Uganda sees 11% increase in Kenyan tourists

The increasing interest of Kenyans visiting the country is mainly due to various events that take place in the country such as golf and rugby tournaments, festivals and music concerts.

“Kenya is Uganda’s leading source market for tourists; however, Uganda is Kenya’s second biggest source market for tourists,” the report indicated.

"For Ugandans, the main reason for visiting Kenya is to enjoy beaches and coastal scenery and features, attend meetings and also for educational purposes," Mukumbya said.

According to him, there is a growing number of Ugandans who visit Kenya to have their weddings or spend their honeymoon at some of the coastal hotels.

Uganda Minister of State for Foreign Affairs John Mulimba said tourism forms a very significant part of Uganda’s economy.

"It contributes more than seven per cent of our National GDP and employs a significant number of people directly or indirectly ranging from government, private sector, education tourism, leisure events promoters, professional associations, and individuals to training institutions," Mulimba said.

He encouraged missions abroad to incorporate tourism within their strategic plans and annual work plans.

He also said the country possesses some unique tourism products like Namugongo Martyrs Shrines, the Source of the River Nile, and rich culture among others that can be used to make it one of the world’s leading tourist destinations.

He further said the improved air connection between Entebbe and Mombasa has aided the increasing number of tourists between Uganda and Kenya Coast.

Currently, Uganda Airlines operates three direct flights weekly between Entebbe and Mombasa.