The excitement around this year’s World Tourism Day began to build long before September, when the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities officially launched the 2025 national celebrations at the Fairway Hotel in Kampala. The announcement placed Arua City and the wider West Nile region at the centre of national attention which was a decision that many described as both strategic and symbolic. The launch attracted tourism stakeholders, media representatives and cultural leaders, all gathered to witness the unveiling of the plans for Uganda’s participation in the global celebration. The theme for this year, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” carries a message that resonates deeply with Uganda’s tourism vision, “Growth that uplifts communities, preserves nature and keeps culture at the heart of every experience.”
This year, the Ministry’s focus turned westward to Arua, a city known for its warm people, cross-border connections and untapped tourism promise. The choice of West Nile comes at a time when the region is working to shed its long-standing image of conflict and rediscover its potential. Bordering South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, West Nile is a meeting point of cultures and histories and a gateway that links Uganda to the rest of Africa through trade, art and shared heritage.
Tourism as a Force for Change
At the media launch, Hon. Martin Mugarra, the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, highlighted why Arua was selected to host this year’s national celebration. “It is fitting that this year’s World Tourism Day celebrations be held in Arua City, which is a gateway for both domestic and cross-border tourism,” he said. “With its rich cultural heritage, diverse ethnicities, and natural attractions, the region holds great potential for tourism development.” He explained that the Ministry aims to use the event to showcase West Nile’s offerings and integrate it more strongly into the national tourism agenda. “We are reaffirming our commitment to reinforce tourism development that’s inclusive, regionally balanced, and community-driven,” he added. The Minister outlined the activities planned for the tourism month awareness campaigns, cultural exhibitions, community drives, competitions and conservation outreaches. These efforts, he said, are designed to remind Ugandans that tourism is not just leisure but a tool for national transformation. “I encourage all Ugandans to take part in the various activities and the commemoration itself because such interaction helps us build bridges across cultures, stimulate local economies and deepen our national pride,” Hon. Mugarra said.
Tourism’s Growing Contribution
While launching the event, the Minister also shared encouraging updates on Uganda’s tourism performance. The sector’s recovery continues to strengthen, with earnings and visitor numbers exceeding previous targets. “In the first six months of 2025, we recorded 765,307 tourists, up from 678,811 during the same period in 2024, a 12% increase,” he announced. “Tourism’s contribution to GDP also grew by 24%, reaching UGX 2.68 trillion compared to UGX 2.61 trillion last year.” He expressed confidence that by the end of the year, Uganda will surpass its pre-pandemic figures, generating over USD 1.5 billion in tourism revenue and welcoming even more visitors.
Arua’s Readiness and Regional Potential
The story of tourism in West Nile is one of rediscovery. The region’s reputation has often been shaped by reports of insecurity, but local voices are now leading a new narrative, one rooted in peace, culture and opportunity. Dorothy Amparo, Senior Communications Officer for Arua City, reassured the public that the region is secure and steadily transforming. “Arua and the West Nile as a whole are safe. People have invested in hotels, crafts, and transport. Wildlife is thriving again in Ajai Wildlife Reserve, thanks to security and conservation efforts,” she said. She spoke proudly of the area’s nightlife, its cultural diversity and its growing hospitality sector. “We are peace-loving and welcoming. People enjoy themselves freely there day and night. We look forward to hosting everyone,” she added. West Nile offers a variety of attractions that reflect its cultural and natural wealth like the ‘smallest church in the world, scenic waterfalls like Abairo and Miradua, and the region’s signature dish, Nang Nang. The blend of Lugbara, Arur, Madi Okollo, Sudanese and Congolese traditions creates a vibrant mosaic that every visitor experience in the markets, music and daily life.
A Step Toward Transformation
The Ministry believes that hosting World Tourism Day in Arua will spark long-term interest and investment in the region. With improved infrastructure, stronger partnerships and a focus on inclusive growth, tourism in West Nile can become a cornerstone of Uganda’s sustainable future. As the preparations unfold, one thing is clear that this year’s celebration is not just about marking a date on the calendar. It is about restoring confidence, rewriting perceptions and reminding Ugandans that tourism begins at home.