In an attempt to focus attention on highlighting Uganda as Africa’s leading adventure tourism destination, the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) in partnership with the Tusker Lite Mt. Rwenzori marathon, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and Ministry of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA) have hosted a highly profile media engagement at the UTB offices featuring the British sports broadcaster and commentator Rob Walker.
This effort is part of UTB’s ongoing initiatives to promote the country’s tourism industry, particularly with the upcoming Rwenzori marathon in Kasese on August 23rd.
While addressing the press, Rob Walker noted that events such as Mt. Rwenzori Marathon are a massive showcase of talent and an opportunity for Uganda to tap into the existing global sports recognition, wildlife and more to tell a wholesome story globally.
“Sporting events like the Rwenzori Marathon are powerful magnets for international visitors. They bring athletes and adventure seekers to our landscapes and open new opportunities to market Uganda beyond thewell known wildlife. Adventure tourism is one of the fastest growing travel segments globally, and Uganda is perfectly positioned to lead; from mountain races and gorilla trekking to white-water rafting and cultural immersions,” he noted.
Walker further expressed excitement of having traveled with the family, saying, “I’m very excited for my wife and our son, Arthur to come and see the animals for himself and to understand why it is that once in a while, his crazy old dad decides to go off to Uganda for a couple of weeks and also participate in the marathon.”
During the same engagement, the Executive Director of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Dr. James Musinguzi, alluded to the synergies between the MTWA, UWA and Uganda Tourism Board in showcasing Uganda’s diverse tourism offers during and after the marathon.
As part of this commitment, Uganda Wildlife Authority has offered complimentary entrance to all tourism hotspots within the Rwenzori region to the global influencers and 50% discounts to all marathoners as part of promoting destination Uganda.
“Personally, I will be there. And I invite you all Ugandans come and we showcase our country. Let’s show our visitors love and hospitality so we can promote the resorts. We are promoting healthy living. We are promoting our country. So we are achieving so many milestones at the same time. I wish all runners well, and I invite all of you to come and interact with Rob Walker and all other influencers who are already on the way to experiencing Uganda,” Dr Musinguzi added.
The Chief Executive Officer UTB Juliana Kagwa remarked that the Board will leverage on the influencers’ participation to drive global visibility for both the Rwenzori Marathon and Uganda’s tourism through real time digital storytelling, international media coverage, and behind the scenes content.
“The influencers represent audiences across multiple continents, and their storytelling will showcase the excitement and beauty of Uganda’s adventure offerings,” she added.
The UTB’s CEO also emphasised that such events like the Rwenzori marathon are a platform for young talent, because once these races are globally recognised and allowed, then the country starts to export talents, which is a way for young people to be gainfully employed, and a way for the country to increase foreign domestic investment.
Collins Masiga, the CEO Rwenzori Marathon comfirmed the increase in numbers of runners of this edition and also encouraged the public to continue registering for the marathon.
“If you want to register now, just go to the website. It’s www.rwenzorimarathon.com, follow the prompts, the steps and we’ll get your ticket out of that. Just go with your ticket to the pick-up point. It will be scanned and you’ll get your bib. The bib is important because it’s an international marathon, so everyone is coming, and you get a certificate at the end,” he highlighted.
Masiga, therefore, appreciated both the private and government partners that have supported this initiative, which goes a long way in giving publicity to the country, alongside the numerous benefits individuals benefit from participation.
The influencer lineup includes Rob Walker (UK) – International sports commentator and adventure travel enthusiast, Sean Hammond from the USA, Nicholas Butter from the UK and Angus Maxified from Dubai.
Throughout their journey, the influencers will share their experiences on social media platforms, travel blogs, and video channels, giving their audiences an authentic look at Uganda’s adventure, culture, and hospitality.
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