Uganda’s growing reputation as a top tourism destination took center stage at a high-profile conference hosted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The Roosevelt Africa Trail and the Rwenzori Marathon were highlighted as groundbreaking examples of how Africa can redefine travel, sports, and storytelling. The event, organized by the MIT Sloan Africa Business Club, brought together experts, athletes, and innovators to discuss the future of eco-tourism and heritage preservation.

The Roosevelt Africa Trail, inspired by former US President Theodore Roosevelt’s 1909–1910 expedition, retraces parts of his historic journey through Uganda. Stretching from Murchison Falls National Park to Lake Victoria, the trail is more than just a tourist attraction—it is a bridge connecting history, culture, and nature. Conference organizers described it as a visionary project that links people, places, and the past while promoting eco-tourism and supporting local communities.

Another standout feature of the event was the Rwenzori Marathon, a unique endurance race that crosses the equator and offers runners a rare high-altitude challenge. Unlike traditional marathons, this event combines sport with adventure, taking participants through some of Uganda’s most breathtaking landscapes. A special panel discussion titled “Tech Synergies in Global Marathons: Boston & Rwenzori” explored how sports tourism can transform Africa’s travel industry. The session featured insights from John Korir, the 2025 Boston Marathon winner, and elite coach Ron Mann, who praised the marathon’s potential to attract global runners and adventure seekers.

The discussion also highlighted how events like the Rwenzori Marathon can position Uganda as a destination for transformative travel experiences. While the marathon’s success was celebrated, panelists noted that African nations have even greater opportunities to blend sports, innovation, and cultural storytelling into their tourism strategies. The goal is not just to attract visitors but to create lasting connections between travelers and the places they explore.

Adding to the excitement, endurance athlete and digital influencer Matt Choi joined the conference virtually to announce his participation in the upcoming Rwenzori Marathon. He spoke about how running can foster global connections and bring attention to Africa’s hidden treasures. His message reinforced the idea that sports have the power to transcend borders and introduce new audiences to the continent’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Uganda’s story was further amplified through the screening of Born to Run: Kapchorwa to the World, a documentary showcasing the country’s legacy in long-distance running. The film was followed by a panel on tourism and cultural preservation, featuring experts like Taylor Jean-Jacques of NABU, Adrian Braka of Roosevelt Africa Safari Coffee, and Benon Kayemba from Uganda’s Embassy in Washington. They discussed how initiatives in heritage coffee, diaspora engagement, and digital storytelling are helping Uganda share its narrative with the world.

The conference’s keynote speaker, MIT researcher Rus Gant, delved into the role of technology in shaping the future of tourism. He explained how tools like extended reality (XR) and artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize travel experiences—from virtual trails to AI-powered cultural guides. Gant emphasized that these innovations could help Africa preserve its heritage while creating exciting new opportunities for visitors.

As the event concluded, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, delivered closing remarks praising Africa’s youth, tech talent, and diaspora communities for driving a new era of tourism on the continent. She highlighted the importance of homegrown initiatives in shaping Africa’s global image and economic future.

To cap off the conference on a thrilling note, one lucky attendee won an all-expenses-paid trip to Uganda, including entry into the 2025 Rwenzori Marathon and a gorilla trekking expedition in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This prize not only celebrated Uganda’s natural wonders but also encouraged more people to experience the country’s unique offerings firsthand.

With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and innovative tourism projects, Uganda is steadily carving out a place on the global stage. The recognition at MIT’s conference is just the beginning—as more travelers and adventurers discover its parks, peaks, and people, Uganda’s story is set to inspire the world.