In a bold move to elevate Uganda’s global tourism profile, the government has allocated Shs 41.12 billion to the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities for the final quarter of the 2024/25 financial year.
This funding, part of a broader Shs 19.79 trillion national budget release for April to June 2025, underscores tourism’s rising importance in Uganda’s economic agenda.
The allocation represents 25.64% of the revised national budget and is among the top earmarks for sector-specific infrastructure.
Ramathan Ggoobi, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, described the investment as strategic. He confirmed that the funds will support key infrastructure projects, including the high-profile Source of the Nile development.
“This funding is directed at enhancing tourism infrastructure. Projects like the Source of the Nile will unlock regional potential and foster sustainable tourism,” Ggoobi stated.
The Source of the Nile project, long touted as a game-changer, is expected to amplify Uganda’s appeal to both domestic and international tourists. It also aligns with the government’s broader goal of leveraging natural and cultural assets for inclusive economic growth.
According to the 2019 Tourism Expenditure and Motivation Survey, Uganda’s tourism portfolio includes diverse offerings—from wildlife safaris and mountain gorillas to cultural heritage sites and adrenaline-pumping river activities.
Tourism’s impact on employment is undeniable. In 2022, it supported more than 610,800 jobs—a 6.5% jump from pre-pandemic figures in 2019—demonstrating its resilience and value as a job creator.
The latest funding announcement comes as Uganda prepares to host the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2025, scheduled from 21st to 24th May at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
This year’s expo will spotlight MICE tourism—Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions—a lucrative niche that the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) is positioning as a gateway to attracting high-value global clients.
Running alongside POATE is the “Tell Your Story – Explore Uganda” campaign, a domestic tourism initiative urging Ugandans to document and share their travel experiences. The campaign aims to foster national pride while stimulating local tourism.
POATE 2025 is expected to draw over 5,000 trade visitors, 70 international buyers, and numerous exhibitors.
Business-to-business and consumer engagements will promote investment, partnerships, and showcase Uganda’s potential as a world-class destination.
With this Shs 41.12 billion investment, the government is not just funding infrastructure—it’s laying the foundation for a tourism-led economic transformation.
