The Government of Uganda has spotlighted the tourism sector as a cornerstone for the nation’s socio-economic transformation, aligning it with its ambitious Vision 2040 to grow the economy tenfold—from USD 50 billion to USD 500 billion.
In a bold move to boost tourism alongside key sectors like Agro-industrialization, mineral development, and Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), the government recently underscored its commitment during the World Tourism Day celebrations in Kasese, with the President calling for more private-sector investments to close gaps in accommodation, entertainment, and specialized services.
At the recent concluded World Tourism Day celebration event in Kasese, the President emphasized the need for more investment in the Tourism sector by the private sector to cover the gap in services like Accommodation, entertainment and provision of other specialized services. He promised that the NRM government will ready to deliver an enabling environment for the businesses in the tourism sector to thrive.
The president’s speech uncovered a grand comprehensive plan which tourism to be one of the fore drivers of socio-economic development.
“We recognize tourism as not just a vital sector for our economy, but also a powerful tool in promoting harmony and peaceful coexistence among different communities, cultures, and even countries” remarks Hon. Tom Butime, Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA) who represented His Excellence Yoweri Kaguta Museveni during the World Tourism Day event at Nyakasanga Grounds in Kasese on 27th September, 2024.
The state minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Bahinduka Mugarra hailed the government and local stakeholders in the tourism sector for the improved service delivery and infrastructure that is promoting Kasese as a top destination for tourism and exploration in the country.
He recognized the efforts of initiatives like Rwenzori Theluji Festival, the Rwenzori Marathon and the upcoming Explore Rwenzori Campaign for putting Kasese into spotlight as a premier destination adventure tourism and cultural exploration.
The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA), Miss Doreen Katusiime praised the role played by tourism for creating platforms for fostering social justice, human rights, economic fairness and inclusivity.
“In regions once affected by conflict, like Rwenzori, tourism has played a critical role in rebuilding communities, restoring hope, and promoting economic recovery” notes Miss Katusiime.
The Netherlands Ambassador to Uganda, H.E Fredereike Quispel applauded the Uganda Tourism sector for managing to attract European companies to invest in the sector and many are developing sustainable tourism products paving the road to present Uganda as a premium tourism destination.
Mr. Yogi Bigirwa, President of the Uganda Tourism Association and representative of the private sector, highlighted the powerful ripple effect tourism has on Uganda’s economy, stating that when the sector thrives, it uplifts prosperity from the household level to the national economy, creating a multiplier effect across various facets of life.
The President’s speech at the World Tourism Day event assured attendees that the government has crafted specific interventions to address challenges in the tourism sector under the forthcoming 4th National Development Plan (NDP IV), set for implementation from FY 2025/26 to 2029/30.
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The commitments made by the President, government officials, the private sector, and local communities clearly show Uganda’s dedication to positioning tourism as a key driver for socio-economic transformation and the achievement of Vision 2040. By elevating the sector, Uganda aims to accelerate growth and expand opportunities, laying the groundwork for a prosperous future.
