STATE MINISTER UTB LAUNCHES EXPLORE ELGON CAMPAIGN
Hon. Martin Magara Bahinduka the state minister UTB launches the explore Elgon campaign in the Christmas season of 2022 to unveil domestic tourism from the 20th to 23rd of December. The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities aim at showcasing and promoting the unique attractions in the Elgon Region while inspiring Ugandans to travel during this year’s Festive Season.
“We preferred to start with the Elgon region for it hasn’t received the much recognition it deserves yet it’s one of the most endowed sub-regions of Uganda.” Hon. Martin said.
He continuously added that it is their responsibility of marketing Uganda and it is the responsibility of every Ugandan, we call upon all Ugandans to join us in this campaign, and we shall try to provide transport and encourage those who can travel privately to join them.
Minister Godfrey Kiwanda’s role in championing said that the domestic tourism campaign ‘Tulambule’ was the first campaign since the coronavirus attack in Uganda.
” We are currently one of the first post covid 19 recovery countries, the tourism numbers are positive and we are positive that during this festive season, the numbers will be close to what it was like before the covid 19 era, the domestic tourism growth rate currently is at 51.5% “ he added.
To have a sustainable tourism sector, the Minister encouraged Ugandans to embrace exploring Uganda
Celebrities and Ugandans were credited for participating in the campaign.
The campaign is credited by celebrities like Amos Wekesa the director of Great Lakes, Karungi Sheebah, Madrat, and Chiko the top comedians, Moses Golola the kickboxer, miss Tourism, and over 300 Ugandans.
The campaign was joined by Mr. Stephen Masaba the Marketing director of Uganda Wildlife Authority who talked about tourism endowments in the Elgon region.
“Mt Elgon is both a forest and Mountain park endowered with beautiful nature including wild animals like elephants, buffalos and monkeys. He says one needs upto 3 days to climb up to wagagai the toppest point of Mount Elgon and there is a provision of accommodation facilities.”
Deputy CEO Bradford Ochieng of Uganda Tourism heightened 5As as one of the tourism developments and these include Accessible, Attractive, Accommodation, Amenities and activities.
CEO Bradford Ochieng said that for tourism to be promoted in Uganda, Ugandans should embrace and share proceeds equally.
“Uganda’s tourism sector as having the potential to address Uganda’s debt burden adding that this domestic campaign has the potential to attract foreign tourists.” Amos Wekesa of Uganda Lodges proprietor described
He added saying that domestic tourism of Exploring Elgon not only distributes wealth but also encourages Ugandans to be proud of their country.
Moses Golola the kickboxer celebrity was offered a jar of Porridge to energize Explore Elgon activities like hiking wanale Hill, planting trees, painting zebra crossing on Mbale main street and visiting Sipi three trails, abseiling, caving and cultural experiences in Mbale city.
About Mount Elgon
Mount Elgon lies in the Eastern part of Uganda in the Mbale district. It is a prominent volcanic mountain with the highest peak of about 4321 meters above sea level and known for having a thousand falls on it. Mt Elgon peak gives a spectacular view of the slopes and neighboring Kenyan mountains. According to geologists, with an estimated age of 24 million years, the mountain is one of the oldest extinct volcanoes in East Africa however it has five outstanding peaks, including Wagagai, Sudek, Koitobos, Mubiyi, and Masaba.
Despite the fact that Mt Elgon lies in a heart of Mt Elgon national park, various activities can be done and these including climbing Mt. Elgon, enjoying community tours, viewing the lovely waterfalls, and abseiling down Sipi Falls.
