President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Tuesday hosted American R&B singer and actor Tyrese Gibson at State House, where the two discussed creative arts, tourism, and the shared history and heritage of Africa and African Americans.
Gibson, best known for his role as Roman Pearce in the Fast & Furious franchise and hits such as “Sweet Lady,” arrived in Uganda earlier in the day for a three-day visit aimed at promoting the country’s coffee, tourism, and investment opportunities.
The Hollywood star was welcomed at Entebbe International Airport by officials from the Uganda Tourism Board and other partners, draped in the Ugandan flag as he expressed excitement about returning to the Pearl of Africa—his second visit after 2012.
During the meeting, Museveni outlined Uganda’s four sectors of socio-economic transformation and highlighted the role of artistes in the services sector. He discussed opportunities in these areas and how figures like Gibson can contribute to national development.
“I welcome international artiste Tyrese Gibson to Uganda… I wish him a fruitful and enjoyable visit,” the President posted afterward.
Gibson’s itinerary includes the launch of the Explore Uganda Coffee Tourism campaign, a visit to the Source of the Nile in Jinja, coffee-tree planting, and interactions with farmers in western Uganda, including the Africa Coffee Park in Ntungamo. Organisers hope his global profile will boost visibility for Uganda’s coffee value chain and tourism offerings, with a Coffee Concert planned for October in Ntungamo where he is expected to perform.
The engagement underscores efforts to position Uganda as a destination blending natural attractions, culture, and agricultural exports on the international stage.