Uganda has earned international recognition after winning the bid to host the 19th World Congress on Environmental Health (WCEH 2028), a prestigious global forum set to take place in Kampala.
The announcement by the International Federation of Environmental Health marks a significant milestone for the country, positioning it at the center of global conversations on public health and environmental sustainability. The congress is expected to draw over 1,500 delegates, including experts, researchers, and policymakers, for five days of dialogue on critical issues such as climate change, sanitation, food safety, and urban health.
The successful bid was led by the Environmental Health Workers Association of Uganda in partnership with the Uganda Tourism Board, with strong backing from the Ministry of Health and Makerere University School of Public Health. Together, these institutions showcased Uganda’s readiness to host a high-level international gathering.
Beyond its intellectual value, the congress is projected to deliver a substantial economic boost. Estimates suggest it could generate nearly UGX 9.68 billion, benefiting key sectors such as hospitality, transport, and tourism. Hotels, airlines, tour operators, and car hire services are all expected to gain from the influx of international visitors.
Tourism leaders have hailed the achievement as a breakthrough in Uganda’s ambition to become a leading destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). The Uganda Convention Bureau, which coordinated the bid, continues to drive efforts to attract similar high-profile events.
Stakeholders are already gearing up to maximize the opportunity by developing travel packages that encourage delegates to explore Uganda before and after the conference—further extending its economic impact.
The win builds on Uganda’s strong tourism performance, with rising international arrivals and record earnings in recent years. As preparations begin, the country is set to leverage WCEH 2028 not only as a platform for global knowledge exchange but also as a chance to showcase its unique appeal as the Pearl of Africa.
With the world set to converge on Kampala, Uganda is poised to shine as both a hub for innovation and a destination of choice on the global stage.
