Floor 2, Room 27, Capital Shoppers - Nakawa

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Uganda Tourism Association - UTA, Floor 2, Room 27, Capital Shoppers

03/12/2025

UGANDA TOURISM ASSOCIATION ENGAGES U.S. EMBASSY TO BOOST TOURISM, INVESTMENT & MARKET ACCESS.

The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) has stepped up efforts to deepen Uganda–U.S. tourism relations. The UTA President Ms Yogi Birigwa and Technical Advisor Prof. Edwin Sabuhoro met with U.S. Ambassador William W. Popp and Economic Officer Jenny Niedinger to explore new avenues for tourism growth, investment and cooperation.

Ambassador Popp reaffirmed the strong appetite among American travelers for authentic African experiences that highlight Uganda’s wildlife, culture and adventure offerings.

He noted that improved road infrastructure, digital access in parks and greater travel convenience would further elevate Uganda’s appeal.

The discussion centred on four key areas of collaboration:-

1. Market Promotion
Coordinated roadshows and targeted B2B linkages within the US to expand Uganda’s presence in the American travel market.

2. Investment Facilitation
Opportunities for U.S. investors to support tourism infrastructure, digital connectivity and innovation within the sector.

3. Capacity Building
Knowledge-sharing to enhance service standards, sustainability practices and digital marketing skills for Uganda’s tourism workforce.

4. Visa Reciprocity
UTA expressed the need to engage the Government of Uganda on reinstating the 2-year visa for American travelers that is vital for repeat visits and long-term business. The recent move by the U.S. to reduce visa validity to three (3) months mirrors Uganda’s current policy towards U.S. citizens.

19/11/2025

UGANDA TOURISM ASSOCIATION SEALS STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS TO BOOST DESTINATION UGANDA

18th November, 2025
Kampala, Uganda

The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) Board today held a high-level strategic meeting with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) at the Ministry Headquarters in Kampala, marking a renewed commitment to strengthening cooperation between Uganda’s tourism private sector and the Country’s diplomatic missions abroad.

UTA President Mrs. Yogi Biriggwa introduced the Apex body to the Ministry, highlighting its core mandate of advocating for sector-friendly policies, driving public - private partnerships, and promoting professionalism and service standards across the tourism value chain. She emphasized UTA’s role in championing capacity building for its members to enhance visitor experiences and improve Uganda’s regional and continental competitiveness.

The UTA delegation included: Isa Kato Vice President (AUTO), Azhar Jaffer (UHOA), Aldrine Nankunda (USAGA), Evans Seruganya (NACCAU) and Peter Kagwa (UACII).

The MOFA leadership was represented by Mr. Vincent Waiswa Bagiire, Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Henry Mayega, Head of the Department of International Economic Cooperation, and Ms. Florence Kyasiimire, Counselor in charge of Regional Affairs. The officials welcomed the UTA team and reaffirmed MOFA’s commitment to aligning tourism promotion with Uganda’s foreign policy priorities.

The PS emphasized that Uganda’s diplomatic missions will play a pivotal role in amplifying diaspora engagement, supporting domestic tourism campaigns internationally, and establishing structured communication channels to ensure seamless coordination with the private sector.

Key outcomes of the meeting included:-
👉🏼 A commitment to annual performance reporting on tourism diplomacy.
👉🏼 A sharper focus on regional and international travel promotion, including MICE markets.
👉🏼 Enhanced support for private-sector teams promoting Uganda abroad, particularly through improved visa facilitation.
👉🏼 Strengthened collaboration on tourism content development, ensuring missions abroad have updated, compelling, and standardized promotional material.

The PS encouraged UTA to accelerate training and skilling initiatives, especially in service excellence.

A major resolution reached was the establishment of a tripartite engagement between UTA, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife & Antiquities. This joint framework aims to streamline and expedite Uganda’s visa application processes- an essential step in improving destination accessibility and competitiveness in the global tourism marketplace.

The meeting concluded with congratulatory remarks to Uganda for securing an award at the recent Tourism Expo in Lugano, Switzerland; an achievement that underscores the country’s rising visibility and appeal on the international tourism stage.

15/11/2025

UGANDA TOURISM ASSOCIATION DEEPENS COLLABORATION WITH EUROPEAN EMBASSIES TO EXPAND MARKET ACCESS.

