By Willy Chowoo
These projects will upgrade tourism facilities while ensuring minimal environmental impact.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) on Thursday 27th March, 2025 signed key investment agreements aimed at enhancing conservation efforts and boosting Uganda’s eco-tourism industry. The deals, announced during a high-level event, include multi-million-dollar projects designed to balance environmental sustainability with economic development.
The three investors committed to fulfilling all concession requirements and pledged to have the facilities operational within the agree timelines of two to five years. The developments represent a total direct investment of over USD 28.5 Million (≈ sh102 billion) into Uganda’s tourism sector.
The agreements include a $7 million (sh25.5 billion) redevelopment of Jaca
na Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park by Kagobed Holdings Ltd under the Serena Hotels brand, and a $1.5 million (sh5.5 billion) investment in Kidepo Savannah Lodge by Kipedo Holdings Ltd. Tian Tang Group will develop a Glass bridge and a 50-seater Restaurant on top Murchison Falls National Park at $ 20 million (sh72.9 billion)
Presiding over the ceremony, Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, emphasized the government’s commitment to responsible tourism. “This is a strong signal that Uganda is open and ready for responsible investment in tourism. The projects will improve on the quality our tourism products, generate revenues for conservation, and create a meaningful job for our people”, he said.
Prof. James Kalema, Chairperson of UWA’s Board of Trustees, underscored the importance of sustainable development. “We are excited to work with investors who vale not only business growth but also ecological integrity. I urge all concessionaries to ensure that Environment Impact Assessment are conducted by professionals and all development take into account the sensitive of the ecosystems in which they operate,” he stated.
UWA’s Executive Director, Sam Mwandha, reaffirmed the authority’s strict monitoring of these investments. “We are deliberate about choosing partners who align with our conservation goals. These investments were rigorously revived and will be closely monitored to ensure they deliver value to both wildlife protection and national economy”, he added
The signing of these agreements marks a significant milestone in UWA’s long-term vision to position Uganda as a leading eco-tourism destination while preserving its rich biodiversity.
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