ARUA CITY, WEST NILE REGION – On September 27, 2025, Arua City hosted vibrant celebrations for World Tourism Day, joining the global community under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” The event, marked by enthusiasm and cultural pride, drew thousands of Ugandans and international visitors, including large delegations from neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.

The day’s festivities were graced by the Prime Minister of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, who represented H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. In her address, the Prime Minister emphasized the role of tourism in driving sustainable development and fostering unity across borders. The event, which ran from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., showcased Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and its growing tourism sector.

Key dignitaries in attendance included the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, State Minister for Tourism, Hon. Martin Mugara, and the Minister of Veteran Affairs. Local leaders, such as Hon. Atima Lee Buti, MP for Central Division, and His Worship Sam Nyakua Wadri, Mayor of Arua City, were also present, alongside mayors from across the West Nile region and the country.

The celebrations highlighted outstanding contributions to Uganda’s tourism industry, with awards presented to top performers. In the West Nile Region, Confidential Hotel was honored as the best service provider, while Speke Resort Munyonyo clinched the national award for excellence in tourism services.

The event underscored Arua City’s growing prominence as a tourism hub in the West Nile Region, with its warm hospitality and cultural vibrancy on full display. Visitors enjoyed performances, exhibitions, and interactions that celebrated Uganda’s diverse heritage and its commitment to sustainable tourism.

SP Anguyo Jimmy Bayiga, representing the West Nile Region, hailed the event as a milestone in promoting tourism and economic growth. “This day has shown the world what Arua and Uganda have to offer. We are ready to welcome more visitors and continue transforming our tourism sector sustainably,” he said.

As Uganda looks to bolster its tourism industry, the success of World Tourism Day 2025 in Arua City sets a promising tone for the future, with stakeholders united in their vision for a thriving, sustainable tourism landscape.

written by

Andrew Ogwang

Andrew Ogwang is a dedicated Ugandan journalist based in the Northern Region, with a focus on economic reporting, current affairs, and social issues affecting the country. Ogwang has contributed to several local media outlets, including print and digital platforms like The Northern Press, where he has covered topics ranging from policy developments and community stories to investigative pieces on development challenges in Uganda.