The operationalization of the national MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) strategy 2025-2030 which aims to attract over $250 million into the economy, among other line efforts, is registering gains as Uganda wins bid to host prestigious UNESCO events this September.
Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), in partnership with Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE) on Thursday announced that Uganda had won the bid to host the 2025 UNESCO Africa Engineering Week and African Engineering Conference.
Slated for 14th to 20th September 2025 at the Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo, Kampala, the event is themed “Leveraging Engineering Innovations and Technology to Accelerate Africa’s Socio–Economic Transformation.”
According to the press release issued by UTB, the event is anticipated to bring together engineers, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the continent to share knowledge, showcase advancements, and address critical challenges in the field of engineering.
“The UNESCO African Engineering week is an annual continent-wide celebration that raises the profile of the engineering profession, emphasizes its crucial role in sustainable development, and inspires the next generation of engineers by integrating practical applications into Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education,” the release reads in part.
The 2025 UNESCO African Engineering Week and Africa Engineering Conference will feature a diverse program of activities that include educational workshops, public awareness events, mentoring activities, technical sessions, and networking opportunities.
“These activities will highlight the vital role of engineers as problem-solvers, showcasing the practical applications of engineering in addressing real-world challenges while fostering collaboration among engineers, educators, and policymakers to support the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and contribute to a better quality of life across Africa,” it adds.
Juliana Kagwa, UTB Chief Executive Officer said, “Hosting this prestigious event aligns with our efforts to position Uganda as a leading destination for conferences and events. We are confident that attendees will experience the beauty and hospitality of Uganda, while also contributing to the important discussions and advancements in the field of engineering.”
With preparations underway, jointly handled by UTB and UIPE, Uganda looks forward to welcoming delegates from across the continent to engage in meaningful dialogue, celebrate engineering excellence, and explore the many opportunities the country has to offer as a top destination for conferences and innovation.
According to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), the East African MICE market share currently constitutes 25% of Africa’s overall share, which, in turn is 3% globally.
“Within this context, Uganda specifically represents 5% of the 3% African global share,” UTB noted in an April 2025 update.
With events like the UNESCO Africa Engineering Week being hosted in Uganda, the country continues to make its mark as a fast-growing MICE destination.