Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, vacationing at Murchison Falls National Park recently
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has urged Ugandans to embrace domestic tourism, drawing inspiration from His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, who has been spotted spending quiet family time at Murchison Falls National Park.
UWA shared images of the Kabaka at Uganda’s premier conservation area, describing the visit as a powerful endorsement of local tourism and nature appreciation. The monarch, who in recent years reduced his public engagements on medical advice to prioritise his recovery, appeared relaxed and in good spirits during the visit.
Photographs released by the authority show the Kabaka enjoying the natural surroundings alongside members of his family, including Princes Jjunju and Ssemakookiro, as well as his grandchildren. The images capture moments of calm reflection, family bonding and appreciation of the outdoors against the backdrop of one of Uganda’s most iconic landscapes.
According to UWA, the Kabaka’s visit underscores the fact that national parks are not only destinations for international tourists or holiday seasons, but ideal spaces for rest, recreation and reconnection with nature throughout the year. The authority said such visits also highlight the importance of supporting conservation through responsible tourism.
“His visit is a powerful reminder to embrace domestic tourism, connect with nature, and support conservation efforts. If our cultural leader can make time for nature, so can we,” UWA said in a statement accompanying the images.
UWA further noted that domestic tourism plays a key role in sustaining protected areas, supporting local communities and preserving wildlife habitats, especially at a time when conservation faces increasing pressure from climate change and human activity.
This is not the first time Kabaka Mutebi has been seen enjoying the outdoors. In recent months, he has been photographed taking walks, relaxing at beaches and interacting with communities in open spaces, signaling a slower, health-centred lifestyle that continues to resonate with many Ugandans.
Domestic tourism in Uganda shows strong growth, with around 2.8 million Ugandans participating in local travel in 2024, a significant increase from 2023 when domestic entries to attraction sites rose by over 25% (around 1.1 million visitors).
According to the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, this trend highlights Ugandans exploring their own country, driven by campaigns like “Explore Uganda.”
“This campaign has made domestic travel a key driver in the sector’s overall rebound and revenue generation, despite fluctuations in international arrivals,” it said in a recent statement.
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