By Mariam Nanyanzi
KAMPALA. Ugandans are set to enjoy three days of free entry to selected national parks and wildlife reserves as tourism authorities push to stimulate domestic travel, spread visitor traffic beyond traditional destinations, and deepen public appreciation for conservation.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced it will host its 2026 Open Park Days from September 25 to 27, inviting citizens to experience the country’s natural heritage ahead of the national World Tourism Day celebrations set for Mbale on September 27.
“Before we celebrate World Tourism Day, let us first explore Uganda,” said Ms. Dorcus Rukundo, UWA’s Acting Commissioner for Tourism and Business Development, during the launch of the World Tourism Day activities.
Ms Rukundo emphasized that tourism is best understood through firsthand experience, urging Ugandans to become active ambassadors for their country’s attractions.
“You cannot promote what you have never experienced. Let us explore Uganda, experience our wildlife, and share our story with the world,” she added.
The participating national parks include Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo, and Kidepo Valley. Wildlife reserves such as Ajai, Katonga, Toro-Semuliki, and Pian Upe are also included in the initiative.
While the waiver covers park entry fees, visitors will still be responsible for transport, accommodation, and optional activities such as boat cruises, guided walks, and game drives.
Although Uganda’s protected areas form the backbone of its international tourism campaigns, high costs, limited information, and the perception that wildlife tourism is tailored for foreign visitors have historically kept many locals away. UWA hopes the Open Park Days will bridge this gap for families, students, and first-time travelers while highlighting the link between conservation, tourism revenue, and local community livelihoods.
This year’s World Tourism Day will be commemorated globally under the theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” underscoring the growing influence of technology on destination marketing and visitor management.
By hosting the national celebrations in Mbale, sector leaders aim to decentralize tourism and drive economic activity into the eastern region.
Ms. Juliana Kagwa, the Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), noted that the strategy focuses on broadening both the geographical reach of tourism and the variety of experiences offered.
“We are on a deliberate journey to decentralize tourism beyond the traditional focus on national parks, wildlife, and landscapes,” Ms. Kagwa said, describing the effort as a way to democratize the sector so more citizens can benefit financially.
“As we take World Tourism Day to Mbale and the wider eastern region, we want to shine a light not only on the beauty of Mount Elgon, but also on the people, their culture, heritage, coffee, and everything that makes the region special. This is eastern Uganda’s moment to showcase its story and attract the attention it deserves,” Ms. Kagwa added.
The initiative aims to position eastern Uganda—home to Mount Elgon, Sipi Falls, hiking routes, and cultural sites—alongside the established Rift Valley circuit.
To support long-term engagement, Ms. Rukundo highlighted UWA’s efforts to decentralize conservation education, pointing to a newly opened center in Mbale and plans for similar facilities across the country to educate surrounding communities on biodiversity.
She also commended content creators, media practitioners, and journalists for writing articles, capturing imagery, and utilizing digital platforms to highlight lesser-known destinations to propel domestic travel.