The Government is targeting to attract two million local tourists in an effort to boost the country's tourism sector. 

This move is seen as a strategy to diversify the sector's revenue streams and reduce its reliance on international tourism, which has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Government believes that attracting more local tourists will not only help  support the tourism industry but also promote cultural exchange and national unity.

In order to achieve this target, the Government plans to launch various initiatives and programmes aimed at encouraging Ugandans to explore their own country.

Tourism state minister Martin Mugarra Bahinduka made the revelation during a media briefing on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala.

He was giving an update on preparations for the International Museum Day (May 18, 2024) celebrations in Soroti city. 

Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the State Minister Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (middle) in a group photo with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities staff on Tuesday (Photo by Isaac Nuwagaba)

Among the initiatives that the Government plans to implement include offering discounts on accommodation, transportation and attractions for local tourists.

“The Government will also launch a nationwide campaign to promote domestic tourism, highlighting the various unique experiences and attractions that Uganda has to offer” he said.

According to Bahinduka, the theme for this year's celebration shall be: Museums Shaping Knowledge for the Future. It is derived from the International Council of Museums (ICOM) international theme: Museums for Education and Research.

Bahinduka added that this highlights the importance of museums as educational institutions that promote learning, discovery and cultural understanding.

“During the celebrations, we shall visit the famous Nyero Rock paintings in Kumi district and Kapir Rock paintings in Ngora district which have stood for over 5,000 years in our history and the famous man who lowered the British Flag; Union Jack in Soroti when Uganda attained political Independence in 1962,” he said.

"The Government is planning to construct the Moroto Museum and we are targeting over two million local tourists in the next two years," he said.

Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) chief executive officer Lilly Ajarova said this can be done through vigorous marketing of the sector.

“The celebration in Soroti City will feature various activities, including exhibitions, workshops and lectures aimed at promoting cultural awareness, heritage preservation and innovation,” she said.

The Government is also working with the private sector to develop new tourism products and services that cater to the needs and preferences of local tourists. This includes the development of eco-tourism, agrotourism and cultural tourism products, which will allow tourists to experience the beauty and diversity of Uganda's natural and cultural heritage.

“Efforts to promote domestic tourism are expected to have a positive impact on the economy, particularly in rural areas where tourism is a major source of income. By attracting more local tourists, the government hopes to create new job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in these areas,” Bahinduka added.

However, the Government's target of two million local tourists may be challenging to achieve, given the current economic uncertainty. Nevertheless, with the right strategies and initiatives in place, the Government is confident that it can achieve its goal and promote Uganda as a world-class tourist destination.