Uganda-China Tourism Symposium Sparks Collaboration and Growth Opportunities
On January 21, 2025, the Uganda-China Tourism and Cultural Symposium took place in Kampala, marking a significant milestone in the tourism collaboration between the two nations. Co-hosted by the Uganda Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and the Chinese Embassy in Uganda, the event brought together over 200 representatives from the tourism sectors of both countries. Key attendees included Ambassador Zhang Lizhong, Tom Butime, Uganda’s Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Amb. H.E. Oliver Wonekha, Uganda’s Ambassador to China, and Dai Bin, President of the China Tourism Research Institute.
Ambassador Zhang highlighted the symposium as a milestone event in strengthening Uganda-China cooperation in the tourism sector, infusing new energy into the China-Uganda friendship. He emphasized that the partnership aligns with the Ten Partnership Actions framework, which outlines goals and priority areas for China-Africa cooperation over the next three years. “China is committed to working closely with Uganda to unlock tourism’s potential in driving social and economic transformation,” he said, underscoring the role of tourism in advancing modernization in both Africa and China.
Minister Tom Butime echoed these sentiments, noting that Uganda and China both boast rich cultural heritage and diverse tourism resources, creating vast opportunities for collaboration. He expressed optimism about the broad space for cooperation in promoting sustainable tourism development between the two nations.
Dai Bin, President of the China Tourism Research Institute, shared insights into the future of China-Africa tourism cooperation. He projected that Uganda could soon become a priority outbound tourism destination for Chinese travelers, establishing itself as a model for effective China-Africa tourism collaboration.
The symposium featured a variety of activities, including a tourism and cultural exhibition, live cultural performances, and business-to-business (B2B) dialogues aimed at fostering partnerships between Ugandan and Chinese industry stakeholders. Delegates from the tourism industries of both countries also participated in discussions and negotiations to strengthen ties and identify growth opportunities.
For African travel agents, this development underscores the growing importance of China as a key tourism market for Uganda and Africa at large. By tapping into this partnership, agents can position Uganda as a prime destination for Chinese travelers, leveraging the nation’s unique wildlife, cultural experiences, and natural wonders.
The Uganda-China Tourism and Cultural Symposium highlights the role of international partnerships in expanding Africa’s tourism footprint and creating new opportunities for economic growth. As Uganda strengthens its ties with China, travel professionals in the region stand to benefit from increased connectivity, enhanced tourism offerings, and new markets for inbound travelers.
