Tourism
Uganda bets on tourism growth as sector gets sh567b boost in new budget
“Tourism is one of Uganda’s most powerful export industries. It generates foreign exchange. It creates jobs. It supports thousands of enterprises. And it showcases Uganda to the world. The following achievements have been registered this financial year,” said Musasizi.
Finance Minister Henry Musasizi. (File photo)
By: Titus Kakembo, Journalist @New Vision
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Government has reaffirmed tourism as one of Uganda’s most powerful export industries, projecting it as a key driver of foreign exchange earnings, job creation and international visibility under the 2026/27 national budget.
The sector featured prominently in the budget speech delivered by Henry Musasizi, the finance minister, who outlined both achievements and new priorities aimed at strengthening Uganda’s global tourism competitiveness.
Musasizi underscored the strategic role of tourism in Uganda’s economy, describing it as a sector with wide-ranging economic linkages.
“Tourism is one of Uganda’s most powerful export industries. It generates foreign exchange. It creates jobs. It supports thousands of enterprises. And it showcases Uganda to the world. The following achievements have been registered this financial year,” he said.
Uganda’s tourism visibility has continued to grow under the “Explore Uganda, the Pearl of Africa” brand, with increased presence at major international tourism platforms and award recognition.
Musasizi highlighted Uganda’s growing use of diplomatic missions to promote tourism and investment.
“Uganda’s global tourism visibility is at an all-time high, driven by the aggressive destination marketing under the ‘Explore Uganda, the Pearl of Africa’ brand. The country’s growing international profile and industry endorsements are evident in its recent global presence and awards,” he said.
Industry reactions
Tourism stakeholders have welcomed the increased allocation, describing it as a positive signal of government commitment, while also calling for efficient implementation and complementary investments in skills, infrastructure and communication.
Uganda’s tourism visibility has continued to grow under the “Explore Uganda, the Pearl of Africa” brand, with increased presence at major international tourism platforms and award recognition.
Musasizi highlighted Uganda’s growing use of diplomatic missions to promote tourism and investment.
“Uganda’s global tourism visibility is at an all-time high, driven by the aggressive destination marketing under the ‘Explore Uganda, the Pearl of Africa’ brand. The country’s growing international profile and industry endorsements are evident in its recent global presence and awards,” he said.
Industry reactions
Tourism stakeholders have welcomed the increased allocation, describing it as a positive signal of government commitment, while also calling for efficient implementation and complementary investments in skills, infrastructure and communication.
Vivian Lyazi - Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities
“The 2026/27 budget allocation reaffirms government's commitment to tourism as a key driver of economic growth. The sector has made a strong recovery and sustained investment is needed to unlock its full potential. The funding will support destination marketing, product diversification, conservation and improved visitor experiences. Uganda's strength lies in its unique attractions, from mountain gorillas and national parks to cultural heritage and birdlife. Continued investment in these assets is essential if we are to remain competitive. Tourism creates jobs, generates foreign exchange and supports a broad value chain that benefits communities and businesses across the country.”
Sudhir Ruparelia - Ruparelia Group
“The tourism allocation is a positive signal that government appreciates the sector's contribution to the economy. However, the real impact will depend on how effectively the funds are utilized. Tourism stimulates business across multiple sectors, including hospitality, transport, agriculture, entertainment, retail and real estate. Uganda already possesses world-class attractions. What is needed is consistent investment in better infrastructure, aggressive destination marketing and service delivery. If implemented strategically, the allocation can generate significant returns through increased visitor arrivals, longer stays, job creation and foreign exchange earnings.”
Richard Kawere - Uganda Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (UITHM)
“The budget allocation is an important investment in the future of tourism. While infrastructure and marketing remain critical, we must not overlook the role of skills development. The growth of tourism and hospitality depends on a well-trained workforce capable of delivering quality services. As visitor numbers increase, the demand for skilled personnel in hotels, tour operations and customer service will continue to grow. Investment in training and professional development will strengthen service standards, improve visitor satisfaction and enhance Uganda's competitiveness as a destination.”
James Mwere, President, Uganda Tour Guides Forum
“We welcome the tourism allocation and hope part of it will support destination reputation management and crisis communication. Tourism is highly sensitive to global perceptions. Uganda has demonstrated its ability to manage health emergencies such as Ebola, Marburg and COVID-19, but communication during such periods must be coordinated and consistent. Accurate information helps maintain traveller confidence and protects the destination's image. Avoiding unnecessary cancellations can save the industry millions of dollars and safeguard thousands of jobs that depend on tourism.”
“The 2026/27 budget allocation reaffirms government's commitment to tourism as a key driver of economic growth. The sector has made a strong recovery and sustained investment is needed to unlock its full potential. The funding will support destination marketing, product diversification, conservation and improved visitor experiences. Uganda's strength lies in its unique attractions, from mountain gorillas and national parks to cultural heritage and birdlife. Continued investment in these assets is essential if we are to remain competitive. Tourism creates jobs, generates foreign exchange and supports a broad value chain that benefits communities and businesses across the country.”
Sudhir Ruparelia - Ruparelia Group
“The tourism allocation is a positive signal that government appreciates the sector's contribution to the economy. However, the real impact will depend on how effectively the funds are utilized. Tourism stimulates business across multiple sectors, including hospitality, transport, agriculture, entertainment, retail and real estate. Uganda already possesses world-class attractions. What is needed is consistent investment in better infrastructure, aggressive destination marketing and service delivery. If implemented strategically, the allocation can generate significant returns through increased visitor arrivals, longer stays, job creation and foreign exchange earnings.”
Richard Kawere - Uganda Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (UITHM)
“The budget allocation is an important investment in the future of tourism. While infrastructure and marketing remain critical, we must not overlook the role of skills development. The growth of tourism and hospitality depends on a well-trained workforce capable of delivering quality services. As visitor numbers increase, the demand for skilled personnel in hotels, tour operations and customer service will continue to grow. Investment in training and professional development will strengthen service standards, improve visitor satisfaction and enhance Uganda's competitiveness as a destination.”
James Mwere, President, Uganda Tour Guides Forum
“We welcome the tourism allocation and hope part of it will support destination reputation management and crisis communication. Tourism is highly sensitive to global perceptions. Uganda has demonstrated its ability to manage health emergencies such as Ebola, Marburg and COVID-19, but communication during such periods must be coordinated and consistent. Accurate information helps maintain traveller confidence and protects the destination's image. Avoiding unnecessary cancellations can save the industry millions of dollars and safeguard thousands of jobs that depend on tourism.”