Juliana Kagwa starts life Uganda Tourism Board as CEO
The Ugandan tourism sector eagerly awaits Kagwa's vision and leadership, confident that her expertise will usher in a new era of growth, innovation, and prosperity for the industry.
Juliana Kagwa officially assumed office as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) yesterday, June 16th, 2025. The highly anticipated appointment marks a new chapter for the organization, with Kagwa poised to guide Uganda’s tourism sector towards further growth and development.
The handover ceremony, a significant event in the Ugandan tourism calendar, was officiated by the board chairperson, Pearl Kakooza. In attendance were key figures from the UTB, including Vice Chairperson Ron Kawamara, board members Rashid Kiyimba and Ojara Margaret, and Deputy CEO Bradford Ochieng. The ceremony symbolized a smooth transition and a unified vision for the future of Ugandan tourism.
Kagwa brings to the role a wealth of experience, boasting over two decades in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and agribusiness sectors across Africa. Her impressive career is distinguished by a proven track record in building iconic brands, leading successful cross-border strategies, and cultivating impactful public-private partnerships.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Kagwa to the Uganda Tourism Board,” stated Kakooza during the handover ceremony. “Her extensive experience and strategic vision make her the ideal leader to steer UTB towards achieving its goals and further elevating Uganda as a premier tourism destination.”
With her background steeped in marketing and commercial expertise, Kagwa is expected to bring a fresh perspective to promoting Uganda’s rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
Industry experts anticipate that her focus on building strong partnerships and driving innovative marketing campaigns will significantly contribute to attracting more tourists and boosting the tourism sector’s contribution to the national economy.
Kagwa’s appointment comes at a crucial time as Uganda continues to recover from the impact of global events and seeks to position itself as a leading destination for both leisure and business travelers.
The UTB, under her leadership, is expected to champion sustainable tourism practices and prioritize the development of unique and authentic experiences that showcase the best of Uganda’s natural and cultural assets.
