Arusha, Tanzania — The expansive Magereza grounds in Arusha, Tanzania, came alive with the vibrant rhythms of Uganda’s Crane Performers during Kilifair 2025, East Africa’s premier international tourism trade fair.
This year marked Uganda’s debut participation in the prestigious event, with the Uganda Consulate in Arusha staging an energetic and colourful “Uganda Day” under the theme “Unveiling the Hidden Pearl of Africa.”
Organised in collaboration with the Uganda High Commission in Dar es Salaam, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Uganda Airlines, and the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon, Uganda Day aimed to position the country as a must-visit destination in the regional and global tourism landscape.
Kilifair is one of East Africa’s largest tourism platforms, attracting a wide array of stakeholders across sectors—from safari companies, hotels, and lodges to airlines, tech innovators, and artisans. Uganda’s showcase stood out, offering attendees an unforgettable multi-sensory experience.
Visitors were treated to the exhilarating drumbeats and dances of the Crane Performers, along with a rich sampling of Uganda’s iconic flavours. These included fresh Rolex wraps made on-site, smooth Ugandan Coffee, and the famous Uganda Waragi. The festivities also featured a daring fire-eating act and lively Mountain Gorilla mascots grooving to catchy Ugandan tunes.
Speaking at the event, Consul-General Amb. Anne Katusiime Kageye reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to boosting tourism by working closely with Tanzania and other East African nations. “Our goal is not only to promote Uganda’s beauty but to highlight the power of complementarity. Together, Uganda and Tanzania can offer travellers a seamless, unforgettable regional experience,” she said.
Amb. Kageye also invited participants to register for the Rwenzori Activation Run set for 8th June 2025—a lead-up to the 4th edition of the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon scheduled for 23rd August in Kasese. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its diplomatic missions, continues to support the marathon’s international recognition and appeal.
Amb. Richard Kabonero, Head of the Regional Economic Cooperation department, lauded East African Community countries for sharing a united pavilion at the fair, reflecting strong regional collaboration. He urged tour operators to forge cross-border partnerships and develop package add-ons that encourage tourists to explore the entire East African region.
Mr Amos Wekesa, Rwenzori Marathon Chairman and CEO of Great Lakes Safaris, commended the Uganda Consulate in Arusha and the High Commission in Dar es Salaam for their dynamic role in promoting Uganda. “Uganda’s embassies are doing an incredible job in showcasing our tourism potential. Their support is vital to building global visibility,” he noted.
Ms. Lucy Ismail, Uganda Airlines’ Country Manager, engaged the crowd with a lively quiz on the airline’s routes within Tanzania and beyond. Lucky winners received promotional gifts, adding an element of fun and excitement to the day.
Young conservationist Talia Birungi, the 2nd Queen Little Miss Wildlife and Little Hands Go Green Ambassador captivated the audience with an impassioned speech on wildlife sustainability, highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship for future generations.
The day’s most anticipated moment was the raffle draw, which saw four lucky winners receive gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits courtesy of UWA. Additional prizes included complimentary stays at top eco-lodges: Crystal Lodge-Nkuringo, Nkuringo Gorilla Lodges in Bwindi, and Crater Safari Lodge.
The day’s activities concluded with a networking gala dinner hosted at the Uganda Consulate, bringing together tourism professionals, diplomats, and business leaders to foster stronger ties and promote regional tourism.
