Jinja Source of the Nile revenue doubles annually

Previously, Jinja municipality was earning between sh40m and sh50m in a month

The Source of the Nile has turned into one of the top revenue earners for Jinja municipality. The tourism earning from the Source of the Nile is estimated between sh140m and sh100m every month meaning that the municipality earns sh1b annually, according to Jinja Mayor Majidu Batambuze.

Previously, Jinja municipality was earning between sh40m and sh50m in a month. The Mayor said there has been a turnaround within the last one and half years and that tourism still has a lot of potential which should be harnessed through investments.

He cited a five-star hotel, a convention centre and an 18-hole golf course as some of the investments that would enhance the tourism experience at the source of the Nile.

He also pointed out that cable cars connecting the eastern and western banks of the Source of the Nile would enhance the tourism experience at the source of the Nile.

“The Nile is of global significance,” he said, adding that there is a need for tourists to spend longer time at the Source of the Nile and also spend more money.

“I call up on the Government to increase investment in tourism investment. If tourism is contributing most to Uganda’s GDP, it means that the country should invest more in the sector,”  said Batambuze.

The Mayor was speaking at a press conference organised by Jinja municipality, Busoga kingdom and Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) ahead of the Nile Cultural Tourism Festival scheduled to take place on October 27.

Busoga kingdom minister for tourism, Hellen Namutamba, said the cultural festival will be opened by Rebecca Kadaga, the Speaker of Parliament.

Gabula Nadiope, the Kyabazinga of Busoga Kingdom is expected to close the festival on October 29.

Sylvia Kalembe from UTB said the Source of the Nile is one of the most strategic tourism assets and that Government was working with private sector to develop it.