By Joseph Mary Buwule
An Ethiopian delegation visiting Uganda has continued to experience the country’s rich tourism and cultural heritage with a memorable encounter at the famous Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where the visitors came face to face with one of Africa’s iconic Big Five animals.
According to Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the delegation began the day by exploring some of Uganda’s most treasured spiritual and historical sites including the Kasubi Tombs, Namugongo Martyrs Shrine and the Source of the Nile before travelling north to the rhino sanctuary.
The Ministry described the experience as a powerful blend of history, spirituality and wildlife, noting that “ancient civilization and ancient wildlife walked side by side” during the journey through Uganda’s tourism attractions.
At Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the delegation witnessed rhinos in their natural habitat, with the animals appearing almost “on appointment” to welcome the guests into what Uganda proudly brands as the Pearl of Africa.
The visit highlighted Uganda’s remarkable wildlife conservation success story, particularly the return of rhinos after decades of extinction in the wild due to poaching and insecurity. Today, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary remains the only place in Uganda where rhinos can be tracked on foot in the wild.
The familiarization trip, held under the hashtag #UgandaEthiopiaFamtrip, is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen tourism promotion and African diplomacy while showcasing Uganda’s unique attractions to international partners ahead of the upcoming Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo 2026.
Uganda continues to position itself as a leading tourism destination in Africa through its combination of cultural heritage, wildlife diversity, natural beauty and warm hospitality.