Uganda Makes Historic Debut at TurkmenTravel Expo 2026
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan — In a landmark move for African diplomacy and tourism, Uganda has emerged as a standout participant at the International Tourism Exhibition and Conference “TurkmenTravel 2026.” Currently underway in the capital city of Ashgabat, the event marks the first time Uganda has showcased its tourism potential on this specific Central Asian platform.
Notably, Uganda holds the distinction of being the only African nation represented at the Expo, a strategic milestone in the country’s mission to diversify its international outreach and tap into burgeoning new markets.
High-Level Representation and Diplomacy
The Ugandan delegation is led by Mr. Geoffrey Sseremba, Under Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, supported by a professional team of Ugandan tour operators. The diplomatic effort is further bolstered by Ambassador Twaha Matata, the Chargé d’Affaires of the Uganda Embassy in Tehran (accredited to Turkmenistan), who emphasized that the Pearl of Africa is ready to welcome visitors from the region.
“Uganda is open to tourists from Turkmenistan and the region. Uganda has rich tourism potential from the beauty of its flora and fauna to natural attractions such as the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, the Source of the Nile, and, of course, the Mountain Gorillas,” Amb. Matata stated.
A Royal Reception at the Uganda Pavilion
The Uganda Pavilion has quickly become a focal point of the exhibition, drawing significant crowds with its vibrant displays of biodiversity and cultural heritage. A major highlight of the event was a formal visit by H.E. Seyidova Bahar Hojamuradovna, Turkmenistan’s Deputy Prime Minister for Culture and Mass Media.
Representing the President of Turkmenistan, H.E. Hojamuradovna toured the pavilion, a gesture that signals a growing interest in Uganda’s tourism offerings and a strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations.
Beyond Tourism: Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The engagement in Ashgabat extends beyond travel brochures. On the sidelines of the Expo, Ugandan officials are actively pursuing:
- Bilateral Cooperation: Discussions regarding formal agreements in tourism development and cultural exchange.
- Educational Partnerships: Ongoing engagements with the Ministry of Education to foster “people-to-people” connections.
- Investment Attraction: Positioning Uganda’s tourism sector as a prime destination for international investment.
By participating in TurkmenTravel 2026, Uganda is not just showcasing its landscapes; it is asserting its commitment to global visibility and fostering new partnerships in a part of the world that holds immense potential for future growth.
