KAMPALA, March 28, 2025 – The Uganda Wildlife Authority [ UWA ] has signed three significant concession agreements with private investors to develop and manage high-end tourism infrastructure in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley national parks.
The signing ceremony, which took place recently at the Protea Hotel in Kampala, was overseen by the Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra Bahinduka.
Prof. James Kalema, Chairman of the UWA Board of Trustees, signed on behalf of UWA, while investor representatives Epic Kagoro, Patricia Akakunda, and Paul Zhang Zhigang signed on behalf of their respective companies.
The three investors have committed to fulfilling all concession requirements and completing the developments within four to five years. The projects represent a total direct investment of US$28.5 million into Uganda’s tourism sector.
Minister Mugarra expressed optimism regarding the potential impact of these investments. “This is a strategic moment for Uganda’s tourism sector. These projects will not only enhance the quality of our protected areas but will also generate revenue and create meaningful jobs for our people,” he stated.
Prof. Kalema welcomed the investors and stressed the importance of environmental responsibility.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with investors who bring not only business expertise but also ecological integrity. All lodge site developments will undergo comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments, conducted by qualified professionals, and all developments will be designed with sensitivity to the ecosystems in which they are situated,” he said.
UWA Executive Director Sam Mwandha reiterated UWA’s commitment to balancing conservation with development.
“We are intentional in selecting partners who align with our conservation objectives. These investments have been thoroughly reviewed and will be closely monitored to ensure they provide value to both wildlife protection and the national economy,” he added.
The agreements encompass three distinct projects designed to elevate Uganda’s tourism offerings:
Kagobed Holdings Ltd – The company will redevelop and operate Jacana Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park under the Serena Hotels brand. The US$7 million investment will establish a high-end facility featuring accommodation, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions [MICE] infrastructure, a helipad, a health club, and other modern amenities.
Tian Tang Group – This investor will develop a Glass Bridge and a 50-seater restaurant at the Top of the Falls in Murchison Falls National Park. With an investment of US$20 million, this project aims to provide a world-class tourism experience and promote Uganda as a premier adventure destination.
Russell Hall Ltd – A Ugandan-owned hospitality company will construct a US$1.5 million luxury lodge in Kidepo Valley National Park. The lodge will be managed in partnership with the French hotel brand TUI Blue, ensuring international standards of comfort and service.
https://thecooperator.news/uwa-installs-another-fence-along-queen-elizabeth-national-park/
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