Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has announced a new diplomatic role for his wife, Anita Rukundo, following her appointment as the Honorary Consul of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas in Uganda.
Rukundo presented her Letters of Credence to Foreign Affairs Minister Adonia Ayebare at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, formally taking up the voluntary role aimed at strengthening relations between Uganda and the Caribbean nation.
Tayebwa accompanied his wife during the presentation ceremony, which he described as an important step towards deepening cooperation between the two countries, particularly in tourism.
In a statement, the Deputy Speaker said Rukundo had identified opportunities for Uganda to learn from The Bahamas, which has established itself as a major international tourism destination.
She highlighted the Caribbean country's tourism performance, noting that The Bahamas attracted more than 12.5 million visitors in 2025 and generated over $5.27 billion in tourism revenue.
Uganda, by comparison, earned approximately $1.6 billion from tourism, highlighting the potential for increased investment, knowledge-sharing and strategic partnerships to strengthen the country's tourism industry.
Rukundo said Uganda could benefit from The Bahamas' experience in promoting destinations, attracting international visitors and developing tourism-related businesses.
Her priorities include joint marketing initiatives, tourism exchanges and partnerships involving travel agencies, hotels, airlines, tour operators and tourism authorities in both countries.
The proposed collaboration is expected to create opportunities for tourism stakeholders to share expertise and explore ways of attracting more international visitors to Uganda.
Tourism remains an important contributor to Uganda's economy, supporting employment, businesses and foreign exchange earnings. Strengthening international partnerships is among the approaches that could help the country expand its tourism market and improve its competitiveness.
Tayebwa expressed confidence in his wife's ability to deliver on the assignment, noting that the honorary consul position would require her to commit personal time and resources.
"I know her potential and that's why she took on this critical voluntary task where she must devote her time and resources," he said, congratulating her on the appointment.
He also thanked Ceasor Mulenga and Amos Wekesa for attending the ceremony.
Rukundo's appointment comes as Uganda seeks to strengthen international cooperation and attract more visitors to its tourism destinations.