Uganda has intensified efforts to market Brand Uganda in India as part of a broader strategy to boost tourism and attract investment. The Uganda High Commission in India, in partnership with the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) and Uganda Airlines, is participating in two major tourism expos: the Outbound Tourism Mart (OTM) in Mumbai from 5–7 February 2026, and the South Asia Tourism and Travel Exchange (SATTE) in New Delhi from 25–27 February 2026.
Speaking at the opening of the activity-packed week, Ambassador Prof. Joyce Kikafunda, Uganda’s High Commissioner to India, noted that India is one of the fastest-growing tourist source markets globally, driven by rising disposable incomes and a rapidly expanding middle class with growing interest in international travel. She described OTM Mumbai as a strategic platform for Uganda to increase its visibility and position itself as a preferred destination. The expo is expected to attract over 50,000 trade visitors and more than 2,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries.
Mr. Brian Mwanika, Head of Economic and Commercial Diplomacy at the High Commission, explained that Uganda’s participation at OTM is preceded by the Explore Uganda India Tourism Roadshow, taking place in Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai from 2–4 February 2026.
The roadshow, co-organized by the High Commission, UTB, and Uganda Airlines, is aimed at creating awareness and promoting Uganda as a destination in key Indian tourist source cities.
Mumbai remains a critical gateway for India’s outbound travel market, with six out of ten Indian travelers passing through the city. It also hosts the headquarters of India’s largest outbound tour operators, particularly those targeting affluent, luxury, and long-haul travelers. Additionally, as the home of Bollywood, Mumbai plays a significant role in shaping travel aspirations and global tourism trends.
India currently ranks as Uganda’s leading source of tourists outside East Africa. Ambassador Kikafunda revealed that the number of Indian travelers to Uganda grew from 34,208 in 2024 to 42,800 in 2025. She added that the High Commission is implementing targeted initiatives to increase arrivals to over 100,000 within the next two years.
The growing tourism and business ties between the two countries have been further strengthened by improved air connectivity. Uganda Airlines launched direct flights between Entebbe and Mumbai in October 2023, significantly reducing travel time and cost.
In September 2025, the national carrier also signed an Interline Agreement with Air India, enabling smoother and more seamless travel for passengers between Uganda and India. These developments are expected to continue driving tourism, trade, and investment flows between the two nations.
