A high-level United Kingdom delegation has advanced efforts to strengthen tourism, trade and investment collaboration between Uganda and the UK following a strategic engagement with the Uganda Tourism Board in Jinja.
The delegation, led by Laurence Robertson, Chief Executive Officer of the Westminster Africa Business Association, held discussions with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) represented by Chief Executive Officer Juliana Kagwa and former board chairperson Daudi Migereko.
The meeting took place at the Source of the Nile in Jinja on February 16, 2026.
The evening engagement provided a platform for dialogue on strengthening bilateral relations through sustainable tourism, adventure product development, infrastructure investment and community-led growth.
The UK delegation is in Uganda at the invitation of Prime Minister Robina Nabbanja on behalf of the President.
Robertson described the engagement as exceptionally productive and expressed appreciation for the experiences and opportunities witnessed during the visit.
He pledged to promote Uganda’s attractions and world-class adventure offerings to UK investors, tour operators, businesses and leisure travellers upon his return.
Kagwa highlighted the strategic importance of the visit, noting that the engagement reflects growing international confidence in Uganda’s tourism potential.
“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,” she said.
Uganda’s tourism sector has recorded strong recovery and growth in recent years. In 2024, the country welcomed about 1.37 million international visitors, representing a 7.7 percent increase from 1.27 million visitors in 2023.
International tourism receipts reached a record US$1.28 billion, up from US$1.025 billion the previous year, contributing approximately 16 percent of Uganda’s total exports.
The sector’s direct contribution to Gross Domestic Product stood at UGX 6.06 trillion while supporting an estimated 803,000 jobs across the country.
The engagement aligns with UTB’s mandate to target premium markets such as the United Kingdom, promote responsible tourism practices and attract investments that safeguard natural and cultural heritage while delivering socio-economic benefits.
Tourism officials say the positive momentum from the visit is expected to further strengthen UK–Uganda relations in tourism and related sectors as Uganda continues to position itself as a leading adventure and nature-based destination.
