UWA Partners with One Nature Hotels for Lodge Development in QENP

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has signed a landmark 25-year concession agreement with One Nature Hotels Limited. The deal, valued at $10 million, paves the way for the development of a world-class luxury lodge near the iconic Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The agreement, signed by UWA Board Chairman Professor James Kalema and Engineer Hani Saliba, Managing Director of One Nature Hotels, marks a major milestone in the integration of sustainable tourism and conservation, promising to redefine Uganda’s luxury tourism landscape.

The luxury lodge will offer eco-friendly infrastructure, ensuring minimal environmental impact, while $1 million will be invested in boat services to enhance wildlife viewing along 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 signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities (MTWA) Headquarters in Kampala, was presided over by Tom Butime, Minister of MTWA, who highlighted the strong partnership between Uganda and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Butime commended the initiative, stating, “This agreement exemplifies the fruitful ties between Uganda and the United Arab Emirates. I encourage more investors from the UAE to explore opportunities in our national parks. Such partnerships are vital for advancing sustainable tourism and uplifting our communities.”

Martin Bahinduka Mugarra, MTWA’s Minister of State, echoed his senior’s statements, emphasising Uganda’s appeal to global investors.

“This project showcases how Uganda’s unique natural assets are attracting world-class investments. Combining luxury tourism with conservation raises the bar for sustainable tourism in the region,” he noted.

According to Prof. Kalema, the project is strategically important for Uganda’s tourism sector. “This concession cements Queen Elizabeth National Park’s status as a flagship destination. Beyond generating revenue, it will create jobs and increase awareness of Uganda’s incredible biodiversity,” he said, urging the investors to comply with environmental impact assessments and prioritise hiring from neighbouring communities.

Doreen Katusiime, MTWA’s Permanent Secretary, praised the long journey to secure the partnership, describing it as a testament to Uganda’s readiness to host world-class investments. Meanwhile, Eng. Hani Saliba reaffirmed One Nature Hotels’ commitment to sustainability.

“Our vision is to deliver luxury with sustainability at its core. This lodge, combined with boat services, will enhance visitor experiences and contribute to Uganda’s tourism legacy,” he said.

The development has drawn international support, with the President of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce emphasising the potential of Uganda-UAE relations to attract further investment.

Uganda’s Consul General to the UAE, Ambassador Henry Mayega, UWA Executive Director Sam Mwandha, and other dignitaries were present to witness the historic signing.

The project is expected to boost tourism revenue, provide employment opportunities for local communities, and further enhance Queen Elizabeth National Park’s global reputation as a premier travel destination.

With sustainability as a cornerstone, the lodge promises to set a new standard for eco-friendly luxury in Uganda.