The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) has continued its strategic outreach to partner with embassies in key European source markets, with a recent courtesy visit to the Embassy of Sweden in Kampala. This engagement forms part of UTA’s ongoing programme to strengthen diplomatic, commercial and tourism development partnerships that open doors for Uganda’s private sector across Europe.

The delegation was led by UTA President Mrs. Yogi Biriggwa, accompanied by UTA Vice President Mr. Isa Kato (representing AUTO), Secretary General Mr. Mwanja Peter (representing UACII), and Mr. Azhar Jaffer (representing UHOA). The leadership team presented UTA’s agenda of improving sector competitiveness, building institutional capacity and enhancing collaboration with international partners.

Mrs. Biriggwa emphasized the need for expanded cooperation in training, capacity building and product development, noting that such partnerships are essential for empowering UTA’s member associations and improving service standards across the industry.

Sweden’s Ambassador, H.E. Maria Hakansson, expressed great enthusiasm for the visit and reaffirmed Sweden’s long-standing support to Uganda’s tourism sector. She highlighted previous collaborations in reforestation initiatives, community-based tourism, and upcoming projects focused on job creation, enhanced market access, digital transformation, skilling of women and youth, and tourism-related infrastructure.

UTA further requested more favourable visa facilitation, improved access for members to Swedish markets, support in product diversification and partnership in tourism marketing expos. Other discussions included guide skilling in the Swedish language and addressing travel advisories that impact visitor inflows.

The meeting took place in a warm and optimistic atmosphere, with both parties committing to nurturing a dynamic and developmental relationship. The Embassy of Sweden appreciated UTA’s proactive engagement and pledged continued support.

This visit is part of UTA’s wider diplomatic initiative launched several months ago to engage European and American embassies in Uganda and build strong pathways for travel facilitation, business linkages and market access.

These efforts have already begun to open valuable opportunities for UTA members, strengthening partnerships and increasing the visibility of Uganda’s tourism offerings.

31/10/2025

UK Envoy Hosts High-Level Tourism Dialogue to Strengthen Uganda–UK Collaboration.

Kampala, Uganda
October 22, 2025:

The British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney MBE, hosted a high-level dinner bringing together key leaders from Uganda’s tourism sector to reflect on the industry’s recent progress and shared challenges.

The engagement, attended by representatives from the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) and the World Bank, provided a platform to discuss the sector’s strategic direction, increased collaboration and emerging opportunities for growth.

Discussions centered on strengthening Uganda’s competitiveness as a preferred travel destination, with emphasis on infrastructure development, conservation gains and long-term investment. Key issues such as visa processing, travel advisories, and seasonal pricing were highlighted.

Participants also discussed the growing role of Uganda Airlines in opening new markets and facilitating connectivity, especially ahead of Uganda’s participation in the upcoming World Travel Market (WTM) in London. The World Bank shared insights from its sustained engagement in tourism, calling for enhanced data collection, private sector involvement and coordinated policy frameworks to drive sustainable growth.

Feedback from UK tour operators reaffirmed Uganda’s strong appeal as an authentic and nature-rich destination, while also pointing to marketing, political and logistical barriers that must be addressed to unlock greater potential.

UTA President Mrs. Yogi Biriggwa emphasized the need for improved advocacy across government and continued investment in destination marketing and industry facilitation.

Notable attendees included Dr. Lily Ajarova, Senior Presidential Advisor and former CEO of UTB, and Ms. Juliana Kagwa, the current CEO of UTB, among other senior industry figures.

25/10/2025

Historic Meeting Unites Uganda’s Tourism Private Sector Under One Roof.

Kampala, Uganda – October 21, 2025

For the first time in the history of Uganda’s tourism sector, leaders of all major private sector tourism associations convened under one roof; a milestone engagement organized by the Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) and graciously hosted by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB).

The landmark meeting marked a new era of unity, dialogue and shared purpose as stakeholders reaffirmed their collective commitment to work together in strengthening Uganda’s tourism value chain.

The engagement followed a joint call for structured and regular dialogue between the private sector and UTB to address operational challenges, identify practical solutions and coordinate joint advocacy for wider government policy reforms.

The meeting was graced by the Chairperson of the UTB Board, Mrs. Pearl Kakooza, and the Chief Executive Officer of UTB, Mrs. Juliana Kagwa, together with other senior members of the UTB management team. The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) was represented by its President, Mrs. Yogi Biriggwa, who moderated the discussions and Mr. Isa Kato, the Vice President of UTA.

