The Uganda High Commission delivered an exceptional showcase at the World Travel, Trade and Taste Expo 2025, held from May 30th to 31st at the Toronto Metro Convention Centre.
Led by Ambassador Allan Kajik, the High Commission attracted hundreds of travel operators, tourists, and members of the general public to the Ugandan booth.
Branded under the theme “Explore Uganda”, the exhibition provided a vibrant and immersive glimpse into the East African nation. One of the standout attractions was the complimentary tasting of freshly brewed organic Ugandan coffee, which, along with free giveaways of roasted coffee beans, created a continuous stream of visitors to the booth.
A large LCD screen highlighted Uganda’s breathtaking travel destinations, captivating guests and inspiring travel plans. “I have never heard of Uganda before; I surely will have to add it to my travel plan this year,” said one visibly impressed tourist.
Adding to the booth’s popularity were free samples of the renowned Uganda Waragi, courtesy of the Uganda High Commission, as well as handmade wristbands that served as tangible and lasting reminders to consider Uganda as a travel destination.
Agnes Birungi, an embassy staff member dressed in a stunning blue traditional Gomesi, expressed her surprise at the limited awareness about Uganda among Canadians.
She emphasized her passion for introducing them to what she described as a “totally new travel destination.”
Lilian Amaro, the Immigration Attaché at the High Commission, engaged directly with tourists, explaining the visa application process.
She highlighted the East African Tourist Visa, which allows visitors to travel seamlessly between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya—an added value for tourists looking to explore the region.
Adding an extra touch of charm was Janet Anzoa, the reigning Miss Tourism Commonwealth Africa and a proud Ugandan-Canadian.
Her warm smile and engaging pitches about Uganda’s natural beauty helped reinforce the country’s branding as the “Pearl of Africa.”
The annual World Travel, Trade and Taste Expo draws thousands of travel operators, hospitality leaders, international delegates, and travel enthusiasts from across Canada and the USA.
It serves as a premier platform for networking and business-to-business interactions through trade forums, investment opportunities, destination showcases, and global food tastings.
Uganda’s strong showing this year was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Uganda High Commission, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, and Global Events Canada—a Ugandan-founded event planning agency.
Several private Ugandan travel operators also joined the exhibition. Ether Birungi, CEO of Churchill Safaris and Travel Ltd, flew in from Uganda to showcase her services.
Recognizing the expo as a strategic platform for global exposure, she emphasized the opportunity to educate an audience previously unfamiliar with Uganda.
She was pleased to have formed a partnership with a Toronto-based agent on the first day of the event. Similarly, Natasha Kamusiime, CEO of 7O7 Safaris, presented compelling visual displays of Uganda’s diverse travel destinations.
The Ugandan delegation’s participation was further elevated by the presence of Mr. Jimmy Kigozi, Acting Commissioner for Tourism Development at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities.
Addressing the crowd of travel professionals and the public, Mr. Kigozi encouraged them to visit Uganda, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to supporting the High Commission in developing tourism synergies.
He highlighted the sector’s economic importance, stating,
“Tourism plays a vital role in Uganda’s economy, generating income and supporting job creation. With Uganda being the right product, we now need the right team, the right tools, and the right targets to elevate Uganda’s tourism sector.”
Speaking to the media, Chargé d’Affaires Ambassador Allan Kajik expressed deep gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for establishing peace in Uganda, which has enabled the free movement of tourists.
He also commended the Ministry of Tourism for their steadfast efforts in promoting the nation, describing them as a vital catalyst for the High Commission’s initiatives.
“This being our first event of the year, we look forward to hosting and participating in many more, spreading the gospel of Explore Uganda, the Pearl of Africa,” he said.
The World Travel, Trade and Taste Expo concludes today Saturday, May 31, 2025, with the closing ceremony set to be officiated by the Mayor of the City of Toronto.