travel 3 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

European Influencers Boost Northern Uganda Tourism Through Culinary and Cultural Showcase

A group of European journalists and influencers recently explored northern Uganda, experiencing its rich culture, cuisine, and wildlife as part of a campaign to attract more visitors from European markets. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/travel/european-influencers-explore-northern-uganda-in-tourism-promotion-campaign-5484192

A delegation of five European media personalities, including influencers and culinary storytellers, embarked on a week-long familiarization tour of northern Uganda from May 23 to May 29, 2026. Organized by the Ugandan Embassy in Paris in collaboration with TANKE Creative Influence Agency, the trip aimed to highlight Uganda’s unique heritage, gastronomy, and natural attractions to potential tourists in Europe.

The influencers traversed Lake Kyoga, experiencing traditional music and dance performances in Amolatar District. They engaged with local communities, learned about traditional food preparation, and participated in cooking sessions, notably preparing millet porridge. A visit to the home of Uganda’s Ambassador to France, Spain, and Portugal, Doreen Ruth Amule, provided further insight into local culinary practices.

In Lira City, the group explored the local market, sourced ingredients, and participated in a cooking demonstration guided by local chefs, culminating in a shared meal. The tour also included adventurous activities such as sport-fishing and a boat cruise on the Victoria Nile, followed by wildlife viewing in Murchison Falls National Park.

Ambassador Amule emphasized the role of tourism diplomacy, noting a significant increase in visitor numbers from her accredited countries since 2024, attributing this growth to strategic promotional efforts. The embassy has seen tourist arrivals from France, Spain, and Portugal rise from approximately 3,500 to over 7,400, with a new target of 10,000 visitors.

The trip also visited historical sites, including the capture location of Kabaka Mwanga and Omukama Kabalega. Ertan Anadol, CEO of TANKE Creative Influence Agency, highlighted the power of digital platforms and social media in modern tourism promotion, with each campaign reaching millions of online followers. He also pointed out the growing European interest in sustainable and conservation-focused travel destinations.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy by Ugandan diplomatic missions to enhance the country’s international profile as a premier tourist destination. For more details, see the Daily Monitor.