Associations in attendance included:- the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO), Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA), Hotel General Managers Association of Uganda (HOGMAU), Buganda Heritage and Tourism Board (BHTB), The Uganda Association of Travel Agents (TUGATA), Association of Women in Tourism and Trade (AUWOTT), National Crafts and Creatives Association of Uganda (NACCAU) and Kasese Tourism Investors Forum (KTIF).

Key issues raised during the discussions included the high cost of doing business especially electricity, taxation, and lending rates as well as the need for improved infrastructure, both road and digital, in tourism areas. Stakeholders also proposed the establishment of government hotel training schools within Kampala to meet the city’s workforce demand, aligning hospitality training curricula with hotel star ratings, reforming tour operator licensing policies, streamlining documentation for international expos, addressing fraud and delayed government payments and enhancing guide training at Buganda cultural tourism sites.

Participants also strongly emphasized collective branding efforts under the “Explore Uganda” destination identity, encouraging all tourism players to contribute to a unified, consistent, and globally competitive national image.

In their remarks, UTB leadership commended UTA for initiating such a constructive and inclusive engagement, pledging to return with “a bounty of good news” addressing the issues discussed.

The meeting was characterized by mutual respect, open dialogue and a shared sense of purpose a strong demonstration that stakeholder engagement and unity remain the cornerstone of Uganda’s tourism transformation.

16/10/2025

CRAFTS SECTOR URGES GOVERNMENT SUPPORT AS UGANDA MARKS INTERNATIONAL CRAFTS DAY.

October 15th, 2025
Kampala, Uganda

Uganda joined the rest of the world to celebrate International Crafts Day in an event organized by the National Association of Crafts and Creatives of Uganda (NACCAU) at the National Theatre. The day highlighted the creativity, resilience, and cultural pride of Uganda’s artisans.

The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) was represented by its President, Mrs. Yogi Biriggwa, who extended warm greetings and congratulations to the crafts community. She hailed NACCAU for being a vital pillar in the tourism value chain, showcasing the artistry, identity, and ingenuity of Ugandan hands. “Uganda’s tourism story is not complete without crafts,” Mrs. Biriggwa said. “When tourists visit our country, they carry home not only memories of our wildlife and landscapes, but also a piece of Uganda’s soul often in the form of a handmade basket, woven mat, or carved drum.”

Mrs. Biriggwa pledged UTA’s continued support for initiatives that promote local content, open markets, and empower youth and women through creative enterprise. She also called for improved quality, branding, and the integration of crafts into the tourism experience across lodges, parks, and airports.

The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) was represented by Ms. Anne Awori, who attended on behalf of the UTB Chief Executive Officer. She commended the crafts community for complementing Uganda’s tourism appeal through creativity and cultural expression.

The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Serunkuma Bruno, a retired Makerere University don and ceramicist, who praised NACCAU’s 32-year legacy. He noted that the association houses 49 shops, brings together over 200 artisans, and operates six regional centers including Gulu, Fort Portal, Jinja, and Mbarara.

Mr. Serunkuma urged government to partner with NACCAU in skilling programs aimed at empowering street children with hands-on talents to improve livelihoods and self-reliance.

Mr. Seruganya Evans, a UTA Board Member representing NACCAU, also attended the function and represented the NACCAU Chairperson, Mrs. Ojara Margret.

The event was graced by Hon. Hajjati Minsa Kabanda, Minister for Kampala, who represented government. She commended NACCAU’s contribution to cultural promotion and pledged to engage with the crafts community on their concerns.

“We recognize the importance of crafts in tourism and empowerment,” Minister Kabanda said. “Government will work with NACCAU to support skilling programs and improve market access for Ugandan artisans.”

NACCAU also appealed to government to prioritize Ugandan-made souvenirs for official gifting and to market crafts alongside other tourism products to increase global visibility.

Speakers across the event emphasized skilling, innovation, and product quality as key to making Ugandan crafts more competitive internationally.

11/10/2025

TOURISM UNITED AS UTA SPARKS SECTOR REVIVAL.

Member Chairpersons’ Breakfast Meeting
Sheraton Hotel Kampala
7th October 2025

The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) held a Member Chairpersons’ Breakfast Meeting at Sheraton Hotel Kampala, reaffirming its role in uniting Uganda’s tourism private sector under a shared vision for growth and transformation.

