Ambassador of the European Union in Uganda Jan Sadek has hailed Ugandan security for its contribution to tourism, which promoted peace and economic development in Uganda.

The security forces were hailed during the Tourism Thematic Conference 2024, which took place on September 19, 2024, at Hotel Africana, Kampala.

During the opening remarks at the conference, Ambassador Sadek appreciated the contribution of security in ensuring peace in an unstable region and ensuring that tourism continues peacefully.

“The security forces have prioritized anti-terrorism and anti-poaching, which have ensured tourism. I am glad these kinds of conferences are being put up, as it shows the country is now focusing on how it’s perceived by the outside world to attract more tourists. The government should priorities tourism as it helps improve the economic development of the country,” Amb Sadek stated.

Brig. General Felix Kulayigye, the Spokesperson of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, revealed that the nexus between tourism and stability should be in the interest of every sound-minded Ugandan, stating that security is a pillar of tourism.

“Security is not only an ally to tourism, but it’s the advance party of tourism because, without peace, there will be low tourism. The best example is the Karamoja region, where peace has started prevailing and we are all witnessing an increase in tourism in the region. Everyone has a part to play in tourism and peace development in this country,” Kulayigye noted.

Colonel Tom Butime, the Cabinet Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, revealed that the theme of the conference comes in a time where peace is crucial in today’s world, where conflicts and tension challenges are faced by our communities.

“The potential of tourism in contributing to peace must not be under-looked, especially in places that have been hit by conflicts. Once tourism gets involved, these communities open doors for others and build bridges between themselves, and this is why we should encourage cultural tourism to strengthen peace and tourism and encourage dialogue among communities,” Butime said.

A conference themed “Tourism and Peace” examines the role of tourism in fostering peace and economic development in Uganda, arguing that by valuing and preserving cultural and natural heritage, it helps reduce tensions and fosters peaceful coexistence among communities that are interdependent on one another, resulting in a country’s peace and economic development.