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Uganda's tourism industry has picked up the pace again according to the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA) annual report of 2023.
Tourist arrivals skyrocketed by 56.4% compared to the previous year, a sign of the sector's resilience after the global pandemic. The report shows that the number of tourist arrivals jumped from 814,508 in 2022 to 1,274,210 in 2023.
This however, is still well below the pre-Covid19 period when the arrivals peaked at 1,542,620 before dropping to 473,085 the following year.
Of these, 1,115,169 visited key tourist attractions. The leading tourist attraction in 2023 was UWEC with 619,164 visitors.
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Minister Tom Butime
Tourism Minister Tom Butime while releasing the report, attributed the growth to among others, Uganda's diverse offerings, from breathtaking national parks to vibrant cultural experiences, continue to captivate international visitors.
Strategic marketing campaigns like "Explore Uganda - The Pearl of Africa" are also credited with boosting awareness, while strong partnerships across the tourism industry further fueled the recovery.
Africa Leads the Charge, Overseas Markets Show Promise
The report reveals that Africa remains the primary source of tourists, contributing a significant 89.2% of total arrivals.
This is complemented by a positive uptick from key overseas markets like the United States, United Kingdom, and India. International tourist arrivals reached 82.6% of pre-pandemic levels, a significant milestone for the sector.
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Arrivals
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Arrivals
According to the report, the number of International Tourist arrivals from the U.S., Europe and China grew from 46,907 in 2022 to 67,252 last year.
Tourism: A Cornerstone of Uganda's Economy
The positive trend extends beyond visitor numbers. Tourism's economic impact is undeniable. The sector directly supports over 610,806 jobs, a 6.5% increase compared to 2019. Furthermore, tourism's contribution to Uganda's GDP underscores its critical role in the nation's economic well-being.
Accommodation on the Rise
The report also highlights a rise in accommodation occupancy rates, reaching a national average of 53.9% in 2023. This surge is fueled by a combination of factors, including increased domestic tourism and the return of international travelers.
Unveiling Uganda's Treasures
Uganda's captivating tourist attractions continue to enthrall visitors. In 2023, over 1.1 million tourists explored these destinations, with UWEC (likely referring to Uganda Wildlife Education Centre) taking the top spot with 619,164 visitors.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Future for Ugandan Tourism
The 2023 tourism report paints a picture of a resurgent industry. With a continued focus on strategic marketing, fostering partnerships, and preserving Uganda's unique treasures, the future of Ugandan tourism appears bright.