Kampala, (UG):- The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Thomas Tayebwa has pledged enhanced government commitment to Uganda’s tourism sector, vowing increased funding and prioritisation to transform it into a key economic driver.
Tayebwa who was speaking as the Chief Guest at the Ekkula Sustainable Tourism Awards 2024 held at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala on Friday, 15 November, acknowledged the sector’s resilience despite insufficient government support.
“Even with limited funding, you are doing a tremendous job. You are travelling all over the world, marketing our country and delivering a masterpiece that is attracting many people to this beautiful country of ours,” he commended.
The Deputy Speaker announced that starting in the next financial year, the government will treat tourism as a priority, recognising its immense potential to boost Uganda’s economy, noting that tourism, alongside agriculture, minerals, and science and technology, has been earmarked as a focus area under the “ATM” sectors, aimed at exponentially increasing national revenue.
“We have resolved to make tourism a priority. Last financial year, the sector brought in $1.4 billion. But we envision tourism contributing $50 billion by 2050. This requires heavy investment, and the government is ready to step up,” he remarked.
Tayebwa further highlighted key areas of investment, including marketing, branding, and infrastructure development. He revealed plans for more airports and aerodromes, including partnerships to build an airport in Kasese under a public-private partnership model.
Additionally, there will be a focus on digital infrastructure in national parks and other tourist attractions to enhance interconnectivity. “It is high time we came in. If we are to milk a cow, we must feed it. We cannot achieve much by merely giving speeches. We are now walking the talk,” he said authoritatively.
Tayebwa also called for patriotism when it comes to matters of the country. “Whether in religion or politics, Uganda remains your country. We must work together for its success,” he emphasised.
The Ekkula Sustainable Tourism Awards celebrated achievements in the sector, with President Yoweri Museveni receiving the Ekkula Sustainable Lifetime Achiever Award 2024 for his role in promoting tourism.
Eliot Mugisha, the founder of Rambura Safaris was awarded the sustainable tourism youth championship equally for his role in promoting tourism in Uganda.
As Uganda aims for economic transformation, Tayebwa assured the tourism community that their efforts would no longer go unsupported. “The next billionaires will come from tourism. We are committed to making this sector a top contributor to our economy,” he said.
He emphasised the need to improve Kampala, often the first point of contact for international visitors, describing it as the “sitting room of the country.” Tayebwa underscored the importance of cleanliness, infrastructure, and modern utilities to make the capital more welcoming.
“We cannot have a dirty Kampala or one with potholes and expect people to appreciate our country. The moment you land in Entebbe, the experience must be transformative. We have invested heavily in decongesting the city, and this must reflect in its overall look,” he concluded.
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