By Joseph Mary Buwule
OTTAWA, CANADA – The Uganda High Commission in Ottawa has unveiled a Destination Uganda branded double-decker bus as part of a major tourism promotion campaign aimed at increasing Uganda’s visibility in the Canadian market and attracting more international visitors.
The launch event, held on June 1, 2026, at the Infinity Convention Centre in Ottawa, brought together representatives from Global Affairs Canada, members of the tourism and media fraternity, the Ugandan diaspora, and various project partners.
The eye-catching bus, wrapped in vibrant images showcasing Uganda’s iconic mountain gorillas, diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and the renowned Rwenzori Marathon, began operating on Ottawa’s roads immediately after its unveiling. The vehicle will travel daily through some of the city’s most frequented locations, including Parliament Hill, ByWard Market, the National Gallery of Canada, and major hotel districts.
According to the Uganda High Commission, the campaign will run from June to October 2026 and is expected to generate between one and two million impressions, significantly enhancing awareness of Uganda as a premier tourism destination.
Speaking during the launch, Peter Kallule Kajik, the Charge d’Affaires of the Uganda High Commission in Ottawa, expressed appreciation to all stakeholders who supported the initiative.
He emphasized that the branded bus represents more than just a means of transportation.
“This bus is not just a medium of transport; it carries the story and experience of Destination Uganda,” he said, urging everyone present to become ambassadors of Uganda’s beauty, culture, and tourism potential.
The colourful event also showcased Uganda’s rich cultural heritage through traditional dance performances and culinary experiences. Guests were treated to the famous Ugandan Rolex, which proved to be a popular attraction among attendees.
The initiative forms part of Uganda’s broader tourism promotion strategy aimed at increasing global awareness of the country’s attractions, attracting long-haul travelers, and strengthening Uganda’s presence in key international tourism markets.
Uganda continues to position itself as one of Africa’s leading tourism destinations, offering visitors unique experiences ranging from gorilla trekking and wildlife safaris to adventure tourism, cultural encounters, and sporting events such as the Rwenzori Marathon.
The Ottawa campaign is expected to further enhance Uganda’s profile in North America and contribute to the growth of the country’s tourism sector by inspiring more Canadians and international travelers to explore the Pearl of Africa.