By Lawrence Kooko
President Yoweri Museveni has called for reforms in Uganda’s visa regime, saying easier travel access is critical for growing tourism and attracting investment into the country.
Museveni made the remarks while officially opening the 10th edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2026 at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The three-day tourism expo has attracted international buyers, investors, tourism boards and industry stakeholders from Africa, Europe, Asia and the Americas, with Uganda showcasing its wildlife, cultural heritage, adventure tourism and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) potential.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Museveni questioned the continued issuance of short-term visas to some categories of visitors, arguing that restrictive travel policies undermine Uganda’s competitiveness in the global tourism market.
He proposed the introduction of longer multiple-entry visas and simplified travel procedures, saying countries that depend on tourism should make access easier for travellers.
The President said tourism contributes directly to employment, business growth and foreign exchange earnings through accommodation, transport, tour operations and related services.
He added that easing travel restrictions would also improve Uganda’s investment climate and strengthen the country’s position as a preferred destination in Africa.
Museveni described tourism as one of the major pillars of Uganda’s services economy alongside ICT, transport, entertainment and professional services.
He said the sector can accelerate economic growth by creating jobs, attracting foreign investment and boosting regional trade integration.
The President also linked tourism growth to East African integration, saying improved regional connectivity would strengthen Uganda’s position as a multi-destination tourism hub where visitors can easily move across borders.
Museveni highlighted Uganda’s favourable climate and geographical location, saying the country’s position on the equator combined with high altitude gives it strong tourism potential throughout the year.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Doreen Katusiime, said Uganda’s tourism sector has recovered beyond pre-pandemic levels.
She attributed the recovery to investments in infrastructure, security, air transport connectivity and digital systems.
Katusiime said improvements in roads, airports and Uganda Airlines routes, alongside ongoing visa digitisation reforms, are helping ease travel into the country.
Uganda Tourism Association President Yogi Birigwa called on government to operationalise a dedicated tourism fund to support destination marketing, product development and quality improvement.
Meanwhile, Uganda Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Juliana Kagwa said POATE 2026 is intended to connect local tourism operators with international buyers and investors while showcasing Uganda’s tourism potential.
POATE remains Uganda’s main tourism business-to-business platform, bringing together local operators, investors and global travel buyers.
This year’s edition features exhibitions, networking sessions, investment forums and cultural showcases aimed at increasing Uganda’s visibility as a tourism destination.
