Uganda’s tourism industry is back in full swing — and it’s booming. The sector recorded a 13.1% jump in earnings, reaching Shs5.8 trillion in the year ending March 2025, up from Shs5.2 trillion in the same period in 2024.
This announcement was made by Finance Minister Matia Kasaija during the national budget presentation for the 2025/26 financial year, held at Kololo Independence Grounds on June 12.
Kasaija attributed this growth to three major factors: continued peace and security, strong government investment in tourism infrastructure, and increased global competitiveness.
“Tourism earnings are rising due to improved infrastructure, peace and security, and enhanced service delivery within the tourism and hospitality sectors,” said the minister. “We remain committed to positioning Uganda as a premier destination in Africa.”
From gorilla trekking in Bwindi to game drives in Murchison Falls and cultural experiences across the country, Uganda’s tourism appeal lies in its diversity. Visitors are increasingly drawn to the country’s unmatched mix of wildlife, culture, adventure, and scenery.
A Sector that Creates Jobs and Sparks Growth
Tourism remains one of Uganda’s top foreign exchange earners — and it’s more than just numbers. It supports thousands of livelihoods, especially in rural areas. Jobs linked to the sector span transport, guiding, accommodation, crafts, and local food supply chains.
As tourism recovers, these ripple effects are again being felt across the country, bringing income to communities near national parks and heritage sites.
Diaspora Remittances Also on the Rise
Tourism wasn’t the only bright spot in Uganda’s economy. Remittances from Ugandans abroad hit USD 1.4 billion (about Shs5.3 trillion) in the same 12-month period, up from USD 1.33 billion (Shs5 trillion) the year before.
These funds play a vital role in family welfare — covering education, healthcare, housing, and entrepreneurship, especially in urban and peri-urban areas.
Investors Are Taking Notice
Uganda also attracted more foreign direct investment (FDI), with inflows rising to Shs13.3 trillion by March 2025, up from Shs11.4 trillion the previous year.
Minister Kasaija linked this to macroeconomic stability, investor-friendly policies, and infrastructure investments.
“Uganda has maintained its ranking among Africa’s top investment destinations,” he noted.
The 2025/26 national budget, themed “Full Monetisation of the Ugandan Economy through Commercial Agriculture, Industrialisation, Expanding and Broadening Services, Digital Transformation and Market Access”, earmarks Shs6.92 trillion for roads, railways, bridges, and water transport — all crucial for tourism access.
Uganda’s Global Tourism Push
With strategic promotion and development, Uganda is steadily carving out a place as a top global tourism destination. Its natural beauty, wildlife diversity, and cultural depth offer exactly what today’s travelers crave: authenticity.
The sharp growth in tourism revenue is more than encouraging — it’s a clear sign that Uganda’s star is rising in the global travel landscape.
