By Frank Kamuntu
As global competition for sustainable tourism investment intensifies, Uganda is making a strategic play to position its natural heritage as a cornerstone of its economic diplomacy. Speaking at the UK-Uganda Investment Forum in London, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi made a compelling case for investing in Uganda’s protected areas—not just as tourism destinations, but as engines for sustainable development, community empowerment, and global partnerships.
Dr. Musinguzi was part of a high-level Ugandan delegation led by Minister of Works and Transport Gen. Katumba Wamala, which marked a milestone with Uganda Airlines’ inaugural direct flight to London Gatwick. The symbolism was not lost: as Uganda lands directly in the heart of Europe, it is also angling for direct investment into its untapped ecological capital.
“Uganda’s protected areas are more than tourist attractions—they are critical national assets that can drive inclusive development and conservation-based enterprise,” Dr. Musinguzi told a room of potential investors and development partners. From the rare mountain gorillas of Bwindi to over 1,000 bird species and breathtaking landscapes, he pitched Uganda as a frontier market for eco-conscious investment.
Beyond highlighting natural beauty, Dr. Musinguzi addressed a more delicate subject—travel advisories from some foreign governments, including the UK, which he said are outdated and misrepresent the country’s current security status.
“Uganda has made significant progress in ensuring safety in all our protected areas. It’s time for these advisories to reflect the reality on the ground,” he asserted. “We urge our partners to update their assessments through open and accurate dialogue.”
His message was clear: inaccurate travel warnings not only discourage tourists but also derail broader efforts to attract conservation-sensitive investment. Dr. Musinguzi emphasized that stability, not risk, now defines Uganda’s parks and tourism infrastructure.
The UK-Uganda Investment Forum, designed to bolster bilateral trade and partnerships, provided an ideal platform to recalibrate international perceptions of Uganda. For the Uganda Wildlife Authority, it was also a moment to extend an open hand to global investors looking to align profit with purpose.
“UWA is ready to work hand-in-hand with investors interested in responsible tourism ventures that not only conserve biodiversity but also uplift communities living around protected areas,” he said.
With Uganda doubling down on conservation-led growth, the message from London is unmistakable: the Pearl of Africa is open for eco-investment—and it wants the world to see it not as a risk, but as a rising opportunity.
