Africa-Press – Uganda. The Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra, has called on communities in northern Uganda to embrace tourism as a catalyst for job creation, economic growth, and regional development.
Speaking during the official launch of Open Park Day 2025, a three-day nationwide initiative that granted the public free access to Uganda’s major national parks, Minister Mugarra emphasized the sector’s potential to transform local economies.
“Today, more than 100 people from Arua alone are employed in the tourism sector,” said Mugarra. “Tourism is not only critical for government revenue, but also a lifeline for many households. West Nile is a strategic region—a gateway to trade with the Democratic Republic of Congo. We must seize these opportunities.”
The event, spearheaded by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), took place from September 25 to 27 and opened five protected areas to the public: Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo, Kidepo Valley National Parks, and Pian Upe Game Reserve.
Visitors enjoyed free park entry, complimentary vehicle access, and guided game drives, while also participating in cultural showcases and conservation awareness activities.
Minister Mugarra praised local communities for preserving cultural heritage and contributing to memorable visitor experiences.
He also applauded the private sector’s growing role in tourism investment, stressing the importance of hospitality and professionalism in delivering quality services.
“Tourists will only return—and recommend Uganda—if they receive excellent service. Every interaction matters,” he noted.
Highlighting the economic importance of cross-border trade, Mugarra revealed that Uganda’s trade with South Sudan alone is valued at approximately Shs 200 billion (USD 50 million).
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, security, and regional connectivity to further stimulate tourism and commerce.
Tourism has been identified as a key pillar in Uganda’s “Ten Fold Growth Strategy,” which aims to increase national economic output from Shs 200 trillion (USD 50 billion) to Shs 2,000 trillion (USD 500 billion) by 2040. The sector currently contributes Shs 6.4 trillion (USD 1.6 billion) to GDP—representing 5.7%—and directly employs over 800,600 people.
Basir Ajer, Director of Tourism at the ministry, emphasized the need for continued diversification of Uganda’s tourism products.
“Tourism is more than wildlife—it’s our people, our cuisine, our culture, and our stability. We must enhance the quality and variety of experiences if we are to compete globally,” he said.
In a major development for conservation efforts, UWA Executive Director James Musinguzi signed a Memorandum of Understanding with EarthRanger, a real-time wildlife monitoring and ecosystem management platform developed by the Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence (AI2). The technology is expected to enhance anti-poaching operations and improve ecosystem surveillance across protected areas.
“This partnership strengthens our ability to protect Uganda’s wildlife and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come,” said Musinguzi.
Open Park Day 2025 drew thousands of Ugandans into the country’s savannah parks, blending wildlife experiences with cultural performances and environmental education. The event served as a powerful reminder that Uganda’s natural heritage is a shared treasure—and a vital driver of the country’s development agenda.
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