Uganda and India strengthen tourism ties through familiarisation trip

The Uganda High Commission in New Delhi, in collaboration with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Uganda Airlines, has successfully concluded a 10-day Indian Travel Trade Familiarisation (FAM) Trip—a landmark initiative aimed at enhancing Uganda-India tourism relations.

This strategic trip, held in late May 2025, brought a delegation of prominent Indian tour operators to Uganda to experience the country’s world-class tourism offerings firsthand. The initiative marked a significant step in deepening bilateral ties and showcasing Uganda’s rich potential as a premier African travel destination.

The FAM Trip was led by Her Excellency Prof. Joyce Kakuramatsi Kikafunda, Uganda’s High Commissioner to India, who emphasized the deep-rooted historical relationship between the two countries, noting that 2025 marks 60 years of diplomatic relations.

“This Fam Trip is a testament to our commitment to deepening tourism cooperation with India—a trusted partner and one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets,” said H.E. Kikafunda during the closing press conference.

She also reaffirmed Uganda’s Vision 2040, which aims to grow the economy tenfold to USD 500 billion, with tourism playing a central role alongside agro-industrialisation, rural development, and science, technology, and innovation.

The Indian delegation toured Uganda’s top attractions, including Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Their journey featured thrilling rhino tracking, a breathtaking Nile cruise, magical chimpanzee encounters, and stunning wildlife sightings—experiences that left a lasting impression.

The visitors praised Uganda for its natural beauty, warm hospitality, and diverse offerings, describing it as “Africa compressed into one destination.”

Mr. Upendra Singh Negi, Deputy High Commissioner of India to Uganda, lauded Uganda’s tourism appeal:

“In Uganda, you can enjoy game drives, majestic waterfalls, and boat rides on the Nile—all in one day. This is a powerful selling point that must be shared with the world,” he said.

Negi also highlighted India’s continued support for Uganda’s tourism sector, citing the 37,000 Indian tourists who visit Uganda annually and the immense potential to attract more, given India’s 30 million outbound travelers each year.

Mr. Francis Nyende, UTB’s Marketing Manager, outlined strategic goals to tap into the Indian market, including enhancing destination visibility, forming partnerships with Indian travel agencies, diversifying tourism offerings, and promoting investment in infrastructure.

“We want Uganda to be top of mind for Indian travelers. Beyond gorillas and safaris, we offer rich culture, adventure, and unmatched hospitality,” Nyende said.

He announced plans for a Uganda-India Travel Campaign, a 2026 roadshow across India, and partnerships with the Indian film industry to promote film tourism in Uganda.

Representing the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Kamahungye Elly, Director of International and Regional Economic Cooperation, emphasized the role of economic diplomacy in boosting tourism:

“Our vision is to scale Uganda’s tourism sector to USD 40 billion, and India is a key partner in that journey. If we can attract even 5 million Indian tourists, we can achieve two-thirds of this target,” he said.

Ambassador Kamahungye also encouraged Indian investment in tourism infrastructure—roads, airstrips, resorts—to enhance the visitor experience and support sustainable growth.

Indian tour operators described the trip as “thrilling,” “humbling,” and “unforgettable.” Highlights included the Nile cruise at Murchison Falls, where they saw hippos, elephants, and diverse birdlife, and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, which many called a “magical” experience. At Queen Elizabeth National Park, lion sightings and a scenic Kazinga Channel cruise were memorable moments, complemented by warm hospitality at Mweya Safari Lodge.

Uganda has made significant efforts to improve accessibility and infrastructure, including the launch of direct Uganda Airlines flights between Mumbai and Entebbe in October 2023, reducing travel time to under seven hours. The Uganda High Commission in New Delhi also issues electronic visas in under 48 hours, further simplifying travel.

Ongoing improvements to roads, domestic airports, electricity, and internet access underscore Uganda’s dedication to becoming a top global tourism destination.

The successful completion of the FAM Trip marks a new chapter in Uganda-India tourism cooperation, with both nations committed to a mutually beneficial partnership that promotes growth, investment, and cultural exchange.

The Uganda High Commission and UTB now invite Indian travelers, investors, and partners to explore The Pearl of Africa and take part in its journey toward global tourism excellence.