Uganda is stepping up efforts to position itself as a leading global tourism hub, with the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities announcing that the 6th Bi-Annual Private Sector CEO Retreat will be held in Fort Portal City from 9th to 11th September 2025.
Organized under the Presidential CEO Forum (PCF) and hosted by H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the retreat will bring together government leaders, private sector executives, and tourism stakeholders to explore strategies aimed at transforming Uganda into a preferred tourism destination.
Themed “Transforming Uganda into a Preferred Tourism Destination: Enhancing public-private sector investment in infrastructure, preserve flora and fauna, digitalisation, product diversification, marketing, and tourist safety”, the event seeks to accelerate partnerships between government and business leaders to unlock Uganda’s vast tourism potential.
Tourism as a Growth Engine
Speaking at the official launch of the retreat at the Uganda Media Centre recently, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, described the retreat as a landmark moment in strengthening collaboration between the government and the private sector.
“Tourism is not only a driver of GDP, jobs, and foreign exchange, but it is also a catalyst for inclusive growth, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability,” Hon. Bahinduka noted.
He highlighted Uganda’s unique natural and cultural assets, including the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, the Source of the Nile, the endangered mountain gorillas of Bwindi, and the country’s rich cultural heritage. However, he stressed that fully tapping into this potential requires strategic investment in infrastructure, digitalisation, destination branding, and service delivery.
Strengthening Public-Private Collaboration
The retreat will serve as a high-level platform for co-creating actionable solutions that will boost the competitiveness of Uganda’s tourism industry. According to Hon. Bahinduka, the Presidential CEO Forum has been instrumental in fostering dialogue, innovation, and investment aligned with national tourism priorities.
“This retreat is more than a forum for reflection and strategy; it represents our national ambition,” the minister said. “The private sector must continue to play a central role as a co-pilot in developing Uganda’s tourism.”
He further revealed that the government is prioritizing destination marketing, product innovation, and the digital transformation of the tourism value chain to attract high-value visitors and ensure Uganda competes effectively on the global stage.
President Museveni’s Vision for Tourism
Echoing President Museveni’s position on tourism, Hon. Bahinduka emphasized that Uganda’s appeal extends beyond its wildlife and natural scenery to its people and peaceful environment.
“Tourism is not only about wildlife and scenery but also about people and peace,” he said. “Uganda must continue to position itself as the Pearl of Africa by ensuring that tourists come, stay longer, spend more, and return with friends.”
Timing with National Tourism Month
The retreat coincides with Uganda’s National Tourism Month in September, a period dedicated to showcasing the country’s diverse attractions and emerging tourism products.
The event is expected to complement ongoing promotional activities, boost stakeholder engagement, and highlight Uganda’s readiness to host more international visitors.
The CEO Retreat will also place special emphasis on infrastructure investment, tourist safety, digitalisation, and product diversification, as stakeholders work together to increase Uganda’s global visibility as a competitive and sustainable destination.
Boosting Economic Development through Tourism
According to Hon. Bahinduka, tourism remains one of Uganda’s most resilient sectors, contributing significantly to the economy through GDP growth, employment creation, and foreign exchange earnings.
He noted that with strategic planning and stronger collaboration between government and the private sector, Uganda is well-positioned to unlock new tourism investments and expand its regional and global market share.
“The goal is to make Uganda a destination of choice, not just in East Africa but globally,” he said. “Through innovation, partnerships, and improved infrastructure, we aim to attract more tourists, generate higher revenues, and promote sustainable development.”
The 6th Bi-Annual Private Sector CEO Retreat is expected to generate strategic investment commitments and policy recommendations that will define the future of Uganda’s tourism industry while reinforcing its position as the Pearl of Africa.
