Uganda’s Prepared Partnership in the Field of Tourism

Uganda prioritises tourism through a collaborative framework involving government agencies, private operators, local communities, and international investors. This strategy focuses on sustainable growth and sector-wide investment.

Uganda's Tourism Potential

Uganda possesses diverse natural and cultural assets, including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and lions. Key geographic features include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Lake Victoria.

2024 Performance Data:

• International Arrivals: 1.37 million
• Revenue: USD 1.28 billion
• Employment: 800,000+ jobs

Primary Competitive Advantages:

• Specialised primate trekking (gorillas and chimpanzees).
• Varied ecosystems (rainforests, savannahs, and waterfalls).
• Cultural diversity comprises over 50 ethnic groups.

Government Policies and Tourism Partnerships

The Ugandan government classifies tourism as a primary economic driver. Development is governed by the National Tourism Policy (2025) and the Uganda Tourism Development Master Plan. These frameworks emphasise investment facilitation, product diversification, and skill acquisition. The Uganda Tourism Board manages international marketing under the brand "Explore Uganda: The Pearl of Africa."

Infrastructure Supporting Tourism

Ongoing infrastructure projects support sector expansion:

• Transport: Road upgrades connect primary tourism circuits; Entebbe International Airport is expanding with a new passenger terminal.
• Energy: The Karuma and Isimba hydropower projects have stabilised the power supply for hospitality services.
• Digital: Expanded broadband enables online booking systems and digital payment processing.

Human Resources and Service Quality

To maintain service standards, government agencies and industry associations provide standardised training and licensing. These programs aim to professionalise the workforce and ensure consistent quality across the hospitality sector.

Marketing and Promotion

Marketing strategies target high-value, experience-based travellers. Promotion occurs through digital campaigns, international trade shows, and the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE). These initiatives seek to attract both responsible tourists and long-term investors.

Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

Uganda utilises revenue-sharing models to integrate local communities into the tourism economy.

• Park Fees: 20% of entry revenue is distributed to local communities.
• Permits: A fixed portion of gorilla trekking fees is allocated to community development.

The strategy balances economic expansion with environmental conservation through ecotourism and community-based initiatives.

Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general reference only and may change due to policy updates, infrastructure developments, or official revisions. Readers should consult relevant Ugandan authorities or official tourism bodies for the most current and authoritative information.