Summary:
President Museveni further asserted that Uganda is home to original African traditions and cultures.
KAMPALA: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, presided over the screening of “Hidden Uganda,” a documentary by American journalist Peter Greenberg. The film showcases Uganda’s natural beauty and hidden gems.
Speaking at the event held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, President Museveni, accompanied by First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Maama Janet Museveni, emphasized Uganda’s rich natural heritage. He highlighted the country’s favorable climate, diverse attractions, cultural heritage, and abundant flora and fauna.
“Here, there’s no need for air-conditioning. We don’t have to warm or cool the air; we simply enjoy it as it is,” he remarked.
He also spoke about Africa’s vast size, noting, “Africa is a huge continent with 12 million square miles of land—12 times the size of India and four times the size of the United States. Uganda, being centrally located in this vast continent, was one of the last places reached by foreigners. Direct contact with non-Africans only began in 1841 when an Arab named Ibrahim arrived.”
President Museveni further asserted that Uganda is home to original African traditions and cultures.
“The British were here for only 70 years, so much of our culture and wildlife remained preserved. This is an important factor to consider when engaging with the world,” he stated.
He also highlighted Uganda’s unique agricultural and livestock resources, particularly the Ankole cows, which produce yellow fat with lower cholesterol compared to other breeds. “These cows are a gold mine for those seeking healthier beef options,” he added.
Expressing his gratitude, President Museveni thanked Peter Greenberg for showcasing Uganda’s uniqueness to the world. “I appreciate Mr. Greenberg, his team, and Diana for their efforts. Diana, thank you for diversifying from cattle keeping to tourism promotion. I also extend my gratitude to everyone who supported this initiative.”
The President reassured the audience that the government is committed to improving infrastructure to boost tourism. “This film will enhance tourism, but we are also taking additional steps. We are working with investors to construct an international airport in Kidepo, allowing visitors to fly directly to the region. Another international airport is planned for Kanungu to facilitate easier access to tourist destinations.”
Vice President Jessica Alupo commended “Hidden Uganda” for promoting the country’s image globally. She reaffirmed that tourism remains a cornerstone of Uganda’s development, with visitor numbers steadily increasing. She also encouraged Ugandans to actively market their country’s potential.
Diana Museveni Kyaremera, CEO and founder of Age Safaris, praised President Museveni for his deep knowledge of Uganda’s history and suggested that he conduct a tour with Peter Greenberg in the future.
“The President knows every inch of Uganda. There is no better storyteller or historian for Uganda than him,” she said. “A royal tour would give our tourism industry an even greater boost. I hope we can initiate more marketing campaigns like this to further promote Uganda as a prime destination.”
In response, Peter Greenberg expressed his gratitude to President Museveni for attending the event and affirmed his commitment to showcasing Uganda’s beauty through film.
