Tourism sector: Uganda out of the woods

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When stability returned to Uganda after the National Resistance Movement (NRM) came to power in 1986, revitalising the tourism sector was high on the agenda. The progress achieved in this sector by 2025 is evident, with accolades from esteemed organisations such as Tripadvisor, CNN and NatGeo, affirming Uganda’s resurgence as a prime travel destination.

Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including over 50 mammal species and mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and various monkey species. Whether it’s birds, culture, or food, the destination has it all-elements that attract tourists to Africa. With the peace in the country, tourists can enjoy hiking, nature walks through forests, mountain climbing, and sport fishing.

Uganda’s attractions include the Source of the River Nile and the breathtaking Murchison Falls, where water hits the rocks with immense power in northern Uganda. Tourists can take boat rides while observing reptiles, hippos, and elephants along the shores of Uganda’s water bodies.

This landlocked country, spanning 236,580 square kilometres, now offers a vibrant nightlife, making it a must-visit for partygoers, honeymooners, and adventure seekers. Activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, quad biking, and sport fishing in Jinja add to Uganda’s appeal.

Fort Portal City, close to Kibale Forest, offers fantastic experiences such as chimpanzee tracking, bird watching, and cultural immersion. With more than ten national parks, the destination now provides a classic African safari experience, with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) doing a remarkable job in conserving and increasing the populations of mammals, reptiles, and birds - especially as wildlife numbers decline in other parts of the world.

Uganda today caters to a range of travellers, from backpackers and budget travellers to those seeking luxury. East African Community (EAC) members benefit from discounted park entry fees. The EAC visa offers visitors easy access, allowing them to explore Uganda and continue their journey to Kenya and Tanzania’s beaches.

(Credit: Titus Kakembo)

Access to Uganda has never been easier, with the expansion of Entebbe International Airport, the completion of Hoima International Airport, and the availability of eleven airstrips across the country. With more international flights, Uganda Airlines is making it easier for travellers to visit and depart.

The road network is in excellent condition, operational 24/7, except for access to some parks after 7:00 pm due to security concerns.

Several countries’ nationals do not require visas to visit Uganda. Tourists come for various reasons, including business, shopping, volunteering, cultural exploration, and faith-based activities. Key source markets include Africa, the EU, the USA, the UAE, and Asia.

In 2023, tourism contributed sh2.8 trillion to the GDP and created over 610,000 jobs. Hotel occupancy rates have risen to 53.9% since the COVID-19 pandemic, when they had reached zero. The “Tulambule” and “Explore Uganda” campaigns continue to boost domestic and African tourism, while accommodation facilities in protected areas have increased to 1,140 rooms.

The NRM’s 2021-2026 manifesto set out 16 commitments, 81% of which have been implemented, with completion expected by next year.

Flashback

To fully appreciate the NRM’s achievements, one must consider Uganda’s past. For years, Uganda faced political instability, competing with Nigeria for frequent coups. The country’s infrastructure was in dire condition, and travelling to see gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Kidepo Valley National Park once took two days.

Post-independence regimes under leaders like Dr Milton Obote, Idi Amin, Yusuf Lule, Godfrey Binaisa, and Tito Okello, were plagued by tribal and religious divisions. This period was marked by instability, which was only addressed when the broad-based government under the NRM took charge.

The fall of Idi Amin and the aftermath of the Uganda National Liberation Army (UNLA) led to more turmoil, culminating in the 1980 elections that brought Obote back to power. Following that, Yoweri Museveni went to the bush, and on January 26, 1986, he toppled the regime of Tito Okello, who had overthrown Obote in 1985. The subsequent civil conflicts, such as the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) in the north, Allied Defense Forces (ADF) in the west, and Uganda People’s Army (UPA) in the east, have since been defeated.

Uganda now stands as a symbol of resilience, a country that has overcome its tumultuous past to emerge as a beacon for tourism, growth, and stability.

As told to Titus Kakembo by Tourism ministry commissioner tourism Vivian Lyaz