In part 4 of our examination of the presentation made by Bradford Ochieng, Deputy-CEO of Uganda Tourism Board during the MICE Conference at Akwaaba 2020, we take a look at the trends, strengths and investment opportunities in the growing MICE industry in Uganda.
For previous articles on the presentation by Destination Uganda, click:
Part 1:Africa: Uganda M.I.C.E. tourism presentation at Akwaaba 2020 – Part 1, Overview
Part 2: Africa: The birth and evolution of M.I.C.E. tourism in Uganda
Part 3: Africa: Impact of COVID-19 on M.I.C.E. tourism in Uganda
The trend of tourist arrivals in Uganda had risen up to 1,505,669 by 2018, with 80.5% of that number arriving from other African countries.
Europe arrivals were 7.40%, America 5.60%, Asia 5.10%, while both Middle East and Oceania contributed 1.40%.
On purpose of visits, MICE ranked 4th with a 12.40%, behind VFR (Visiting friends and relatives) at the top with 28.20%, Work at 20% in second, and Leisure in third at 19.30%. Education comes after in fifth with 8.50%; while Shopping, Volunteering, Medical and Others follow respectively.
Key Strengths
Uganda has a number of valuable natural assets already listed in the first part of this presentation, and other strengths.
◇ Abundance of tourism attractions and high biodiversity
◇ Uganda’ strategic geographic location in Africa and part of the EAC (East African Community) with a big population
◇ Strong commitment by government to tourism and to developing the MICE sector
◇ Reasonable international airlift and accessibility
◇ Relative to Africa, safety and security is good Easy online visa applications as well as EAC visas
◇ Supportive Investment Climate for foreign investments
◇ Uganda was one of the first countries in Africa to liberalise both the current and capital accounts in 1997.
Investment Opportunities
1, Hotels
Development of middle-class accommodation in line with rising number of MICE delegates and business tourists, ie. (3- to 5-Star accommodation facilities of international standards)
2, Convention Centers
With an estimate of over 200,000 MICE delegates expected in Uganda in the medium term, development of convention centres presents lucrative opportunities
3, Financing
Providing affordable and accessible term capital for the development of MICE industry
4, Convention Planners
Provision of the latest technology – Sound – Acoustics – Beamer – Live music – Lighting – etc.
5, Transport
Provision of modernize and simplify transportation in cooperation with the public sector
6, Entertainment & Leisure
Planning of events of all kinds which accompany MICE activities – Decoration – Music Shows – Cinemas with international movies…
7, Cuisines
Provision of excellent food services for different nationalties and diverse tastes.