Mauritian Tour Operators & Influencers Crown Uganda ‘Africa’s Most Beautiful Gem’

Entebbe — The Uganda High Commission in Dar es Salaam has concluded a successful 10-day Mauritius Travel-Trade Familiarisation Mission, showcasing Uganda’s wildlife, culture, hospitality, and investment opportunities to a team of Mauritian tour operators and travel influencers.

Led by Claire Mugabi of the Uganda Tourism Board, the delegation journeyed across the country, experiencing rhino conservation, the power of Murchison Falls, and a once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla encounter in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

While briefing the press at Protea Hotel in Entebbe on Friday, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, Ambassador Col (Rtd) Fred Mwesigye, applauded the mission, emphasising Uganda’s readiness to strengthen Africa-to-Africa tourism partnerships.

“Mauritians are free to come to Uganda without any payment requirements,” he said. “In some countries, visitors pay fees, but for Mauritians, no payment. Uganda is stable, welcoming, and investment-ready.”

We Now Have a Destination We Can Sell to the World

Head of Delegation Ivan Stone described the experience as transformative. “Thank you so much for the opportunity to visit your lovely country. Many of us didn’t know Uganda well before, but now we do,” he said.

“We now have a destination we can confidently sell to clients from across the world—from South Africa, Mauritius, and beyond.”

Stone recalled a memorable wildlife encounter at Murchison Falls National Park: “I even had a huge hippo visit me—I had to wait before entering my room because it was so close. You only realise how big they are when you see them out of the water!”

He compared Murchison Falls to other global wonders: “I’ve been to Victoria Falls, but this is magnificent.”

Delegates Praise Uganda’s Beauty, Wildlife, and Culture

The Mauritian delegation was unanimous: Uganda surpassed expectations.

Delegate 1 marvelled at Uganda’s unique primates: “I have seen the Big Five, but seeing gorillas, chimpanzees, and monkeys in their natural habitat was unbelievable. We can now confidently sell Uganda as a destination.”

Delegate 2 said gorilla tracking was the highlight: “The one-on-one encounter was priceless. Every day, I was amazed at Uganda’s beauty. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

Delegate 3 offered high praise: “Uganda is the most beautiful country in the world. I will do my best to promote it back home.”

Delegate 4 called Uganda an authentic safari hub: “If you’ve never visited, you’re missing out. The real safari is here. We don’t have these animals or such cultural diversity in Mauritius.”

Delegate 5 admired the landscapes: “The panoramic views—so green, so beautiful—will excite my audience of nature and adventure lovers.”

Delegate 6 said Uganda sparked enormous online interest: “People thought my photos were fake! I told them the travel vlogs are coming.”

Delegation Meets Batwa Community in Kisoro

On Day 5, the team flew to Kisoro and visited the Batwa Indigenous Empowerment Organisation (BIEO) on the slopes of Bwindi.

BIEO’s Head, Mr Julius, shared the Batwa’s rich but painful history, once the first inhabitants of the Virunga and Bwindi forests until their 1991 eviction.

He explained the organisation’s mission: promoting education, defending human rights, preserving Batwa culture, and building schools and health centres.

The delegation also visited Rushaga Community School and toured Batwa homes to understand their living conditions. The day ended with an emotional performance of traditional Batwa dances.

Gorilla Tracking: The Ultimate Highlight

Day 6 took the delegation deep into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

They were welcomed by the Rushaga Community Handcraft Women Group before receiving a detailed briefing from ranger Afande Jane, who described Bwindi as: “a global ecosystem where humans, gorillas, and chimpanzees coexist in harmony.” She confirmed that the world’s gorilla population stands at 1,063, with most living in Uganda.

During the trek, Officer Salim educated them about gorilla species, their vegetarian diet, and their 42–45-year lifespan. Each delegate received a gorilla tracking certificate, marking the peak of their Ugandan adventure.

Strengthening Mauritius–Uganda Tourism Diplomacy

The mission dramatically strengthened ties between the two nations, with delegates pledging to promote Uganda aggressively.

Kiira Motors, Uganda Airlines, and the Uganda Tourism Board view Mauritius as a strategic partner for boosting regional connectivity and African tourism circuits.

Representing the Honorary Consul for Mauritius in Uganda, Arthur Nzeyi addressed the visiting delegation, thanking the organisers for their efforts and encouraging the Mauritian tour operators to return and expand tourism between the two nations.

Nzeyi emphasised the goal of fostering greater trade relations and tourism, concluding his remarks by presenting the attendees with a small parting gift described as “a small taste of Uganda.”

“Our purpose is to support greater trade relations and encourage tourism between Uganda and your home country,” he said, adding, “I hope you will take this small parting gift—a small taste of Uganda—as a reminder of your visit.”