Uganda Tourism Board to Grow Tourism Sector
The Uganda tourism governing bodies – Uganda Tourism Board and Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) liaised to make Uganda the top tourism destination in Africa.
This was revealed during a cocktail celebrating the launch a new strategic marketing plan 2014 – 2019 at Serena Hotel Kampala which comes at a time when the tourist arrivals according to the 2010 records is; Kenya 1470,000, Tanzania 754,000 and Uganda 946,000.
These figures have changed in recent years, following insecurities in Kenya and eventual cancelations of bookings in Kenya after a spate of terrorism attacks and threats there.
We expect that the new strategic plan is embarked on implemented, using it as a basis for decision making on priorities and actions required to accelerate tourism in the country as tourism offers a contribution to economic growth, social inclusion and environmental preservation.
According to the minister of tourism Maria Mutagamba in speculating that if Uganda is to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), Uganda biggest export, tourism has to be developed to its best.
“The contribution of tourism to the economic development of Uganda is well accentuated in Uganda Vision 2040,” said Mutagamba.
The minister further emphasized that developing tourism in the country can best be achieved when the private sector works hand in hand with the government. This plan will enable government to support UTA and have it implemented.”
UTA president Herbert Byaruhanga expressed his dedication to cooperate and coordinate the entire industry. The relationship between UTB, UTA, Uganda Hotel Owners Association, Uganda Bird Guides Association and Uganda Tour Drivers Association has never blossomed like it is today,” said Byaruhanga.
“The challenge is on us to identify the key strategic issues and propose strategies.” UTA is the umbrella body which brings together all those mentioned including Uganda Travel Agent Association and Uganda Community Tourism Association.