Chaired by UTA President Mrs. Yogi Biriggwa, alongside the Board, Secretary General Mr. Peter Mwanja, and Coordinator Mr. Joshua Akampumuza, the engagement brought together leaders from the Association’s nine member bodies to review progress, strengthen collaboration, and align efforts toward revitalizing the industry which is now recognized as one of Uganda’s priority sectors for economic development.

Key highlights included the upcoming launch of the UTA Strategic Plan on 27th November 2025 (supported by Enabel), the successful transition from COUTA to UTA and the recruitment of a professional Secretariat team to enhance operational efficiency. UTA also reported strengthened partnerships with key institutions including the World Bank, ITC, UNDP, CBI, OWC, MTWA, UTB, and UWA.

Members proposed several strategies to advance the sector, such as establishing a Tourism Development Fund, supporting women-led tourism organisations, improving safety standards in protected areas, promoting heritage tourism, and expanding hospitality training institutions.

The meeting was marked by mutual respect and open dialogue, with members listening and supporting each other; an encouraging sign of unity that has not always been common in the past.

Ms. Pearl Kakooza, UTA Board Member representing TUGATA and Chairperson of UTB, urged members to elect visionary, unifying leaders who prioritize development over personal interests.

In her closing remarks, Mrs. Biriggwa commended members’ renewed spirit of collaboration, integrity, and shared purpose, noting that UTA’s transformation is setting the stage for a stronger, more professional, and inclusive tourism sector in Uganda.

09/10/2025

Happy 63rd Independence Day, Uganda! 🇺🇬 Let's celebrate our great nation that nurtures and sustains us. May our motherland continue to soar to greater heights, filled with peace, prosperity, and unity. Long live Uganda! 🎉

04/10/2025

UTA MEETS BRITISH HIGH COMMISSION TO UNLOCK OPPORTUNITIES.

The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA), led by President Mrs. Yogi Biriggwa, together with Secretary General Mr. Peter Mwanja and Treasurer Ms. Monalisa Aman, held a strategic meeting with the British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney MBE, to explore avenues for strengthening Uganda–UK tourism relations.

The discussions centered on deepening cooperation in tourism promotion, investment, capacity building and cultural diplomacy. UTA presented key areas where stronger collaboration with the British High Commission can make a transformative impact:-

👉🏼 Tourism Promotion
Positioning Uganda more strongly in the UK market by connecting UTA to UK travel trade, media and influencers.

👉🏼 Visa & Travel Facilitation
Engaging on smoother visa processes and supporting dialogue around UK travel advisories to improve travel confidence.

👉🏼 Investment & Partnerships
Mobilizing UK investors and development funds for Uganda’s tourism enterprises.

👉🏼 Capacity Building Enhancing skills development and professional exchange with UK institutions, particularly through ongoing TVET initiatives.

👉🏼 Policy & Advocacy Leveraging diplomatic support to boost Uganda’s competitiveness as a global tourism destination.

👉🏼 Events & Cultural Diplomacy
Partnering on forums, familiarization (FAM) trips, and cultural showcases to highlight Uganda’s unique offerings.

The High Commissioner reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s tourism growth, noting that the UK government is already investing in infrastructure, including tourism roads. She welcomed further input from UTA on priority projects and expressed interest in engaging with UTA’s forthcoming Strategic Plan to identify areas of alignment.

On market access, H.E. Chesney highlighted opportunities for UTA to connect directly with UK outbound tour operators and travel agents, both by hosting them in Uganda and facilitating UTA members’ participation in UK events.

“Tourism is our shared bridge to prosperity, Cultural exchange and sustainable development. UTA is committed to building strong international partnerships that uplift our members and position Uganda as a top global destination.” says Mrs. Biriggwa.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continued dialogue and collaboration, including follow-up sessions on training opportunities and joint promotional activities in the UK market.

-UGDiplomaticEngagement

24/09/2025

UGANDA TOURISM ASSOCIATION STRENGTHENS DIPLOMATIC PARTNERSHIPS TO BOOST SECTOR GROWTH.

September 24th, 2025
Kampala, Uganda

The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) has today reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships with the diplomatic community that directly support and facilitate tourism trade. Led by UTA President, Mrs. Yogi Biriggwa, the Association engaged with the Embassy of Kenya in Uganda to explore areas of collaboration that will create lasting opportunities for the tourism private sector in both countries.

