By Karim Were
Uganda’s successful bid to host the 19th World Congress on Environmental Health in 2028 is shaping up to be more than just a public health milestone—it’s a strategic economic play that positions Kampala as a rising hub for international conferences and business tourism.
Confirmed by the International Federation of Environmental Health, the event will draw an estimated 1,500 global delegates, bringing a surge of activity to Uganda’s hospitality, transport, and service sectors. Over five days, the congress is expected to inject nearly UGX 9.68 billion directly into the economy.
Behind the win is a coordinated effort led by the Environmental Health Workers Association of Uganda, working alongside the Uganda Tourism Board and supported by the Ministry of Health and Makerere University School of Public Health. Their collaboration highlights a growing national focus on leveraging global events to drive economic growth.
Rather than focusing solely on policy discussions around climate change, sanitation, and food safety, stakeholders are already eyeing the commercial ripple effects. Hotels, airlines, tour operators, and transport providers are expected to see increased demand, while tourism players are being urged to design packages that encourage delegates to explore Uganda beyond the conference.
This approach aligns with Uganda’s broader ambition to expand its Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) portfolio. The Uganda Convention Bureau, operating under UTB, has been actively targeting high-profile international events to diversify tourism revenue streams and reduce reliance on traditional leisure travel.
The timing is favorable. Uganda’s tourism sector is already on an upward trajectory, with 1.37 million international arrivals recorded in 2024 and earnings hitting US$1.28 billion. Hosting a global congress of this scale reinforces confidence in the country’s capacity to handle large international gatherings.
Ultimately, WCEH 2028 is not just about environmental health—it’s a calculated move to strengthen Uganda’s global visibility, attract investment, and turn Kampala into a competitive destination for high-value inte
rnational events.
