The Embassy of Uganda in Beijing has hosted the Pearl of Africa: Uganda–Hangzhou Tourism and Investment Conference in Hangzhou, bringing together government officials, investors, and tourism stakeholders to strengthen Uganda tourism investment cooperation, trade, and cultural exchange between Uganda and China.
The conference was officially opened by Ambassador Oliver Wonekha together with Mr. Lu Jun, Deputy District Chief of Xihu District. Both leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening Uganda–China relations at subnational level, with a focus on tourism development, innovation, and cultural cooperation.
Ambassador Wonekha reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism partnerships and attracting high-quality foreign direct investment (FDI) to support the country’s national development priorities. She noted that Uganda continues to position itself as a leading tourism and investment destination in Africa, commonly known as the Pearl of Africa.
A key highlight of the conference was the Invest in Uganda presentation delivered by Richard Kabonero from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He showcased Uganda’s diverse investment opportunities across key sectors including tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, mineral development, renewable energy, infrastructure, and information and communication technology (ICT).
Kabonero highlighted Uganda’s strategic location at the heart of East Africa, its youthful and dynamic population, and its steadily improving business environment as key competitive advantages for international investors seeking opportunities in Africa.
The conference concluded with the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Ugandan and Hangzhou-based partners. The agreements focus on strengthening cooperation in hotel development, tour operations, technology exchange, and tourism promotion.
These partnerships are expected to boost tourism flows, enhance bilateral trade relations, attract investment in tourism infrastructure, and strengthen Uganda–China economic cooperation, further reinforcing the long-standing friendship between the two countries.
Story and Photos Credit: Government of Uganda
