The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has signed three major concession agreements with private investors to develop and manage high-end tourism infrastructure in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley national parks.
The deals, signed on March 27, 2025, represent a direct investment of over USD 28.5 million (approximately Shs104.3bn) into Uganda’s tourism sector.
Presiding over the ceremony, Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, hailed the development as a strong step forward for Uganda’s tourism industry.
“These agreements are a strong signal that Uganda is open and ready for responsible investment in tourism,” said Hon. Mugarra. “The projects will improve the quality of our tourism products, generate revenue for conservation, and create meaningful jobs for our people.”
The concession agreements were signed on behalf of UWA by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Professor James Kalema, who welcomed the new investors and stressed the importance of responsible development.
“We urge all concessionaires to prioritize environmental diligence,” said Prof. Kalema. “Environmental Impact Assessments must be carried out by qualified professionals, and mitigation measures should be strictly implemented to protect these fragile ecosystems.”
UWA’s Executive Director, Sam Mwandha, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to balancing conservation with sustainable development.
“We are very deliberate in selecting partners who align with our conservation goals. These investments underwent rigorous review, and we will continue to monitor them closely to ensure they benefit wildlife protection as well as the national economy,” Mwandha stated.
The concession projects include:
Kagobed Holdings Ltd will redevelop and operate the iconic Jacana Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park under the Serena Hotels brand. The USD 7 million investment will deliver a luxury facility with modern accommodation, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) infrastructure, a helipad, a health club, and other top-tier amenities.
Tian Tang Group will invest USD 20 million to develop a Glass Bridge and a 50-seater Restaurant at the Top of the Falls in Murchison Falls National Park. The project aims to create a world-class attraction and offer visitors a unique, panoramic experience of the falls.
Russell Hall Ltd. will construct a USD 1.5 million luxury lodge in Kidepo Valley National Park, in partnership with the French hotel chain TUI Blue, known for international standards in eco-tourism and comfort.
“These developments are aligned with our vision to position Uganda as a premier eco-tourism destination on the African continent,” said Prof. Kalema. “They will not only enhance visitor experience but also contribute to local economies and conservation efforts.”
The investors have committed to fulfilling all concession requirements, including environmental and social safeguards, and pledged to have the facilities operational within timelines ranging from two to five years.
UWA’s latest move signals a strategic push to attract high-quality investment that aligns with the country’s long-term goals of sustainable tourism and conservation.