Museveni Adopts AI to Drive Uganda Tourism Growth

President Yoweri Museveni announced that Uganda is adopting artificial intelligence and digital innovation to drive growth in its tourism sector during a World Tourism Day commemoration in Mbale. Museveni stated that the industry's competitiveness depends on using digital technologies to improve destination marketing, visitor information, and customer engagement.

Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Tom Butime emphasized the need to translate digital visibility into actual arrivals and revenue, noting that the country has moved beyond post-pandemic recovery. Butime stressed the importance of converting digital impressions into bookings and longer stays to increase tourism receipts.

Data from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities shows the sector currently contributes 5.9 percent to Uganda's gross domestic product and supports over 876,000 jobs. The ministry reported a record 1.64 million international tourist arrivals in 2025, representing a 19.7 percent increase over previous baselines.