The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife & Antiquities joined His Majesty King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV the King of Tooro to launch the annual Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival. The four-day event funded by UNDP will take place between 11-14 November 2021 in Fort Portal with the objective to promote culture, tradition and domestic tourism in Uganda with a focus on the Tooro region. 

Speaking during the launch, King Oyo noted that culture is an enabler and a driver of sustainable development, applauding partners especially UNDP and UNESCO for working with Tooro Kingdom in promoting and preserving culture and heritage.

“I look forward to working with you to highlight culture as an integral part of the success of the sustainable development goals and deepen the understanding of the role of culture as a cross cutting issue in the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development,” King Oyo said.

During the event, the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Ms. Sheila Ngatia pledged UNDP’s support toward the establishment of the Tooro Kingdom Youth ICT and Business Centre, a move that was welcomed by King Oyo.

“I thank the United Nations Development Programme in Uganda for accepting to support the establishment of a fully-fledged ICT Resource Centre and the Tooro Kingdom Youth Centre in Fort Portal,” he added.

UNDP was also recognized by the Kingdom of Tooro for the role played in the promotion of tourism in Uganda. 

Ms. Ngatia applauded King Oyo for dedicating the Empango commemorative activities to the promotion of culture and tourism for local economic development.

“We are honored to be part of this exciting tourism product - Ekyoto Ha Mpango - a cultural festival showcasing Tooro Kingdom’s rich history and cultural heritage, exhibiting innovations that emanate from the wider Rwenzori region, marketing businesses and investment opportunities in the region, and providing a platform to engage in inclusive conversations on the integration of culture and communities in the tourism business ecosystem,” Ms. Ngatia said.

She also applauded the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, under the leadership of Honorable Tom Butiime and the Permanent Secretary Mrs. Doreen Katusiime and her team, for working tirelessly in partnership with the Tooro Kingdom to rebuild the tourism industry, reiterating UNDP’s commitment to strengthened ongoing partnership.

The Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Hon. Tom Butime extended his appreciation to UNDP for catalyzing and incubating Ekyooto Ha Mpango.

“The Ekyooto Ha Mpago is more than a celebration, it will be an opportunity to promote and let the world see the beauty and potential of Tooro. Your Majesty, this is the beginning and our plan to annualize and grow the event from strength-to-strength as it is our vision to transform this event into the most sought-after cultural tourism festival from the Pearl of Africa,” Hon. Butime said.

Supported by UNDP, the annual Ekyooto Ha Mpango Festival will take place between 11-14 November 2021 in Fort Portal with the objective to promote culture, tradition and domestic tourism in Uganda with a focus on the Tooro region.

Festival Features

Royal Tour

Various royals from the kingdoms of Uganda will join His Majesty the King of Tooro on a royal tour

around the Tooro region and the amazing tourism destinations around Fort portal.

Tourism Business Clinics

Engaging virtual master classes in Tourism and Agro-business will be conducted by successful businessmen, tourism industry stakeholders, regulators and motivational speakers.

Ekyooto Ha Empango Cultural Festival

In line with the ancient tradition of fireplace discussions, youth will listen in to meaningful conversation from elders with traditional dances, comedy and poetry performances through the evening. The festival will also include fashion showcases, virtual concert, comedy and more activities.