By Meza Mwanza
Mombasa County, Kenya: In a vibrant celebration of culture and cuisine, over 500 enthusiastic attendees, including local, regional, and international tourists, flocked to the picturesque Diani Reef Beach Resort in Kwale for the inaugural day of Uganda’s Culinary and Cultural Festival.
For four days, the festival extravaganza aims to showcase the rich tapestry of Ugandan heritage and entice both Kenyan and global visitors to explore the treasures of the nation.
Venturing beyond borders, Uganda has orchestrated a series of captivating events at premier coastal destinations, including Diani Reef in Kwale, Ocean Beach in Malindi, Vipingo Ridge in Kilifi, and Fort Jesus in Mombasa.
As the festivities unfold, anticipation mounts for the upcoming golf tournament at Vipingo Ridge, Kilifi County, promising a blend of sporting prowess and cultural immersion.
At the heart of the festival lies a mission to unveil Uganda’s distinctive products to a diverse audience, encompassing corporate Kenya, youth demographics, and regional and international tourists along the Kenyan coast.
Speaking on the burgeoning potential of cross-border tourism between Kenya and Uganda, Uganda’s Consul General in Mombasa, Ambassador Paul Mukumbya, underscored the untapped opportunities awaiting exploration.
“Kenya is the foremost source market for visitors to Uganda, with nearly 500,000 Kenyan tourists gracing our nation’s landscapes last year Uganda ranks as the second-largest source market for visitors to Kenya, with approximately 200,000 Ugandans exploring the charms of the Kenyan coast annually,” remarked Mukumbya
Emphasizing the festival’s strategic focus on engaging Kenya’s corporate community, Mukumbya highlighted the collaborative efforts aimed at fostering mutually beneficial ties.
Amidst the revelry at the Kwale edition, attendees reveled in a captivating showcase of cultural performances, including a mesmerizing two-hour display by the renowned Ndere Troupe and the Ugandan sensation comedian Anne Kansiime.
Kwale Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo reaffirmed the county’s commitment to bolstering tourism offerings in collaboration with Uganda, noting the vast investment prospects in tourism, real estate, agriculture, livestock, and mining.
“Culture serves as a catalyst for socio-economic progress, and Kwale County is steadfast in its support of cultural initiatives,” remarked Kombo, by nurturing traditional arts and performances, we aim to inspire vibrant communities and unlock new avenues for development,” Stated Chirema.
As the Uganda Culinary and Cultural Festival unfolds its vibrant tapestry of traditions and flavors, it beckons travelers on a captivating journey of discovery, fostering enduring bonds between nations and igniting a spirit of cultural exchange and collaboration.
