Uganda’s tourism receipts have hit an all-time high in the past year for the first time since the pre-COVID-19 levels after the sector recorded an 89.2 per cent rebound supported by more tourist arrivals.
This new data is contained in the recent tourism performance statistics report 2024 released last week by the ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities under the theme ”A Year of Growth and Recovery.”
The report notes that 2024, the year under review, marked a period of remarkable recovery and growth for Uganda’s tourism sector. With international tourism bouncing back globally, Uganda’s performance stood out with a 7.7 per cent increase in international tourist arrivals and a 25.9 per cent surge in tourism earnings.
In 2024, Uganda welcomed 1.3 million international visitors, recovering to 89.2 per cent of pre-pandemic levels, courtesy of strategic marketing efforts, improved partnerships and continued investments in tourism infrastructure and conservation according to the report.
The report notes that International tourism receipts grew to US$1.28 billion (UGX 4.8 trillion), up from US$1.025 billion in 2023, contributing 16 per cent of Uganda’s total exports.
Doreen Katusiime, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, highlighted the positive shift towards high-value tourism, with international visitors staying longer (average 8.7 nights) and spending more (about US$ 125 per day).
The value per tourist hit an all-time high, reflecting the Ministry’s deliberate strategy to attract quality tourism over quantity.
“On our road to recovery of the sector, we have seen a significant increase in tourist arrivals to Uganda, which had fallen to an all-time low of 473,085 tourists in 2020. Most of the visitors are from African countries such as Kenya, Rwanda, and South Sudan, as well as overseas visitors from the United States, India, and the United Kingdom, among others,” she said.
She added that 2024 marked an increase in the average length of stay and expenditure of tourists in Uganda.
“This means tourists are staying longer in the country and spending more. This has a significant impact on our foreign exchange earnings and the Balance of Payments of the Country. Tourism also greatly impacted employment, GDP, and investment in the country,” she said.
Leisure tourism saw an increase, with its share rising from 16% to 19%, driven by targeted marketing campaigns such as the Explore Uganda — Pearl of Africa.
Additionally, domestic tourism participation grew by 5.2%, with 2.8 million Ugandans exploring the country’s national parks, cultural sites, and other key attractions.
The year was also marked by significant recognition at the international level: For example, Uganda was voted the “Most Desirable Country in the Rest of the World” by Wanderlust Travel Awards 2024.
The country featured among the Top 4 places to visit in 2024 by Bradt Guides. It was also listed as a top travel destination by CNN, National Geographic, The New York Times, and Lonely Planet.
In 2024, Uganda’s key source markets for international tourists included India, the USA, China, the UK, and Canada, while top regional markets remained Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Burundi, and Eritrea.
According to the report, notably, leisure travelers from the USA, UK, Germany, Kenya, and Rwanda led the pack, showcasing a strong blend of long-haul and regional interests.
The Ministry also highlighted the significant role tourism plays in Uganda’s economy, including direct contribution to GDP was UGX 6.06 trillion (3.2%). The sector’s employment amounted to 803,000 jobs (approximately 7.2% of total employment).
Tourism investments on the one hand grew by UGX 7.5 billion (17.2% of the national total) and there has been an increase in infrastructure such as the Source of the Nile pier, cultural site maintenance, electric fencing in national parks, and the introduction of star-rated hotels, now totaling 83 nationwide, all strengthening Uganda’s tourism appeal.
The tourism industry remains a key pillar of Uganda’s economy. In the forthcoming 4th National Development Plan (NDP IV), the sector is identified as an anchor sector to create jobs, improve standards of living, and promote inclusive development across the country.
According to future projections for FY 2024/25, government, through the tourism ministry will be seeking to complete key infrastructure projects, including the Source of the Nile Glass Bridge and Rwenzori Mountain Shelters.
Others are to expand global media campaigns on international media outlets such as CNN, BBC, and YouTube , among others; Promote MICE tourism through international expos and conferences, as well as advance wildlife conservation and heritage site protection.
With targeted efforts in sustainability, high-value tourism, and infrastructure development, Uganda is poised to exceed 1.6 million tourist arrivals by 2025.
