Uganda Unveils the National Tourism Policy 2025

Kampala, 26 November 2025

The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has launched the Uganda National Tourism Policy (2025), a strategic framework aimed at boosting competitiveness, strengthening resilience, and positioning Uganda among Africa’s top five tourist destinations.

Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Tourism, Tom Butime, called the policy “a decisive turning point for Uganda’s tourism future,” noting that it aligns with Vision 2040, the National Development Plan IV, and the Ten-Fold Growth Strategy.

“Uganda is abundantly gifted, but potential is not progress,” the Minister said. “This policy gives us the roadmap to translate our cultural and natural wealth into real investment, real jobs and real earnings.”

The policy prioritizes high-growth segments such as MICE tourism, AFCON 2027 opportunities, cultural tourism, oil and gas corridor tourism and youth-driven digital innovation. It also emphasizes safety, product development, destination branding and improved investment frameworks.

The Permanent Secretary Doreen S. Katusiime described the new policy as “a national blueprint for transformation.”

“Tourism must now be mainstreamed across all sectors,” she said. “Every road built, every investment approved and every innovation funded must support Uganda’s tourism value chain. The framework is in place, now it is time for action.”

She acknowledged the World Bank’s support through the Competitiveness and Enterprise Development Programme (CEDP), and commended UTB, UWA, UHTTC and UWRTC for leading conservation, marketing and skills development efforts.

The Ministry emphasized that with coordinated implementation, the sector could generate at least USD 4 billion annually and expand employment opportunities for Ugandans.

The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) President Yogi Birigwa welcomed the policy, describing it as the clarity the private sector has long awaited to build a sustainable and competitive industry. She highlighted the need for strong inter-agency coordination, continued private-sector involvement in implementation and the removal of persistent bottlenecks such as licensing hurdles, taxation issues, skills shortages and investment barriers.

Birigwa emphasized that effective implementation will depend on unified action from Government, industry players and communities, noting that the UTA “stands ready” to support the policy’s vision.

The launch of the Uganda National Tourism Policy 2025 marks a pivotal commitment to turning the country’s vast natural and cultural endowments into a powerful engine of inclusive growth. With clear direction, strengthened partnerships and renewed national resolve, Uganda is now poised to elevate its global standing and unlock the full potential of its tourism sector for generations to come.