Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has today December 10th inked a historic 25-year concession agreement with One Nature Hotels Limited for the development and operation of a luxury lodge at Channel Track near the renowned Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Headquarters in Kampala, was presided over by Hon. Tom Butime, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities.
The agreement, signed by UWA Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Prof. James Kalema, and the Managing Director of One Nature Hotels Limited, Eng. Hani Saliba, UWA says, marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s efforts to enhance sustainable luxury tourism.
According to the statement issued by UWA ON Tuesday, the concessionaire (One Nature Hotels Limited) has committed an investment of $10 million for the development of the lodge and an additional $1 million for the introduction of boat services on the Kazinga Channel.
“This initiative will offer exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing and leisure on one of Uganda’s most iconic waterways. The concessionaire has also secured land in Rushaga, outside the park, where they plan to establish facilities aimed at attracting high-end visitors from the Middle East and other global markets,” the statement reads in part.
Giving his remarks, Hon. Tom Butime commended the partnership and emphasized Uganda’s growing ties with the UAE which he said are yielding positive results and invited more investors to Uganda’s protected areas.
“Uganda enjoys a strong and fruitful relationship with the United Arab Emirates, and this agreement is a testament to that bond. I encourage more investors from the UAE to explore opportunities in other national parks across Uganda,” he said.
Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, highlighted Uganda’s competitiveness in attracting world-class investments adding that such partnerships are crucial in advancing sustainable tourism and conservation while creating jobs and uplifting local communities.
“This partnership is a demonstration of how Uganda is leveraging its unique natural assets to attract global investors. Combining luxury tourism with conservation sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism in the region and ensures our protected areas remain vibrant and beneficial to both nature and our people,” Minister Mugarra said.
Renowned for its eco-conscious operations and exceptional guest experiences, One Nature Hotels Limited is a globally recognized ultra-luxury boutique hotel group based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Doreen Katusiime, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities expressed her gratitude for the milestone achieved.
“It has been a long journey to bring One Nature Hotels to Uganda, and I am delighted that this process has reached a successful climax. This project is a testament to Uganda’s readiness to host world-class investments and showcases the incredible potential of our tourism sector.” Prof. James Kalema, Chairman of the UWA Board of Trustees, said that the agreement is of strategic importance to Uganda’s tourism and wildlife conservation. He added that the concession is a significant step in solidifying Queen Elizabeth National Park as a flagship destination for tourism in Uganda.
He also called on the investors to prioritize compliance with all necessary processes, such as the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), and to ensure job opportunities are provided to communities neighbouring the protected area.
On his end, Eng. Hani Saliba, Managing Director of One Nature Hotels Limited, expressed the company’s commitment to sustainability and excellence in their operations noting that the project is going to be a game changer in Uganda’s tourism industry.
“Our vision is to deliver world-class luxury while championing sustainability. The addition of boat services on the Kazinga Channel will further enhance the visitor experience. This partnership is not just about building a hotel; it’s about creating a legacy,” he said.
The President of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce hailed the strong relationship between Uganda and the UAE, emphasizing its potential for development.
“The relationship between Uganda and the UAE should be fully exploited for the development of Uganda. With reliable transport between our two countries, the groundwork is in place to attract more visitors and investors to Uganda. Once the opportunities are well-prepared and promoted, more people will undoubtedly come to experience the beauty of this country,” he noted.
He asked the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities to share with the Chamber any opportunities for investment in Uganda’s tourism sector.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Uganda’s Consul General to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Ambassador Henry Mayega, UWA Executive Director Sam Mwandha, and officials from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce among others.
The luxury lodge at Channel Track will feature eco-friendly infrastructure, adhering to strict sustainability principles to minimize environmental impact. This development is expected to create employment opportunities for local communities, boost tourism revenue, and further enhance the global reputation of Queen Elizabeth National Park as a must-visit destination.
