The Ugandan government is seeking parliamentary approval to borrow up to shs667 billion from Citi Bank to upgrade two key roads serving Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of the country’s leading tourist destinations.

The proposed investment is aimed at improving access to the park, which attracts visitors from across the world to see endangered mountain gorillas.

On October 21, Finance Minister of State Henry Musasizi asked Parliament to approve the proposed borrowing to fund improvements to the Hamurwa-Kerere-Kanungu road and the Kanyantorogo-Butogota-Buhoma road.

The two routes are considered important for connecting communities and tourists to the protected area in southwestern Uganda.

The first road section, Hamurwa-Kerere-Kanungu, covers approximately 47 kilometres, while the Kanyantorogo-Butogota-Buhoma road stretches about 32 kilometres.

The planned upgrades are expected to improve road conditions and make journeys to the national park more convenient for tourists, residents and businesses.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site internationally known for its mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking is among Uganda’s major tourism attractions, drawing visitors willing to pay substantial fees for the opportunity to observe the animals in their natural habitat.

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa supported the proposal, highlighting the challenges poor roads create for Uganda’s tourism industry.

He argued that difficult travel conditions can discourage high-spending tourists, some of whom may choose destinations in neighbouring countries where access to attractions is easier.

The proposed borrowing comes amid discussions about tourism’s contribution to Uganda’s economy.

The figures presented indicate that approximately 1.6 million visitors generated shs5.8 trillion in 2025, underlining the sector’s importance as a source of foreign exchange, employment and business opportunities.

Following its presentation to Parliament, the loan proposal was referred to the Committee on National Economy for examination.

The committee is expected to review the financing arrangement and other relevant details before Parliament makes a decision on the request.

If approved and implemented, the road upgrades could improve access to Bwindi and support tourism-related businesses in surrounding communities.

However, the proposed loan also places attention on the cost of borrowing, repayment obligations and the need to ensure that public investment delivers lasting benefits to Uganda’s tourism sector.