The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has raised concerns over what it describes as inadequate government support for Uganda’s tourism sector.
Speaking at the party’s media briefing on Monday, FDC Deputy Secretary for Publicity, Publication and Documentation Mulindwa Walid Lubega said limited funding and poor infrastructure are affecting the growth of the industry.
Lubega said tourism is an important contributor to Uganda’s economy, providing foreign exchange and employment while supporting businesses in different parts of the country.
He questioned the level of government funding allocated to the sector, saying tourism received about Shs430 billion in direct funding during the 2025/26 financial year, against a national budget of more than Shs72 trillion.
“Less than one percent of the budget for a sector that brings in nine percent of our GDP,” Lubega said.
The FDC official also claimed that some funds planned for tourism under the National Development Plan III have not always been fully released, raising questions about the implementation of government plans for the sector.
Lubega further pointed to the condition of roads leading to major tourist destinations, particularly Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
He said poor roads make journeys to some of Uganda’s leading attractions difficult for visitors and have remained a concern despite repeated government promises to improve them.
The FDC also raised concerns about Uganda’s international image, citing issues such as security reports and the country’s handling of the 2026 Ebola outbreak.
Lubega called for more investment in tourism infrastructure, increased funding and stronger efforts to improve Uganda’s image internationally.
He said the party wants tourism to become a bigger part of Uganda’s economic development strategy, with greater attention given to job creation, local businesses and the protection of the country’s tourist attractions.
