By Amon Ngabo
Uganda is looking to attract more tourists and investment through the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which it will jointly host with Kenya and Tanzania.
The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has signed a partnership agreement with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to promote Uganda’s tourism attractions ahead of the tournament.
CAF official Adamu said the partnership would encourage greater involvement of the business community in the three host countries and create opportunities for businesses to benefit from the tournament.
UTB Chief Executive Officer Juliana Kagwa urged players in the tourism industry to begin preparing for the expected influx of football fans and other visitors.
Kagwa said Uganda should use the tournament to promote its wildlife, culture, food and hospitality to visitors who may be coming to the country for the first time.
“Football will bring the visitors, and for many, the tournament will be an opportunity to discover Uganda beyond ther stadium,” Kagwa said.
She said preparations should begin early to ensure that tourism operators are ready to receive visitors and market destinations across the country.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa welcomed the agreement, saying football has become a major business that supports employment, investment and trade.
Tayebwa said Uganda should not concentrate only on hosting football matches but also encourage visitors to travel to other parts of the country.
He called for improvements in transport, accommodation, security and hospitality services ahead of the tournament.
Tayebwa said Parliament would support the necessary policies, legislation and funding arrangements to help Uganda prepare for the competition.
He urged tour operators, hotels and other businesses to develop affordable packages that allow football fans to visit national parks, cultural sites and other attractions during their stay.
The Deputy Speaker also cautioned service providers against overcharging visitors, saying fair prices, good services and reliable information would encourage tourists to return.
Tayebwa said young people should also benefit from the tournament through jobs, business opportunities and skills development.
He added that the benefits of hosting AFCON should be felt by ordinary Ugandans, particularly those working in tourism, transport, accommodation and other related businesses.
Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania will jointly host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations under the Pamoja arrangement.
Uganda hopes the tournament will attract visitors who will return to explore more of the country after the competition.
