Ghana delegates pose for a group photo at UTB offices

President Pledges Support as Ghana Leads Trans Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign

The Trans Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign is making waves across the continent, and its latest visit to Uganda was marked by a historic pledge of support from the President. Reinforcing the mission to advance a visa-free Africa. Launched under the leadership of Hon. Ras Mubarak, a respected journalist and former Ghanaian Member of Parliament. 

The Trans Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign is a bold, continent-spanning initiative designed to bring Africans closer together through tourism, cultural exchange, and economic integration. Over 163 days, the campaign will traverse 39 countries, engaging governments, communities, and media partners to promote seamless travel and unlock Africa’s rich tourism potential.

The journey is not just about moving from one country to another. It is about creating moments of connection, dialogue, and discovery. The Ghanaian delegation, comprising seven campaigners, four media personnel, and three drivers. Is dedicated to highlighting how tourism can be a catalyst for unity and development. Under the Trans Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign. 

With backing from the Government of Ghana and partnerships with leading media organizations. The campaign has been carefully crafted to ensure that every stop along the way becomes both a story and a step toward policy change.

Arrival in Uganda and Cultural Immersion

When the delegation arrived in Kampala on the evening of November 15, 2025, the atmosphere was one of anticipation and excitement. Local officials, representatives from the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), and members of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA) were on hand to welcome them, signaling Uganda’s commitment to the goals of the Trans African Tourism Campaign.

The following day, the team was treated to a cultural dinner at the Ndere Cultural Centre, an iconic hub that brings together music, dance, and storytelling from across Uganda. For the visitors, it was an opportunity to experience firsthand the vibrancy and diversity of Uganda’s culture. As drums reverberated and dancers moved in intricate patterns, the Ghanaian delegation saw a reflection of the campaign’s broader vision. A continent united by shared experiences and mutual appreciation.

As drums reverberated and dancers moved in intricate patterns

Presidential Backing Strengthens Campaign Momentum

By November 18, the delegation shifted gears from cultural experiences to policy engagement. The highlight of the visit came when the delegation met His Excellency the President of Uganda at the Mayuge State Lodge. During the high-level discussions, the President praised the Trans Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign for its vision of a continent where Africans can move freely, exchange ideas, and collaborate without bureaucratic barriers. His pledge of support was a significant milestone for the campaign, signaling Uganda’s readiness to align national priorities with continental ambitions.

The delegation met His Excellency the President of Uganda at the Mayuge State Lodge

After the fruitful diplomatic engagement, wheels turned towards the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities boardroom. Where the Ghanaian delegates met with Hon. Tom Butime, the Minister, alongside the Permanent Secretary, officials from UTB, and the Uganda Tourism Association. Discussions focused on the campaign’s key priorities. Visa-free travel for Africans, tourism as a driver of economic growth, and regional integration. 

The Minister reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to collaborate with key institutions, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs. To advance the discussions initiated the previous evening, promising to guide the proposals toward parliamentary consideration.

Ghanaian delegates met with Hon. Tom Butime, the Minister, alongside the Permanent Secretary

After a lot of policy and decision making, the delegation ventured to the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) for a behind-the-scenes experience. A good way to soothe off the brain wracking sessions. Unlike a typical visit, this immersive opportunity allowed the team to interact directly with the animals, feeding, touching, and playing with them under the supervision of UWEC staff. 

The experience offered a tangible connection to Uganda’s tourism potential, demonstrating how wildlife conservation and visitor engagement can create economic opportunities while fostering appreciation for the continent’s natural heritage.

the delegation ventured to the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) for a behind-the-scenes experience

Blending Culture, Tourism, and Diplomacy

What made the visit remarkable was the seamless way advocacy and cultural experiences intertwined. The delegation’s time in Uganda was a masterclass in storytelling: high-level meetings flowed naturally into moments of cultural immersion, which in turn highlighted tourism’s role as an economic and social driver. 

The campaign’s message was amplified through local and continental media, ensuring that communities, policymakers, and the public at large understood not only the policy implications but also the human and cultural dimensions of the initiative.

A Model for Continental Collaboration

By the time the delegation departed on November 19, Uganda had demonstrated not only hospitality but active engagement. The visit illustrated that the goals of the Trans Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign. Visa-free travel, cultural unity, and economic growth, are achievable when governments, communities, and civil society come together. 

It set a benchmark for the campaign as it continues its journey across Africa, showing that meaningful collaboration requires both strategic dialogue and immersive experiences that resonate with people on a personal level.

The Trans Africa Tourism and Unity Campaign continues to chart a path across the continent, blending advocacy, storytelling. And first-hand experiences in a way that few initiatives have achieved. Each stop tells a story of potential, partnership, and shared vision. 

Uganda’s chapter demonstrates that with the right mix of leadership, cultural appreciation, and policy engagement, Africa can move closer to a future where movement is fluid, tourism thrives, and connections are strengthened.

By Nakasanje Jannat