Momentum is building for enhanced tourism collaboration between Uganda and Tanzania, with regional leaders emphasizing the sector's crucial role in fostering economic growth and integration within the East African Community (EAC). During Uganda’s 63rd Independence Anniversary in Arusha, Uganda’s Consul General, Ambassador Anne Katusiime Kageye, strongly advocated for both nations to jointly leverage their exceptional natural and cultural assets through unified promotion and harmonized strategies.

Ambassador Katusiime underscored that closer cooperation could significantly elevate East Africa's global standing as a premier tourism destination, while simultaneously driving inclusive growth and creating jobs across borders. She highlighted the complementary nature of their offerings, stating, “Uganda and Tanzania, both blessed with incredible natural beauty, have the potential to complement each other in promoting tourism across the region.” Tanzania is celebrated for its iconic wildlife and vast landscapes, while Uganda presents unique and diverse experiences, including mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, adrenaline tourism along Lake Victoria and the River Nile, and the majestic Murchison Falls, alongside a rich cultural heritage.

The call for deeper collaboration comes as both countries report strong tourism figures for 2024. Tanzania attracted over 1.8 million international visitors, generating approximately USD 3.4 billion in revenue, contributing over 17% to its national GDP, and supporting 1.5 million jobs—a 30% rebound from pre-pandemic levels. Uganda welcomed more than 1.1 million visitors, earning USD 1.2 billion, accounting for 7% of its GDP, and sustaining over 600,000 jobs. Katusiime believes these impressive gains can be substantially amplified through unified policies, coordinated marketing, and collaborative cross-border product development, stressing that such efforts would increase arrivals, create more youth employment, and enhance the EAC’s visibility as a unified tourism destination.

A central tenet of this vision is the creation of a singular, compelling regional brand, encapsulated by the slogan 'Visit East Africa, Feel the Vibe.' This brand aims to harness the distinct strengths of each nation, pairing Tanzania’s renowned ecosystems and safari experiences with Uganda’s adventure and cultural offerings. The economic imperatives driving this joint action are clear: tourism serves as a vital catalyst for foreign exchange, youth employment, and cultural exchange. With Africa's middle class growing and global interest shifting towards sustainable, experience-driven travel, targeted investments in regional infrastructure, harmonized visa policies, and innovative cross-border itineraries are becoming increasingly critical.

The presence of Joseph Ntakirutimana, Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), and other lawmakers at the Independence event further cemented the growing political will to streamline collaboration and ensure a seamless tourism experience for both international and intra-African visitors. Industry professionals across Africa view these developments as opportunities for substantial commercial benefits, with harmonized entry requirements and multi-country visa schemes expected to simplify travel, encourage longer stays, and boost visitor spending. Coordinated marketing campaigns in key source markets like Europe, Asia, and North America are also envisioned to enhance brand recognition and attract new demographics.

Looking ahead, both governments are anticipated to pursue new bilateral agreements focusing on joint marketing, participation in global trade shows, development of cross-border thematic routes (e.g., wildlife, adventure, heritage trails), streamlined visa and entry processes, and capacity building for tourism professionals. Ambassador Katusiime also reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to democratic values and peaceful cooperation, framing political stability as a fundamental prerequisite for sustained tourism growth. The Uganda Consulate in Arusha continues to play a pivotal role in advancing diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties under the EAC framework, as the industry aims to translate these cross-border visions into tangible products and policies that yield measurable benefits for communities and businesses throughout East Africa. Strategic partnerships, harmonized branding, and policy innovation are recognized as essential for unlocking the region's vast tourism potential and establishing a distinctive, competitive position on the global stage.