leaders, country representatives, and travel enthusiasts from across Canada and the USA.
This premier event facilitates networking and business-to-business (B2B) engagement through trade forums, investment discussions, global tourism showcases, and international food tastings.
Uganda’s strong presence at this year’s expo was a joint effort by the Uganda High Commission, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, in collaboration with Global Events Canada, a Ugandan-founded event planning agency.
Uganda’s Representation at the Expo
Uganda’s delegation was further distinguished by the participation of Jimmy Kigozi, the acting Commissioner for Tourism Development at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities.
Addressing travel operators, tourism professionals, and attendees, Kigozi encouraged exploration of Uganda, emphasizing its immense tourism potential. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the High Commission’s initiatives in strengthening industry partnerships.
“Tourism plays a crucial role in Uganda’s economy, driving income generation and job creation. Uganda is the right product—now we need the right team, tools, and targets to elevate the sector further,” he stated.
Acknowledging Uganda’s Tourism Growth
Charge’ d’Affaires Amb. Allan Kajik expressed appreciation to President Kaguta Museveni for fostering peace, enabling seamless tourist movement. He also commended the Ministry of Tourism for its relentless efforts in marketing Uganda, calling their work a vital pillar in the High Commission’s initiatives.
“With this being our first event of the year, we look forward to hosting and attending many more, continuing to promote Explore Uganda, the Pearl of Africa,” he declared.
