Uganda’s Tourism Industry on a Steady Growth Trajectory, Says Hon. Tom Butime

Kampala, November 21, 2024 – The Minister for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, has assured Ugandans that the country’s tourism sector is steadily recovering from the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking during the NRM Manifesto Week conference held at the President’s Office in Kampala, Hon. Butime expressed optimism that the industry’s growth would soon place Uganda among the leading global tourist destinations.

“The tourism industry is on a steady growth trajectory. We are addressing the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and I can confidently say Uganda is on the path to reclaiming its spot at the top,” Hon. Butime said.

He highlighted the resilience of the sector, which contributes significantly to Uganda’s revenue and development efforts. “Tourism is one of the key pillars of Uganda’s economy. It accounts for a substantial percentage of our national revenue, which in turn supports infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other developmental programs,” he added.

The Economic Contribution of Tourism

Tourism remains a critical driver of Uganda’s economy. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, in 2019—before the pandemic—the sector contributed 7.7% to the country’s GDP and generated approximately USD 1.6 billion in revenue. Despite the pandemic’s devastating impact, recent reports indicate a recovery, with earnings from the sector expected to reach USD 1.2 billion in 2024.

The minister acknowledged the challenges posed by the pandemic, including the decline in international arrivals, disruption of tourism activities, and job losses within the sector. However, he affirmed that the government had implemented measures to revitalize the industry.

Strategies to Boost Tourism

Hon. Butime pointed out ongoing efforts to enhance Uganda’s appeal to both domestic and international tourists. These include infrastructure development, such as improving roads leading to national parks, strengthening wildlife conservation efforts, and promoting Uganda’s rich cultural heritage.

“We are investing in marketing Uganda’s unique attractions, from the breathtaking Murchison Falls to the iconic gorilla trekking experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Our goal is to make Uganda a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide,” he explained.

Uganda’s Rich Tourism Potential

Uganda boasts a diverse range of attractions, including ten national parks, over 1,000 bird species, and the source of the Nile. It is home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas, making it a top destination for primate tourism. The sector also provides over 600,000 jobs, underscoring its role in empowering communities.

Hon. Butime concluded by calling on stakeholders to support government efforts in promoting Uganda’s tourism sector. “Together, we can position Uganda as a global leader in tourism, and the benefits will be felt by every Ugandan,” he said.

The tourism industry’s recovery symbolizes hope for Uganda’s economic growth, with potential to surpass pre-pandemic levels and drive sustainable development across the country.