By Temiteo Okwakol
Uganda has allocated a substantial Shs 286 billion to develop its tourism sector, with a significant emphasis on enhancing the hiking experience on the Rwenzori Mountains.
Finance Minister Matia Kasaija announced that Uganda has regained its status as one of the top ten global tourism destinations. In 2023, international tourist arrivals increased by 56 percent, reaching 1.274 million, compared to 814,085 in 2022 and a peak of 1.52 million in 2019. International tourism receipts amounted to USD 1.03 billion in 2023.
“Tourism has a high return on investment,” Kasaija stated while presenting the national budget. “For FY 2024/25, I have allocated Shs 289.6 billion to tourism development programs to support international and domestic tourism marketing and promotion activities, and to modernize our tourism products to make them more competitive.”
The budget will fund several initiatives, including:
– Completion of the pier and related infrastructure at the Source of the Nile.
– Upgrading the Uganda Museum.
– Construction of 8,000 meters of climbing ladders and boardwalks on the Rwenzori Mountains to enhance hiking safety.
– Grading, supervision, and classification of tourism facilities to ensure high-quality services and adherence to global standards.
– Upgrading the Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute to establish it as an International Centre of Excellence for training and skills development in tourism and hospitality.
Uganda, known for its biodiversity, rich history, and vibrant cultural traditions, remains an underrated tourist destination. The World Bank highlighted the potential to expand Uganda’s tourism appeal beyond its most popular attraction, gorilla trekking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The World Bank report emphasized the unique and memorable experiences offered by activities such as the royal trails across various kingdoms, the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Kasubi Tombs, art galleries in Kampala, and the Nyege Nyege music festival near Itanda Falls on the Nile.
Developing these diverse attractions could significantly boost tourism and increase earnings for Ugandan businesses and the private sector. The budget also aims to enhance the conservation of Uganda’s 22 Wildlife Protected Areas, focusing on mitigating human-wildlife conflicts. This includes constructing an additional 150 kilometers of electric fencing, maintaining the existing 106 kilometers, conducting boundary surveillance with over 13,904 patrols, eradicating invasive species, and building four water dams in protected areas.
Beyond the Shs 287.6 billion allocated directly to tourism, an additional Shs 1.629 trillion is designated for critical interventions supporting tourism. These include support for the Uganda Wildlife Authority, construction and rehabilitation of tourism roads, projects under Kampala Capital City Authority, preparation for AFCON 2027, completion of key stadia, enhancing security in tourism destinations, and extending internet access to these areas.
“I have also provided an additional Shs 55 billion to Uganda’s Missions Abroad to support the Uganda Tourism Board in marketing Uganda to potential tourists, promoting our exports, and attracting more investors,” Kasaija added.