Northern Uganda turns to agro-cultural tourism to grow local economy

What the report says

Stakeholders in Northern Uganda are urging more investment in agro-cultural tourism as a way to widen domestic tourism, support local businesses and keep visitor spending in the region. The discussion came during the launch of the Northern Uganda Farm Festival at TEGOT Farmstead in Unyama Sub-county, Gulu District, where organisers and officials presented farming, food and culture as part of the same economic opportunity.

David Pulkol, principal adviser to the Office of the Operation Wealth Creation chief coordinator, said Uganda’s tourism sector should not rely only on foreign visitors and wildlife-based attractions. He argued that many Ugandans are already looking for new travel experiences, including farm visits, cultural events and heritage-based activities. He also linked these efforts to stronger ties between Northern Uganda and Karamoja, pointing to cultural festivals as examples of events that can preserve heritage while generating income.

Sylvia Damali Owori, OWC director for creatives and member-based organisations, said creative industries can add value to farm products through branding, packaging and storytelling. She said this can help connect young people, artisans and agri-entrepreneurs with markets and investors. Beatrice Mao, who conceived the farm festival, said the planned two-day event in December 2026 will feature agriculture, food, music and local products, and is intended to show that farming can be a viable business.

The initiative reflects a broader push in Northern Uganda to combine commercial agriculture with tourism and culture as a route to economic growth, especially through locally driven events that attract Ugandan visitors.