Arua City readies for national World Tourism Day celebrations

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Arua City is preparing to host the national 2025 World Tourism Day celebrations.

The event, to be held on September 27 this year, under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, aims to highlight tourism’s role in inclusive development and environmental resilience.

Ahead of the main day, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, together with Arua City Council, has launched a media campaign to promote the celebrations.

Organisers emphasised that the occasion presents an opportunity to position Arua City and the West Nile region as a tourism and investment hub, boosting visibility and regional growth.

The official media launch was held on August 28, 2025, in the Arua City Council boardroom to outline activities leading up to the main event.

Planned activities, scheduled between September 25 and 28, include debates and engagements for primary and secondary schools, a multi-stakeholder thematic tourism conference, sports competitions, tug of war, a bicycle race, city cleaning, a beer race, and tours of West Nile.

Umar Muwonge, an official from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, explained why Arua city was chosen as host.

He said the hosting of the national event is rotational on a regional basis.

“Last year we were in Rwenzori Sub-region in Kasese district and this year was for the Eastern region and West Nile sub-region and Arua city was one of those that expressed interest and based on the parameters, the committee chose Arua city to host the event on behalf of the West Nile region,” said Muwonge.

Muwonge urged residents of West Nile to take advantage of the event to showcase the beauty of the region and earn income from hospitality and other services, with over 500 visitors expected.

David Kyasanku, the city clerk of Arua, appealed to the people of West Nile to seize the opportunity to showcase their talents, culture and products, and to be part of the historical event.

Sam Wadri Nyakua, the mayor of Arua city, described the event as part of the national cake that the people of West Nile should share in.

“This day is going to attract thousands of people and I urge our people to come and sell the unique items they have like the traditional, drinks, clothes like kitenge among other s and I am going to also invite our neighbours from Democratic Republic of Congo for them to join us on that day, so it will be a big day for us,” said Nyakua.

Phiona Dribareyo, the assistant resident city commissioner for Arua Central Division, said security has been strengthened to ensure successful celebrations.

She warned that anyone attempting to disrupt visitors and revellers will face severe consequences for any misbehaviour.