Jinja, Uganda, 17, Feb, 2026. A high-level United Kingdom delegation led by Laurence Robertson, CEO of the Westminster Africa Business Association (WABA) on trade, investment, and tourism held a highly fruitful engagement with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), represented by CEO Juliana Kagwa and former Board Chairperson Hon. Daudi Migereko, at the Source of the Nile in Jinja on February 16, 2026. The evening provided a conducive setting for substantive dialogue on strengthening bilateral ties through sustainable tourism, adventure product development, infrastructure investment, and community-led growth. The group is in Uganda on invitation.
Laurence Robertson, who described the engagement as exceptionally productive, expressed appreciation for the experiences and opportunities observed, pledging to actively share the remarkable attractions and world-class adventures with UK investors, tour operators, businesses, and leisure travelers upon return. Juliana Kagwa highlighted the visit’s strategic value, saying,
“This high-level engagement reflects growing international confidence in Uganda’s unique tourism. By showcasing authentic experiences, we are forging lasting partnerships that promote responsible tourism, drive inclusive economic growth, and reinforce Uganda’s position as a regional leader in adventure and nature-based travel.”
Uganda’s tourism sector has shown robust recovery and growth in recent years. In 2024, the country welcomed approximately 1.37 million international visitors (a 7.7 per cent increase from 2023’s 1.27 million), with international tourism receipts reaching a record US$1.28 billion (up 25.9 percent from US$1.025 billion in 2023). This contributed about 16 percent of Uganda’s total exports. The sector’s direct contribution to GDP was UGX 6.06 trillion, while it supported 803,000 jobs.
This engagement aligns with UTB’s mandate to target premium markets such as the UK, advance responsible tourism practices, and attract investments that protect natural and cultural heritage while delivering socio-economic benefits.
The positive momentum from this visit is anticipated to further strengthen UK-Uganda ties in tourism and related sectors. The Uganda Tourism Board remains committed to facilitating such impactful initiatives to sustain sector growth, expand Uganda’s global footprint, and position the country as the Pearl of Africa for adventure and nature-based travel.
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