Uganda’s Tourism Sector Sees Resurgence Amid Strategic Investment

Hon. Matia Kasaija, Uganda’s Minister of Finance, highlighted the pivotal role of tourism in the country’s Vision 2040 during the 2nd Annual Tourism Development Programme Review Conference in Kampala, themed “Tourism and Peace.” He emphasized that the sector is key to Uganda’s economic transformation, backed by a public investment of approximately Shs2.9 trillion from FY 2020/21 to 2024/25.

Kasaija reported a remarkable recovery in international tourist arrivals, with a return of 82.6% of pre-pandemic numbers, totaling 1,274,210 visitors by the end of 2023—up from 814,508 in 2022. Compliance with national and international service standards has also improved, rising from 34% to 55%. Furthermore, international tourism receipts soared by 48%, climbing from Shs2.57 trillion in 2022 to Shs3.819 trillion in 2023.

Minister for Tourism, Hon. Tom Butime, credited the increase in tourist numbers to enhanced promotional efforts and new flight routes introduced by Uganda Airlines, alongside the expansion of Entebbe International Airport. He emphasized ongoing conservation efforts across 22 wildlife protected areas and 30 sanctuaries, aimed at minimizing human-wildlife conflicts.

Both ministers underscored the importance of diverse tourism products and customer satisfaction, ensuring tourist safety through technology and insurance. The Tourism Development Programme is set to promote domestic and inbound tourism, enhance infrastructure, and develop skilled personnel in the tourism value chain, ultimately aiming for annual export earnings of US$50 billion.

Doreen Katusiime, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, noted that the conference serves as a crucial platform to showcase progress in the tourism sector’s recovery, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the government, private sector, and civil society.