UTB celebrates ICCA 2024 ranking as Uganda climbs to 6th place in Africa for international meetings

June 25, 2025 in Business, Trade & Industry, Travel & Tourism by Editor

Uganda’s growing influence as a preferred destination for global events has received another major boost. According to the newly released 2024 International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) rankings, Uganda has risen to 6th place, up from 7th, among the top 10 African countries hosting international association meetings. Kampala also moved up to 4th place in the Africa city rankings, reflecting its expanding capacity and reputation in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.

The rankings are compiled by ICCA, a globally respected organization that tracks international association meetings rotating among at least three countries. These rankings are considered a key benchmark of credibility and competitiveness in the MICE industry globally.

Uganda hosted 19 association meetings in 2024 that qualified under ICCA’s criteria — a clear indicator of sustained momentum in the sector, and a significant endorsement of Uganda’s destination appeal, logistical readiness, and sectoral coordination.

Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) Chief Executive Officer, Juliana Kagwa, welcomed the achievement, noting that the improved rankings are both a reward and a motivator for continued growth.

“Achieving a higher position in the ICCA rankings not only enhances our visibility but also underscores our capability to host important global events,” Kagwa said. “This recognition is the result of concerted effort by our venues, event organizers, government partners, and the private sector. We thank all stakeholders who participated in the MICE sector survey earlier this year — your data was vital.”

Uganda Tourism Board, through its Convention Bureau (UCB), has actively pursued international partnerships, membership in key global associations such as ICCA, the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), and the Union for International Associations (UIA), and rolled out capacity-building initiatives in the local MICE ecosystem.

In alignment with international best practices, UCB offers support across the full event cycle — from advisory and bidding assistance to onsite coordination — further positioning Uganda as a competitive destination.

The Convention Bureau’s ultimate goal is to see Uganda ranked among Africa’s top five MICE destinations, a goal UTB says is within reach if current momentum is sustained.

“We remain committed to improving infrastructure, service quality, and market access for event organizers,” added Kagwa. “This is not just about tourism; it’s about trade, diplomacy, education, and investment. MICE is a catalyst for cross-sector development and Uganda is ready.”

Uganda’s improved ICCA rankings come at a time when MICE tourism is increasingly recognized as a driver of high-value, low-impact travel. The sector contributes significantly to employment, foreign exchange earnings, and the country’s broader visibility on the international stage.

As the Uganda Convention Bureau continues to champion professional standards, forge new partnerships, and promote the country globally, the journey toward a top-five spot on the continent appears increasingly feasible.