The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities in Uganda is actively pursuing an allocation of Shs10 billion for the procurement of a dedicated helicopter. This crucial investment, as articulated by Undersecretary Godfrey Sseremba, is intended to significantly bolster surveillance and conservation endeavors across Uganda's national parks. The proposed aircraft would streamline various critical operations, including aerial patrols, comprehensive wildlife surveillance, efficient animal census exercises, and vital rescue operations, particularly for animals that become ensnared by poachers. Sseremba emphasized that the current reliance on hired helicopters has proven to be an expensive, time-consuming, and operationally challenging approach, underscoring the urgent need for a dedicated asset.

Sseremba further clarified that the Shs10 billion is specifically earmarked for the acquisition of a new helicopter, not for maintenance, reinforcing its primary role in proactive conservation and anti-poaching efforts. He highlighted that the existing arrangement of renting helicopters is not only costly but also lacks the reliability required for consistent and timely conservation operations, especially during peak periods. This request has been formally included in the ministry's Budget Framework Paper (BFP) for the 2026/2027 financial year and was presented by the sector minister, Tom Butime, to the Committee on Trade, Tourism and Industry on January 27, 2026.

Members of Parliament on the committee largely endorsed the proposal, acknowledging the substantial contribution of the tourism sector to the national economy. The committee was informed that in 2025, tourism generated an impressive Shs12.2 trillion, largely propelled by the 1.65 million tourists who visited Uganda. However, despite supporting the conservation initiative, MPs expressed significant concerns regarding the operational stability and capacity of Uganda Airlines. Committee Chairperson, Sylvia Nayebale, specifically questioned the ministry's measures to cater for foreign tourists, warning that disruptions to the airline's services could detrimentally impact the growth of tourism, which heavily relies on international visitors.

In response to these concerns, the State Minister for Tourism, Martin Mugarra, affirmed the instrumental role played by Uganda Airlines in increasing tourist arrivals. He stated that in 2025, the airline, which now serves 17 destinations, contributed approximately 27 percent of Uganda's total tourist traffic. Mugarra cautioned that any failure to stabilize the airline's operations would undoubtedly create significant challenges and could effectively undermine the considerable gains made in positioning Uganda as a competitive and attractive tourism destination globally. The successful implementation of conservation strategies and the continued growth of tourism are thus seen as interconnected, with both requiring robust support and stability.