As Uganda gears up to host two of Africa’s biggest football tournaments, CHAN 2025 and AFCON 2027, the country’s tourism industry is sprinting ahead with a bold playbook of its own.
The government is betting big that the spotlight on African football will also shine a light on Uganda’s wild beauty, vibrant culture, and untapped potential as a top travel destination.
With thousands of fans expected to pour into the country during the tournaments, the plan is simple but ambitious: turn short-term sports excitement into long-term tourism revenue.
“We’re not just hosting football games. We’re hosting the world,” said State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra. “This is our chance to show Uganda’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.”
To back that vision, the country is investing in upgrades across the board. Roads are being improved, hotels and lodges are polishing up their offerings, and both government agencies and private businesses are joining forces to create a world-class visitor experience.
The push isn’t just about the tournaments themselves. The tourism and sports sectors are joining hands to build something bigger.
That conversation will take center stage at the upcoming State of Ugandan Sport Symposium on June 17 and 18, hosted by NBS Sport.
Set to be broadcast live on NBS Sport and Afro Mobile, the event will explore how Uganda can turn its sporting spotlight into real economic growth.
