By Uganda’s tourism sector is poised for a significant boost with the signing of three major concession agreements by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The agreements, valued at over $28.5 million, will see the development of luxury hotels, a state-of-the-art Glass Bridge, and a 50-seater restaurant at Murchison Falls National Park and other key national parks.
According to the UWA, the investments will not only enhance the quality of tourism products but also generate revenue for conservation and create meaningful jobs for locals.
“This is a strong signal that Uganda is open and ready for responsible investment in tourism,” said Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities.
Currently, Uganda’s tourist attractions, including Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park, have limited 5-star services. Statistics show that only 12% of hotels and lodges around these attractions offer 5-star services, while 30% offer 4-star services and 58% provide 3-star services or lower.
The Tian Tang Group, a well-established investor in Uganda, will develop the Glass Bridge and restaurant at the Top of the Falls in Murchison Falls National Park, representing a $20 million investment. Kagobed Holdings Ltd will redevelop and operate Jacana Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park under the Serena Hotels brand, investing $7 million. Russell Hall Ltd will develop a luxury lodge in Kidepo Valley National Park, with an investment of $1.5 million.
Professor James Kalema, Chairman of the UWA Board of Trustees, emphasized the importance of environmental sustainability. “We are excited to work with investors who value not only business growth but also ecological integrity. These investments were rigorously reviewed and will be closely monitored to ensure they deliver value to both wildlife protection and the national economy.”
UWA Executive Director Sam Mwandha reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to balancing conservation and development. “We are deliberate about choosing partners who align with our conservation goals. These investments will improve the quality of our tourism products, generate revenue for conservation, and create meaningful jobs for our people.”
The investments are expected to attract high-end tourists seeking unique and luxurious experiences. With the development of these new facilities, Uganda’s tourism sector is poised to experience significant growth, with projections indicating a 20% increase in tourist arrivals over the next two years.
