Conference in Uganda – seen through the eyes of our General Manager

Kampala Serena Hotel

As a unique conference destination, Uganda ticks many boxes for delegates travelling from Europe. Companies are always looking for the next new destination. Uganda offers easy access from Europe, short travelling times and a unique African Conference with world class facilities for groups of all sizes.

PRO’s

• Ideally located at the very heart of Kampala, the Kampala Serena Hotel stands amidst 72 acres of landscaped grounds and water gardens. An oasis of cool and green, encircled by the seven hills of Kampala, this 152-room world-class hotel is the focal point of national, regional, business, political and social life.
• The Kampala Serena International Conference Centre is located within the secure hotel grounds. This conference centre has a large Auditorium and Plenary which can take from 200 – 1200pax. There are 7 additional breakout rooms with capacities ranging from 50 – 300pax. Most venues have a built in PA system, although additional sound and lighting is generally required and it is advisable to have on site technicians. The property hosted the CHOGM Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2007.
• There are two other 5* hotels in Kampala city centre, a mere 10 minute transfer away – The Kampala Sheraton (218 rooms) and the Emin Pasha Hotel (a small boutique hotel offering 20 rooms).
• A brand new Hilton Hotel is currently being built and will be completed early 2012. It’s location is within 10 minute drive of the Serena International Conference Centre
• The brand new Entebbe International Airport ensures custom clearing and immigration a quick and seamless process.
• I found the service from all providers to be very professional with friendly, able and willing staff – Ugandans in the main are an extremely generous and welcoming nation.
• Kampala is extremely safe destination despite recent troubles.
• Quality of buffet food for conference is good and varied and includes some local fair as well.
• Exciting pre and post trips for delegates – Gorilla Trekking, Lake Victoria, Queen Elizabeth National Park and the tree climbing lions, Murchison Falls, Source of the Nile and river rafting in Jinga.

CON’s

• Entebbe Airport is a minimum hour drive, during peak hour traffic can be more, from the city centre.
• Decor in the venues is a bit dated and could do with some additional full length table cloths and cocktail cloths for functions. We can arrange for this to be brought in from neighbouring centres. Would need to revisit the food menus particularly on how various courses are plated and presented, in order to bring up to European standards.