The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has successfully organized and hosted a group of incentive buyers on a familiarization trip to Uganda, with a strong focus on enhancing business events within the country.
Comprising nine incentive buyers from markets including the USA, Europe, and countries in the Asia-Pacific region, the team was hosted from the 22nd to the 28th of October 2023. The Incentive category of tour operators specifically targets high-end business-class clients who frequently visit destinations in sizeable delegations, engaging in meetings, team-building exercises, and networking activities.
During their visit, the incentive buyers assessed various accommodation facilities to gauge their capacity to host substantial numbers. They immersed themselves in Uganda’s rich cultural heritage by visiting local communities and partaking in diverse traditional dances.
Additionally, they explored the wildlife and natural wonders in Queen Elizabeth National Park, enjoying activities such as a boat cruise and gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
The delegation also participated in a networking evening aimed at connecting with local tourism stakeholders, Meetings Incentives Conferences and Events (MICE) professionals, and government representatives. This was intended to establish partnerships for future business prospects within the country.
Lilly Ajarova, CEO of UTB, emphasized the necessity for private-sector tourism entities to establish business connections with incentive buyers to foster local trade partnerships. “The Board is dedicated to the continual development of the MICE industry,” she remarked. “Through these collaborations, we aim to position Uganda as a destination that attracts international conferences and business travellers, offering them the opportunity to experience the beauty and diversity of our country. Increasing the number of trade partners promoting Uganda in source markets is vital to raise awareness of Uganda as a MICE destination.”
Expressing their enthusiasm about the opportunity to conduct business in Uganda, incentive buyers, such as Deveikaite Brigita from the UK, were impressed by the country’s wide array of wildlife, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. “The experiences I’ve encountered here, from assessing meeting venues to cultural interactions and wildlife encounters, have been truly exceptional. I aim to bring numerous groups for business engagements because this country is undeniably remarkable,” said Brigita.
In the MICE tourism industry, familiarization trips serve as a crucial tool for incentive buyers, allowing them to gather essential information about host countries and decide on the ideal location for their events.
These trips involve visiting various venues to assess their technical suitability for hosting conferences, conventions, or incentive travel programs.