KAMPALA – In recent years, Uganda has faced significant challenges that have tested the resilience of many sectors, especially tourism. The COVID-19 pandemic, the Ebola outbreak, and negative international travel advisories drastically impacted on the tourism industry, our national parks inclusive. Yet, through these challenges, an opportunity has emerged – a call to all Ugandans to rediscover the unparalleled beauty of our own country.
This year, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is proud to launch the Open Park Days initiative, taking place on October 17th and 18th, 2024. This annual initiative is not just a promotional event; it is a call to action for every Ugandan to explore the breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich biodiversity that define our national parks.
For far too long, tourism in Uganda has been viewed through the lens of foreign visitors—important, of course, but often overshadowing the immense potential of domestic tourism. The Open Park Days initiative seeks to change that perspective. Domestic tourism is not only vital for Uganda’s economic sustainability but also for fostering a sense of ownership and pride among Ugandans for the natural wonders that surround us.
By opening our national parks free of charge during Open Park Days, we aim to encourage Ugandans from all walks of life to experience these wonders first-hand. This initiative will allow visitors to explore iconic parks such as Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo, and Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, with complimentary game drives that offer an immersive experience of Uganda’s magnificent wildlife.
However, Open Park Days is about more than tourism. It is also an opportunity for UWA to build stronger bonds with communities living around our conservation areas. These communities are integral to our conservation efforts, and by opening the park gates, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of what happens within our parks and why conservation matters. This access will demystify park operations and inspire local communities to take an active role in protecting Uganda’s natural heritage.
For many Ugandans living near national parks, access to these areas has traditionally been limited. By inviting them inside, we demonstrate UWA’s commitment to transparency and to building positive relationships with the people who are the stewards of the land surrounding our parks. The initiative will strengthen UWA’s community relations, foster cooperation, and cultivate a shared responsibility in safeguarding the environment and wildlife.
It is no secret that the revenue generated from tourism has a direct impact on the communities surrounding our parks. From employment opportunities to the promotion of local crafts, tourism fuels local economies and empowers communities. Every visit to a national park contributes to conservation efforts, protects wildlife, and creates jobs. By driving domestic tourism, we are not only promoting economic growth but also ensuring that Uganda’s wildlife and ecosystems are preserved for future generations.
We must also recognize the educational value of these visits. National parks are living classrooms, where young Ugandans can learn about the importance of biodiversity and the urgent need for conservation. Open Park Days is an invitation to all Ugandans—especially our youth—to learn, experience, and develop a passion for protecting the environment.
This year’s World Tourism Day theme, Tourism and Peace, reminds us that tourism is more than just an economic activity; it is a bridge to understanding, respect, and cultural exchange. Our parks are places where Ugandans from different regions and backgrounds can come together, united by their shared appreciation for our natural heritage. Open Park Days is also about fostering peace and unity through a collective appreciation of the land we all call home.
As Executive Director of UWA, I extend a personal invitation to all Ugandans to take part in Open Park Days. Mark your calendars for October 17th and 18th, and join us in celebrating Uganda’s incredible wildlife and landscapes. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, our parks offer something new and awe-inspiring each time you explore them.
I also urge you to share your experiences with others—both in person and on social media. Let us all become ambassadors for Uganda’s national parks, inspiring more people to visit, appreciate, and protect the beauty that makes our country unique.
Together, we can drive a new era of domestic tourism, one where every Ugandan feels connected to their natural heritage and committed to its preservation. Open Park Days is not just an event—it is a movement toward greater awareness, appreciation, and responsibility for the incredible resources we have been blessed with. Let’s make the most of it.
I look forward to seeing you in our parks.
The writer, Sam Mwandha, is the Executive Director, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
