Uganda Tourism Sector Prioritizes Increased Funding for Economic Growth
UGANDA PLANS TO PRIORITIZE TOURISM WITH FUNDING BOOST AND INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT TO ACHIEVE ECONOMIC GROWTH.
Uganda’s Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, has pledged the government’s increased support for the tourism sector. Speaking at the Ekkula Sustainable Tourism Awards 2024, Tayebwa emphasized plans to prioritize tourism as a key economic driver in the next financial year.
During the event at Sheraton Hotel in Kampala, Tayebwa lauded the sector’s achievements despite limited resources. He highlighted tourism’s resilience and its significant role in marketing Uganda globally. “Even with limited funding, you are delivering impressive results that attract people to our beautiful country,” he said.
Transforming Uganda Tourism into an Economic Powerhouse
Tayebwa outlined the government’s vision to elevate tourism under the “ATM” sectors—agriculture, tourism, and minerals. The sector generated $1.4 billion last year, but the goal is to reach $50 billion by 2050. Achieving this requires increased investment in marketing, branding, and infrastructure.
The Deputy Speaker announced plans to build new airports, including one in Kasese through a public-private partnership. “We cannot achieve much with just speeches. We are now taking action to transform Uganda’s tourism,” he added.
The Ekkula Sustainable Tourism Awards honored key contributors to the sector. President Yoweri Museveni received the Lifetime Achiever Award for promoting tourism, while Eliot Mugisha was recognized as the Sustainable Tourism Youth Champion for his efforts in the field.
Tayebwa assured tourism stakeholders that Uganda government will fully support their initiatives. He emphasized that tourism has the potential to create wealth, saying, “The next billionaires will come from tourism.”
Improving Kampala’s First Impression
Tayebwa also highlighted the need to enhance Kampala’s appeal as Uganda’s gateway for international visitors. He stressed the importance of clean streets, modern infrastructure, and a welcoming environment. Efforts to decongest the city and upgrade utilities are underway to improve visitors’ experiences from the moment they arrive.
