The Uganda High Commission in Ottawa, Canada, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA), the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), and private sector stakeholders, has launched a Familiarisation Trip to Uganda for leading Canadian tour operators, media influencers, and travel agents from April 9 to 18, 2026.
A delegation of 14 senior executives from prominent Canadian tourism and travel companies arrived at Entebbe International Airport on April 8, 2026, marking the start of the high-level visit.
The delegation was received by Uganda’s High Commissioner to Canada, Ambassador Allan Kajik, Mr. Jimmy Kigozi, Commissioner at MTWA, as well as senior officials from MOFA and UTB.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Kajik highlighted the strategic importance of the initiative in enhancing Uganda’s visibility and competitiveness within the Canadian tourism market. He noted that the trip is designed to provide first-hand experience of Uganda’s diverse tourism offerings.
The Familiarisation Trip will showcase Uganda’s key attractions, including wildlife, culture, nature, and adventure tourism, with particular emphasis on community-based tourism and conservation initiatives that strongly appeal to Canadian travellers.
Ms. Agnes Birungi, Head of Economic and Commercial Diplomacy (ECD) at the High Commission, expressed optimism about the visit, describing Uganda as a unique destination rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. She noted that the country offers immersive tourism experiences that align well with the preferences of Canadian visitors.
During their stay, the delegation will participate in business-to-business (B2B) engagements with Ugandan tour operators, government agencies, and other stakeholders aimed at positioning Uganda as a leading destination for Canadian travellers. The itinerary includes visits to major tourist sites such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the Source of the Nile in Jinja.
Ms. Margaret Kafeero, Head of Public Diplomacy at MOFA, expressed confidence that the Familiarisation Trip will not only showcase Uganda’s tourism potential but also stimulate sector growth by fostering long-term partnerships and collaborations.
Tourist arrivals from Canada to Uganda have steadily increased, rising from 7,542 in 2022 to 9,688 in 2024, representing a 28 percent growth. Ambassador Kajik reaffirmed the High Commission’s commitment to building on this progress, with a target of attracting over 20,000 Canadian visitors annually by 2028.
Mr. Jimmy Kigozi of MTWA noted that Canada remains a key source market, given the tendency of Canadian tourists to opt for high-value experiences and longer stays, which significantly contribute to tourism revenues.
The familiarisation trip is expected to boost awareness and confidence among Canadian travel industry players, support the development of tailored tour packages, and strengthen Uganda’s tourism brand in Canada and the wider North American market.
