Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Executive Director, Dr James Musinguzi, has urged investors and development partners to tap into the immense opportunities within Uganda’s protected areas, describing them as critical to the country’s tourism growth and sustainable development.
Dr Musinguzi made the remarks while speaking at the UK-Uganda Investment Forum in London, where he highlighted Uganda’s unique natural attractions, including mountain gorillas, diverse birdlife, and iconic national parks, as ideal for responsible investment in tourism, conservation infrastructure, and nature-based enterprises.
He is part of the Ugandan delegation that travelled on the inaugural Uganda Airlines direct flight to London Gatwick, led by the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen Katumba Wamala.
While making the case for increased investment in the sector, Dr Musinguzi raised concern over existing travel advisories from some foreign governments, which he said do not reflect the prevailing peace and security in Uganda.
“Uganda has made significant progress in ensuring visitor safety across all protected areas. We believe it is time for these travel advisories to be reviewed and aligned with the current reality,” he said. “Maintaining outdated warnings sends the wrong signal and undermines tourism recovery efforts.”
He called for open engagement between the concerned countries to ensure that travel advice is factual and supports the growth of tourism as a vital contributor to livelihoods and conservation.
The UK-Uganda Investment Forum brings together leaders from government and business to explore avenues for increased trade, investment, and collaboration.
Dr Musinguzi reaffirmed UWA’s commitment to working with investors to develop eco-friendly tourism ventures that benefit both conservation and communities.