Museveni Urges Emirates Airlines to Promote Uganda’s Unique Tourism Wonders

President Yoweri Museveni has urged Emirates Airlines to use its vast global network to showcase Uganda’s exceptional tourism potential to the world. He made the appeal during a high-level meeting with an Emirates Airlines delegation on January 21, 2025, at State House, Entebbe.

The delegation, led by Emirates Country Manager for Uganda, Mohamed Ahmed Taher, is on a mission to explore Uganda’s top tourist destinations for international marketing. Their visit coincides with Emirates Airlines’ 25th anniversary of operations in Uganda, marking a key moment in strengthening tourism partnerships between Uganda and the airline.

President Museveni emphasized Uganda’s distinct advantages, including its unique climate and rich biodiversity, as major attractions for global tourists. “Only a few countries in the world have a special climate because of their altitude and location on the Equator—Uganda is one of them,” he stated. “Some areas are over 1,000 meters above sea level, while others reach more than 5,000 meters and even have permanent snow. The only other country with similar conditions is Ecuador in South America.”

Responding to questions from the delegation, Museveni explained why Uganda produces some of the world’s best coffee. He attributed the superior quality to the country’s equatorial climate, which supports organic farming of coffee and fruits like pineapples. “I visited Washington, and they served pineapples that tasted very sour. But Uganda has the sweetest pineapples. If you want great food and a great climate, you’re in the right place,” he assured the Emirates officials.

The President invited the team to visit Uganda’s national parks, including Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to mountain gorillas, and Murchison Falls National Park, famous for its breathtaking waterfall and abundant wildlife. He also emphasized the need to promote Uganda’s organic agricultural products, especially its renowned coffee and tropical fruits.

Museveni expressed confidence that Emirates Airlines’ global influence could transform Uganda’s tourism sector by attracting millions of travelers eager for authentic cultural and natural experiences. He challenged the delegation to ensure Uganda’s pristine landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultural heritage receive worldwide recognition.

The Emirates team included officials from Vietnam, Indonesia, Taiwan, India, Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, and the United Kingdom, reflecting a growing international interest in Uganda’s tourism sector.

Concluding his remarks, President Museveni warmly welcomed the delegation to Uganda and encouraged them to explore the country’s beauty firsthand. “Go out, experience Uganda’s wonders, and share our story with the world,” he said.

Such an event is poised to generate more robust publicity through showcasing Uganda as one of the global world heritage tourism destinations. Present in this were the junior to the ministerial levels led by Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities Martin Mugarra, Permanent Secretary for Tourism Doreen Katusiime, Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Lilly Ajarova and the Ugandan ambassador to UAE, Zaake Kibedi.