Travel Uganda with confidence

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OPINION

By Gessa Simplicious (PhD)

As Uganda approaches the 2026 election period, it is natural for the country to experience a mix of opinions, spirited debate, and active public engagement.

Elections bring conversations into homes, workplaces, and communities, reflecting a society that is alive, involved, and exercising its democratic rights. This diversity of views is part of who we are as a nation.

Yet beyond the politics and the debates, everyday life continues, and so does Tourism. Quietly and consistently, tourism has kept communities working, businesses open, and families earning an income.

It is one of the few sectors that brings Ugandans together across regions, cultures, and political beliefs, reminding us of what we share rather than what divides us.

In Uganda, tourism is far more than a leisure activity or a commercial enterprise. It is a shared national asset and a dependable source of livelihood for thousands of ordinary Ugandans. Its impact extends well beyond hotels, lodges, and tour companies, cutting across political, social, and regional lines. From rural communities to urban centres, it creates opportunities that benefit people regardless of their background.

Farmers across the country supply fresh produce, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meat to hotels, lodges, and restaurants. Transport operators ferry visitors between towns, cities, and remote attractions. Artisans and craft makers earn income from handmade souvenirs that tell Uganda’s cultural story. Tour guides and rangers interpret landscapes, wildlife, and heritage for visitors, while cultural performers, community groups, and conservation initiatives benefit directly from visitor spending. Each tourism experience activates a broad value chain that touches households in multiple sectors of the economy.

Every tourist journey in Uganda supports people of different beliefs, opinions, and political affiliations. For many families, it provides a steady and dependable source of income that helps households meet daily needs, pay school fees, support healthcare, and sustain small businesses. Importantly, this support continues regardless of the political season. Tourism, by its nature, is inclusive, resilient, and rooted in community participation.

As Ugandans go about fulfilling their civic duty of electing leaders of their choice on 15 January and in the days that follow, the Pearl of Africa remains open and welcomes all visitors. Uganda is fully prepared to receive travellers and to deliver uninterrupted tourism experiences across the country. Elections do not pause the beauty of Uganda’s landscapes, the warmth of its people, or the professionalism of its services.

Tourism performance in Uganda continues to demonstrate resilience and positive growth. In 2024, the country recorded an increase in both the average length of stay and visitor expenditure, reflecting growing confidence among travellers and investors. Tourism-related investments grew by UGX 7.5 billion, accounting for 17.2% of national investments, underscoring the sector’s critical contribution to the wider economy. Sustaining this momentum throughout the election period is not only possible, but it is firmly in the national interest.

As the 2026 electoral calendar progresses, tourism operations across the country have continued normally. National parks, wildlife reserves, cultural and heritage sites, hotels, lodges, transport services, and tour operations have remained open and accessible. Visitors are encouraged to continue to enjoy wildlife, adventure experiences at the source of the Nile, and rich cultural encounters across the country. From the savannahs of the north to the rainforests of the southwest, serene lakeshores and the vibrant nightlife of Kampala, Uganda remains ready to be explored.

Government of Uganda has put in place appropriate security arrangements to ensure the safety of citizens and visitors. UTB will continue to work closely with relevant government agencies as well as the private sector to have seamless visitor experiences across the country. Travellers can move around the country with confidence, assured of a secure and hospitable environment.

Tourism transcends politics. It is a shared national promise that brings opportunity, pride, and prosperity to the people from all backgrounds. It reflects the country’s commitment to openness, hospitality, and sustainable development. As Ugandans exercise their democratic right, UTB continues to extend a warm welcome to the world. Uganda is ready to welcome visitors today, tomorrow, and beyond the election season.

The writer is the Head Public Relations and Communication Uganda Tourism Board