TOURISM MINISTRY EYES SECOND PHASE OF REDEVELOPMENT OF SOURCE OF THE NILE PROJECT TO HIT GLOBAL COMPETITIVENESS TARGET.

The Government of Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to reposition the Source of the Nile as a world-class tourism attraction, with significant infrastructure upgrades nearing completion under a phased development plan aimed at increasing visitor numbers, length of stay and tourist expenditure.

This follows an official supervisory visit by the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Col Tom Butime, during the ongoing top management retreat in Jinja. The visit provided first-hand oversight of progress at one of Uganda’s most iconic tourism sites, the Source of the Nile.

The River Nile, the longest river in the world, stretches approximately 6,650 kilometres and flows through 11 countries, making its source in Uganda a site of immense geographical and historical significance. However, for years, the site has struggled to retain visitors due to limited on-site experiences.

Speaking during the visit, Minister Butime emphasized the strategic importance of the redevelopment project in unlocking Uganda’s tourism potential. “The Source of the Nile is one of the most powerful natural assets Uganda possesses. By investing in modern, world-class infrastructure, we are not only enhancing the visitor experience but also positioning Jinja as a leading adventure tourism hub on the continent,” he said. “This project is central to our efforts to increase tourist arrivals, extend their stay and ultimately boost tourism revenues.”

Permanent Secretary Doreen Katusiime noted that the redevelopment addresses longstanding gaps that previously limited the site’s appeal.

“Historically, many visitors came to the Source of the Nile once and did not return because there was little to do beyond viewing the site. This transformation is deliberate; government is investing in diversified experiences to ensure repeat visitation and greater economic value,” she explained.

According to Mrs Katusiime, Phase One of the project, now at 98 percent completion, has been undertaken at a cost of approximately UGX 15 billion. The works include a modern pier, upgraded restaurants, improved washroom facilities, a glass viewing deck, and extensive beautification of the surrounding environment.

Site engineers highlighted that the first phase has also delivered critical civil works, including foundational layers, a parking area, and landscaped public spaces designed to enhance accessibility and comfort for visitors.

“We have completed the core structural components under Phase One, including external civil works and visitor support infrastructure. The site is now significantly more functional and aesthetically appealing,” the engineers noted.

The upcoming Phase Two, projected to cost an additional UGX 26 billion, will further elevate the site with new features such as floating jetties, nature walkways along the riverbank, an amphitheatre and improved road networks to ease access.

Officials say these enhancements are aligned with Uganda’s broader tourism development strategy, which prioritizes product diversification and infrastructure development to compete more effectively on the global stage.

The redevelopment is expected to significantly transform Jinja into a premier adventure tourism destination, building on its reputation for activities such as white- water rafting, kayaking and bungee jumping. By creating a more immersive and experience-rich environment at the Source of the Nile, government aims to reverse trends of short stays and low visitor spend.

As Uganda continues to position itself as a competitive tourism destination, the Source of the Nile project stands out as a flagship investment, one that blends natural heritage with modern infrastructure to deliver a compelling, world-class visitor experience.

GALLERY