The Uganda stand at the recently concluded Karibu Tourism and Travel fair held in Arusha between June 3-5th, 2010 was the centre of attraction as hundreds of attendees flocked the stall to learn about the unique attractions offered by Uganda.
The stand which was conspicuously labeled “Uganda the Home of Mountain Gorillas” was located at a strategic point close to the main gate of the Mangereza grounds near Arusha airport. The staff from Uganda Wildlife Authority, the Uganda Tourism Board, Tour Operators like Lake Kitandara and STEBAR and Pearls of Africa project had the opportunity to show case various attractions that Uganda offers including the national parks, culture, the source of the Nile and Kasubi Tombs a world Heritage site.
Decorated by the national colours and banners depicting various wildlife including mountain gorillas and climbing lions, the Uganda stall was also boosted by a cock tail hosted by the Uganda Tourism Board attended by hundreds during which Mr. Edwin Muzahuura the marketing and public relations manager had extra opportunity to market Uganda.
Watching the mountain gorilla trekking videos and the men donning gorilla masks behaving like actual gorillas chest beating, mock charging and picking green leaves for food added more color to the Uganda stall.
The Tanzania deputy minister for Trade and Industry Mr. Lazaros Nyalandu commended Uganda for aggressively marketing Uganda as a tourism destination particularly for mountain gorillas in which it has a comparative advantage. He said many Tanzania tour operators are ready to work with the Uganda counterparts to offer complete packages that will see tourists explore East Africa.
