Page 49 - NewsletterQuarter2

internationally. She urged collaboration among UTB Engages Nigerian
tourism industry players and called for increased
government support to bolster the industry's
growth. The need for recognition and support of Media with Explore
tour operators, who connect various facets of the
tourism sector, such as airlines, resorts, tour sites,
and destinations, was a central theme of Udo's Uganda Roundtable
address.
Udo passionately stressed the importance of
reframing the narrative around the tourism n July 11, 2023, the Uganda between Uganda and Nigeria.
sector's economic contributions. She advocated Tourism Board (UTB) through The "Explore Uganda" roundtable con-
for stronger government involvement, increased its MDR conducted a signifi- cluded with an interactive question-and-an-
partnerships, and enhanced revenue generation in cant event in Lagos, Nigeria, swer segment, allowing participants to en-
the tourism sector. By placing tourism as a prior- Ocalled the "Explore Uganda" gage and seek deeper insights into Uganda's
ity, governments can facilitate the growth of tour roundtable. The session was designed to in- tourism potential. Subsequently, interviews
operators, which, in turn, contributes to national troduce nigerian media professionals to the were conducted, giving Nigerian media a
economic development. captivating offerings of "The Pearl of Africa." chance to gain first-hand knowledge and
During the Annual General Meeting, there was Esteemed media representatives from information about Uganda's diverse tourist
a resounding call for the establishment of a dedi- leading Nigerian media houses, offerings.
cated Ministry of Tourism in Nigeria. Udo empha- including AIT, BEAT FM, CHAN- To further strengthen cama-
sized that Nigeria is rich in tourism potential and NELS TV, INO FM, THISDAY, raderie and express gratitude
opportunities for economic benefit, thanks to its SILVERBIRD TV, and THE for the interaction, the UTB
diverse range of resources. With a dedicated min- GUARDIAN, attended this This competition serves as hosted a delightful dinner
istry, the government can provide the necessary event. The delegation from a platform for talented travel at the Safron Hotel in Ikeja,
infrastructure, policies, and support to unleash the the Uganda Tourism Board, writers to hone their craft while Lagos. This informal gather-
illuminating the unspoiled
full potential of the tourism industry. led by Anthony Ochieng, geographic beauty of ing provided a platform for
Beyond discussions, the conference also cele- presented an engaging and Uganda. networking and discussions
brated the rich and diverse aspects of Nigerian informative session. They show- on potential collaborations and
culture, underscoring the nation's potential as a cased Uganda's unique attractions future initiatives between Uganda
captivating tourist destination. NATOP's Annual and experiences, highlighting what the and Nigeria.
General Meeting served as an important platform country has to offer nigerian tourists and The Uganda Tourism Board's engage-
to strengthen collaborations between Uganda and tour operators. ment with Nigerian media was a signifi-
Nigeria, foster bilateral tourism ties, and promote The presentation went beyond introduc- cant milestone in promoting bilateral ties,
the growth of the tourism sector in both countries. ing Uganda's tourist destinations; it also ex- showcasing Uganda as a desirable tourist
Such engagements are vital for economic devel- plained the UTB's mandate and objectives, destination in Nigeria, and fostering cul-
opment, cultural exchange, and the realization of emphasizing the commitment to foster tural exchange and mutual understanding
Africa's tourism potential. tourism growth and promote collaboration between the two vibrant African nations.