KAMPALA — Uganda will join the rest of the world in celebrating World Tourism Day on September 27, 2025, with national events set to take place in Arua City, West Nile. The announcement was made in Parliament by the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra, who tabled a statement detailing government’s preparations.
Minister Mugarra said the choice of Arua is deliberate, aimed at showcasing the untapped tourism potential of the West Nile region while integrating the area more strongly into Uganda’s national tourism development agenda. “By bringing the celebrations to Arua City, we want to showcase the tourism opportunities of the West Nile region and integrate the region more strongly into the national tourism development agenda,” he stated.
The minister lauded government for steadily increasing the tourism budget in recent years, saying this has supported interventions such as improved marketing, infrastructure development around tourism sites, and wildlife conservation programs. He argued that such investments are paying off by enhancing Uganda’s profile as the “Pearl of Africa” on the global tourism map.
Responding to concerns raised by Koboko Municipality MP, Dr. Charles Ayume, who pointed out gaps in tourism marketing, Hon. Mugarra emphasized that ongoing campaigns — including “Explore Uganda” — are designed to reach both domestic and international markets. He added that partnerships with airlines, digital platforms, and tour operators are expanding Uganda’s visibility to new audiences.
This year’s celebrations will not only highlight Uganda’s national parks, heritage sites, and cultural tourism but also promote West Nile’s unique attractions such as Mount Wati, Ajai Wildlife Reserve, Arua Hill cultural heritage, and the region’s vibrant cross-border trade routes.
According to the ministry, the event will feature exhibitions, cultural showcases, investment forums, and guided tours aimed at boosting both domestic and regional tourism.
World Tourism Day 2025 will run under the global theme set by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), focusing on sustainable growth and inclusivity. Uganda’s choice of Arua signals government’s intention to ensure tourism development benefits all regions, while positioning the sector as a key driver of job creation, investment, and foreign exchange earnings.
