Uganda has opened a fresh push for tourism and investment partnerships in China, with the country’s embassy in Beijing hosting the “Pearl of Africa: Uganda–Hangzhou Tourism and Investment Conference” in Hangzhou.
The conference, held on June 17, 2026, at WTC Narada Hotel, brought together Ugandan officials, Chinese government representatives, investors, tourism operators and business leaders to explore opportunities in tourism, hospitality, technology and investment.
Uganda’s Ambassador to China, Oliver Wonekha, officially opened the meeting alongside Lu Jun, Deputy District Chief of the Xihu District People’s Government.
Ambassador Wonekha said Uganda is seeking partnerships that can grow its tourism sector, attract quality investment and strengthen business links with Chinese cities such as Hangzhou.
Hangzhou is one of China’s leading tourism and technology centres, with a strong digital economy, hotel industry and innovation base. The discussions focused on how its experience in smart tourism, hotel management, digital solutions and investment financing can support Uganda’s tourism ambitions.
Ambassador Richard Kabonero, Head of the Regional Economic Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, made a case for investment in Uganda, pointing to opportunities in tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, mineral development, renewable energy, infrastructure and ICT.
He said Uganda’s location in East Africa, young population, improving business environment and access to regional and international markets make it a strong destination for investors.
“Uganda offers tremendous opportunities for investors seeking sustainable and high-growth ventures. By combining Uganda’s rich natural and tourism assets with Hangzhou’s expertise in technology, innovation, hospitality management and investment capital, we can build partnerships that create value for both sides while contributing to sustainable economic development,” Ambassador Kabonero said.
The conference ended with the signing of several memoranda of understanding between Ugandan and Hangzhou-based partners. The agreements cover hotel development, tour operator partnerships, technology cooperation and tourism promotion.
Ugandan officials said the agreements are expected to support tourism flows, strengthen business links and contribute to the development of modern tourism infrastructure and services in Uganda.
The Embassy of Uganda in Beijing said the Hangzhou meeting is part of efforts to deepen economic cooperation between Uganda and China beyond central government relations, with greater focus on city-level partnerships, investment and tourism.
