Uganda Takes Center Stage on French TV with “Échappées Belles” Feature
Paris, France — In a major move to bolster its international tourism appeal, the Republic of Uganda has officially unveiled a dedicated documentary feature on the popular French adventure series Échappées Belles (Great Escapes).
The documentary, which was celebrated at a high-profile premiere in Paris on April 16, 2026, is currently anchoring a month-long feature on Uganda. Following its national broadcast debut on Saturday, April 25, the episode is airing on France 5 Television, reaching millions of viewers across the French-speaking world.
A Strategic Push for “Soft Power”
The feature is a cornerstone of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Economic and Commercial Diplomacy Program. Sponsored by the Uganda Embassy in Paris, the initiative aims to enhance destination visibility and credibility within the competitive European market.
Ambassador Doreen Amule, Uganda’s representative to France, hosted the premiere event at the prestigious La Marina Des Maquereaux. Addressing an audience of tour operators, journalists, and strategic stakeholders, she emphasized the country’s unique position in the global travel landscape.
“Europe has long explored the world, but we believe the world’s best-kept secret is waiting for French travelers in Uganda,” Ambassador Amule stated.
Showcasing the “Pearl of Africa”
Hosted by the renowned Ismaël Khelifa, the episode follows a comprehensive 11-day safari itinerary. The production captures the “hidden gem” philosophy of the show by exploring lesser-known spots alongside iconic attractions. Key highlights include:
- Gorilla Trekking: High-impact encounters in Uganda’s dense national parks.
- Diverse Wildlife: Classic game drives showcasing the country’s abundant biodiversity.
- Authentic Culture: Immersive experiences that allow viewers to see the landscape through a local lens.
Khelifa described his experience shooting on location as a revelation, calling Uganda a “true treasure” defined by its “incredibly warm people, exceptional nature, and abundant wildlife.”
Understanding the Source Market
The strategy behind the broadcast is rooted in consumer behavior data. Margaret Kafeero, Head of Public Diplomacy, noted that 80% of French people make travel decisions based on television content.
“It is therefore laudable that the Uganda Embassy in Paris is responsive to French culture and is customizing content for the channels through which they consume information,” Kafeero said.
Daniel Irunga, Senior Brand Manager at the Uganda Tourism Board, added that the Premiere served to “convert awareness into action,” inspiring French travel buyers to include Uganda in their official portfolios. By projecting a premium image and meeting international standards, Uganda looks to secure its spot as a top-tier destination for French adventurers.
