UDB Commits Shs100bn Toward Tourism Infrastructure Development

What the report says

Uganda Development Bank has pledged Shs101 billion for tourism infrastructure, according to Nile Post, as the government pushes to expand the sector’s role in the economy and improve Uganda’s tourism offering. The commitment was announced by Minister of State for Finance Henry Musasizi during the launch of the Tourism Development Programme Annual Performance Report at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala.

The report, which reviewed progress against tourism targets set at the start of 2026, said the sector received Shs4.36 billion in the national budget. It also indicated that some goals have already been met while others are still being implemented. Musasizi said the financing from UDB is intended to support infrastructure development in a sector that helps attract visitors and earn foreign exchange.

The report said about 1.43 million Ugandans visited national parks between January and May, while 1,025 tourists visited cultural sites. It also put tourist expenditure for the same period at $1.62 billion. Uganda Tourism Board officials said 32 heritage sites had been protected and that 98% of tourism students trained had found jobs within six months of completing their studies.

Nile Post also reported that conservation remains a concern, including a decline in the lion population, which could affect wildlife tourism. A second conservation centre opened in Mbale on August 28 was presented as part of wider efforts to support conservation, heritage protection and skills development alongside infrastructure investment.