KAMPALA: In robust move to bolster tourism sector, government has earmarked Shs41.12 billion in the last quarter of 204/25 Financial year for the development of key tourism infrastructure.
The funding is part of a larger Shs9.79 trillion release for the quarter, representing 25.64% of the revised national budget.
The momentous portion underscores government priorities in implementing key development projects, with tourism infrastructure emerging as a focal point.
Ramathan Ggoobi, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, said the funds earmarked for the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities will go toward critical infrastructure initiatives.
“This funding is strategically directed towards the development of key tourism infrastructure, including the Source of the Nile project, which is instrumental in fostering sustainable tourism and driving economic growth,” said Ggoobi.
Ggoobi explained that the government’s latest financial commitment underscores its long-term vision of positioning tourism as a key pillar in the country’s economic transformation.
The funding boost comes ahead of the highly anticipated Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2025, scheduled for 21st to 24th May at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities is expected to use the platform to spotlight Uganda’s progress and commitment to sustainable tourism.
Running alongside POATE will be the Uganda Tourism Board’s “Tell Your Story – Explore Uganda” campaign, aimed at encouraging domestic tourism.
The initiative invites Ugandans to share personal travel experiences, build national pride, and explore the country’s beauty.
POATE 2025 is set to attract 70 international buyers, over 5,000 trade visitors, and numerous exhibitors.
This year’s expo will focus on MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism, recognizing its potential to attract high-value clients and elevate Uganda’s profile as a global destination.
Through its business-to-business and business-to-consumer sessions, POATE fosters valuable connections, strategic deals, and investment opportunities, further propelling Uganda’s tourism industry toward sustainable growth.
The Statistical and Economic Analysis of Uganda’s Tourism Expenditure and Motivation Survey 2019 highlights the country’s diverse offerings from national parks and mountain gorillas to scenic hiking trails, water-based adventures, and rich cultural and religious heritage.
Tourism continues to play a critical role in Uganda’s economy.
In 2022, the sector supported over 610,800 jobs representing a 6.5% increase from 2019 demonstrating its growing impact on employment and livelihoods.
Source Nile Post
