By Frank Kamuntu
The Vice Chancellor of Victoria University, Prof Lawrence Muganga on Friday was among the top guests at the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE), an annual tourism and travel trade show that is organized by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB).
Each year, the expo brings together tourism value chain actors and stakeholders under the Business-to-business and Business-to-consumer formats, for networking opportunities, and business deals. This year’s show was held at Speke Resort and Convention Centre in Munyonyo, Kampala from 23rd to 25th May 2024.
At this event, Prof Muganga made it clear that Uganda continues to lose billions of revenue not only from the tourism industry but even in other sectors as a result of the failure to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.
Innovative Muganga’s Exclusive Tips To Tour Operators
He explained that Uganda can become a global content creator, producing stunning virtual game parks, historical sites, and cultural events for platforms that support VR, AR, and even Netflix. ”This opens up a whole new revenue stream, allowing people worldwide to “visit” Uganda from their living rooms, and sparking interest in experiencing the real thing.”
The famous educationist stated that Uganda can have virtual safaris with AI-powered guides narrating breathtaking encounters with mountain gorillas, tree-climbing lions, and the vibrant birdlife of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Also, on immersive cultural experiences, Muganga said the world can step into a 360° Ugandan village, where virtual tourists can join the rhythmic dances, taste authentic cuisine prepared by virtual chefs, and learn the rich histories from local storytellers.
Further, the author of EA’s first AI Book, Muganga said the country can have blockchain-verified souvenirs explaining; ”the world virtual tourists can actually purchase unique digital crafts directly from Ugandan artisans, knowing your purchase is secure and supports the local economy.”
He adds, ”Through robot ambassadors, Uganda can have the opportunity to create and have AI-powered “Ugandan” guides who can answer any question about our beautiful country, inspiring wanderlust and curiosity.”
Prof Muganga tipped UTB, that with AI, Immersive Tech, Blockchain, and Robotics, Uganda can be made accessible to all, fostering global connections and sustainable tourism growth.
”If we do the above, Uganda’s tourism sector stands a chance to gain from the future $300T Global GDP. Let’s break barriers and share the Pearl of Africa with the world!” he said.
While speaking at the 2024 Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo this morning, I addressed the audience and shared that:
@TourismBoardUg: It is time for a tourism revolution. Let's bring the magic of Uganda to the world, no passport required. Imagine:
Virtual Game Parks & Digital… pic.twitter.com/15o4WEMkVT
— ᗪᖇ. ᒪᗩᗯᖇEᑎᑕE ᗰᑌGᗩᑎGᗩ (@ReachDrMuganga) May 24, 2024
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