Uganda: Ready to Welcome the World with Open Arms and New Infrastructure

Uganda is on the cusp of a tourism revolution, with ambitious plans to become a leading global destination. President Yoweri Museveni recently reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to this vision, emphasizing strategic planning, infrastructure development, and public-private partnerships as key drivers of growth.

In a high-level meeting with the Uganda Tourism Association (UTA), Museveni urged a shift away from short-term, profit-focused approaches. “Tourism doesn’t just need money,” he stated, “it needs supportive policies, proper classification, and careful planning.” He encouraged investors to explore financing options through the Uganda Development Bank (UDB), aligning with national development goals.

Museveni outlined a comprehensive strategy to leverage future oil revenues for critical infrastructure upgrades. This includes expanding airport capacity and developing road networks connecting major tourist attractions, enhancing accessibility to Uganda’s renowned national parks, wildlife reserves, and cultural heritage sites. “The government will work hand in hand with industry stakeholders to maximize the benefits of tourism for our economy,” he affirmed.

Uganda’s tourism sector, a significant contributor to GDP and job creation, is rebounding strongly from the COVID-19 pandemic. The government’s commitment to infrastructure development comes at a crucial time, addressing stakeholders’ calls for increased support and improved connectivity. New developments, such as the Kidepo International Airport, slated to open in August 2024, and extensive road upgrades, signal a transformative phase for Uganda’s tourism landscape.

UTA Chairperson Yogi Biriggwa welcomed the President’s pledges, advocating for expedited implementation of existing tourism development blueprints, including the Tourism Master Plan and National Tourism Development Strategy. “Our members are ready to play their part,” she stated, “but we need government to create an enabling environment—one that’s predictable, well-funded, and globally competitive.”

Uganda’s diverse attractions, from the endangered mountain gorillas of Bwindi to the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, Lake Victoria, and the source of the Nile, offer unique experiences for travelers. The government’s focus on sustainable development aims to leverage these assets for long-term economic growth.

Museveni emphasized the importance of treating tourism as a core pillar of national development. With strategic investments and supportive policies, Uganda is poised to transform its natural beauty into immense wealth for its people, creating exciting opportunities for African travel agents and the global tourism industry.

Uganda’s tourism sector is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, with international arrivals and revenue steadily climbing. In 2024, the country welcomed 1,371,895 international visitors, generating a record \$1.28 billion in revenue. This positive trend is expected to continue, with projections indicating full recovery to pre-pandemic levels by 2025.

The government’s proactive approach to infrastructure development is a game-changer. Major projects, including the Kidepo International Airport and significant road upgrades, are enhancing accessibility to key tourist destinations. These improvements are crucial for attracting international visitors and boosting the overall tourism experience.

Beyond infrastructure, Uganda is investing in other vital areas, such as hospitality training and digital connectivity. The Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute is being upgraded to international standards, ensuring a skilled workforce to cater to the growing tourism sector. Simultaneously, the expansion of fiber optic networks and 4G technology is improving communication and access to information in tourist areas.

Uganda’s commitment to sustainable tourism is also noteworthy. Investments in conservation efforts, community-based tourism initiatives, and partnerships with international organizations like the European Union are fostering responsible growth and ensuring that tourism benefits local communities.

For African travel agents, Uganda presents a wealth of opportunities. The country’s diverse attractions, coupled with the government’s commitment to infrastructure development and sustainable tourism practices, create a compelling case for promoting Uganda as a premier destination. By partnering with Ugandan tourism stakeholders, travel agents can tap into this growing market and offer their clients unforgettable experiences.