Asean tour operators impressed by Uganda’s tourist attractions

A group of tour operators from ASEAN countries recently completed a 10-day exploration of Uganda’s tourist destinations, showcasing the country’s unique appeal as a prime travel and investment location.

The tour, organized by the Ugandan High Commission in Kuala Lumpur in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aimed to promote Uganda as a top-tier destination for ASEAN nations, which include Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, and Cambodia.

Dr. Betty Oyella Bigombe, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, underscored the significance of the visit, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth for both Uganda and ASEAN countries through strategic collaborations.

“This event offers a unique opportunity for key players in the tourism sector and beyond to identify areas for partnerships. Strong collaborations with ASEAN enhance trade, create jobs, and contribute to economic development,” Dr. Bigombe stated.

She also pointed out Uganda’s favorable investment climate, citing tax incentives, supportive policies, and opportunities in infrastructure, agro-processing, mineral value addition, and oil and gas sectors.

The tourism sector, a cornerstone of Uganda’s economy, contributes 7.7% to the nation’s GDP and provides nearly 667,000 jobs, according to a 2024 report by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities.

Dorcus Namajja of the Uganda Tourism Board noted that the visit was crucial in positioning Uganda as a leading global tourism destination. “This initiative fosters a long-term relationship between Uganda and ASEAN nations, aligning with the government’s efforts to leverage foreign missions for tourism promotion,” she remarked.

During business engagements held in Kampala, ASEAN representatives explored Uganda’s thriving sectors ripe for investment. The Ugandan High Commission plans to sustain the momentum with a media promotional campaign in Malaysia and business conventions in 2025 across Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, and Bangkok.

Speaking at a dinner hosted for the delegates, Tourism State Minister Martin Mugarra Bahinduka commended the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for facilitating the visit and pledged to advocate for increased funding to support similar initiatives.

“This collaborative effort is vital for reshaping perceptions of Uganda and Africa in Asia. We must continue to invest in promoting our country as a premier destination,” Mugarra said.

The tour exemplifies Uganda’s commitment to building meaningful international partnerships, with the ASEAN market identified as a critical driver for future tourism growth.