Kampala, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Uganda anticipates a resurgence in tourism revenue, projected to return to pre-COVID standards by year-end, driven by an 83.4 percent recovery propelled by tourist arrivals.
As per the 2024 Tourism Trend and Statistics Report released on Tuesday, international tourism earnings surged by 48.5 percent, reaching $1.025 billion last year, constituting 83.4 percent of the $1.6 billion registered in 2019.
Authorities attribute this growth to increased arrivals from Africa and key overseas markets such as the United Kingdom, United States, and India.
Over the past three years, Uganda has actively promoted its destinations in Southern and Western Africa, while Uganda Airlines has expanded its African network with new routes.
Kenya, Rwanda, and South Sudan maintained their positions as Uganda’s top African source markets, collectively accounting for 80 percent of African arrivals in 2023.
Doreen Katusiime, the Permanent Secretary for Tourism, noted, “Through the concerted efforts of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, in collaboration with its agencies and the private sector, we have witnessed a recovery of the industry. International arrivals have increased to an impressive 82.6 percent of pre-pandemic levels.”
Domestic tourism also saw a 25.3 percent increase in 2023, with more Ugandans exploring national parks and recreational centers.
Tourism, a vital sector contributing 4.7 percent to Uganda’s GDP, was severely impacted by the pandemic but employed over 620,000 people directly or indirectly.
With continued growth, direct tourism revenues could surpass 2019 levels by the end of 2024, according to the report.
However, industry stakeholders advocate for increased government funding, citing the need for site upgrades, maintenance, and development, participation in international events, and implementing marketing strategies.
Globally, tourism is rebounding, with Asia and Africa leading the recovery, according to the World Tourism Organization. Preliminary estimates indicate international tourism receipts reached $1.4 trillion in 2023, nearing 93 percent of pre-pandemic earnings.