In her address, Mrs. Biriggwa thanked the Kenyan High Commission, represented by H.E. High Commissioner Joash Maangi, for welcoming the engagement, and emphasized UTA’s focus on building synergies that expand business opportunities for its members. She highlighted the importance of closer collaboration between embassies and the private sector to enhance capacity-building in areas such as crafts, guiding, and hospitality, thereby raising industry standards and competitiveness.

H.E. Maangi commended UTA’s initiative, noting that embassies serve a dual role; promoting the host Country to their citizens back home while also connecting Ugandans to opportunities in their own Countries. He underscored the value of partnerships with industry associations such as UTA in broadening market access and advancing regional tourism growth.

Key outcomes of the meeting included:-

1. Joint Marketing Campaigns Abroad – positioning East Africa as a single destination.

2. Promotion of Combined Itineraries – offering Uganda-Kenya cross-border safaris and tours.

3. Facilitation of Training Programs – tailored to UTA members in crafts, guiding, and hospitality.

4. Shared Regional Events Calendar – enhancing coordination and visibility of tourism activities.

5. Support for EAC Integration Efforts – including the accelerated implementation of the East African Tourist Visa (effective 1st July 2025) and the reduction of non-tariff barriers.

6. Fight Against Cross-Border Fraud – safeguarding professionalism and integrity within the sector.

The UTA delegation included Mr. Isa Kato (Vice President), Mr. Peter Mwanja (Secretary General), and Ms. Monalisa Aman (Treasurer). The Kenyan side was represented by Ms. Doris Kommen (Economic Attaché), Mr. Guyo Wario (Minister-counselor)and Mr. Boaz Oriwo (Immigration Attaché).

Looking ahead, UTA is committed to engaging more embassies in Uganda, recognizing their direct role in facilitating visas, supporting conservation, providing training, and promoting Uganda’s tourism destination. These partnerships will continue to create value for members through stronger business linkages, expanded market opportunities, and a unified regional brand.

19/09/2025

Uganda Tourism Association Hails UK and Diplomatic Community Support for Conservation and Tourism.

Kampala, Uganda
September 19th, 2025

The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) has applauded the British Government, the diplomatic community and sector stakeholders for their unwavering support towards conservation and tourism in Uganda.

Speaking at a high-level event hosted at the residence of the British High Commissioner, H.E. Lisa Chesney MBE on Wednesday 17th Sept, Mrs. Yogi Biriggwa, President of UTA, commended the recent gesture of naming a Rhino under the “Name the Rhino, Save the Rhinos” campaign, describing it as a powerful symbol of commitment to sustainability and wildlife protection.

“The act goes beyond symbolism; it reaffirms that conservation and tourism are inseparable pillars of Uganda’s future,” Mrs. Biriggwa said.

She further applauded the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), custodians of Uganda’s wildlife, and praised Dr. James Musinguzi, Executive Director of UWA, for spearheading initiatives that safeguard endangered species and ensure conservation benefits reach communities. Special recognition was also given to Capt. Roy, who generously provided land decades ago that continues to serve as a sanctuary for Uganda’s rhinos.

The event was attended by ambassadors from the United States, France, the European Union, Kenya, and several other diplomats, along with senior government officials, investors, and tourism leaders. Mrs. Biriggwa hailed the embassies for their role in facilitating tourism through visa provision and called on them to reduce the rampant travel advisories that directly impact Uganda’s tourism sector.

Also present were the Minister of Tourism, Hon. Col. (Rtd) Tom Butime, the Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA) Chairperson, Juliana Kagwa, CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) and the UTB team led by Mr. Francis, Marketing Manager.

The gathering also celebrated the launch of Uganda Airlines’ direct flights between Entebbe and London, a milestone Mrs. Biriggwa said will make Uganda more accessible to British travelers, strengthen diaspora connections and open greater opportunities for trade, tourism and investment.

She emphasized the importance of continued diplomatic engagement, stronger joint marketing campaigns, business-to-business linkages and community-based conservation programs.

“With partners like you and with the dedication of institutions such as the Uganda Wildlife Authority, we can ensure that conservation and tourism remain not only drivers of economic growth, but also lasting legacies for future generations,” Mrs. Biriggwa concluded.

12/09/2025

NEW REFORMS ARE COMING SOON.

The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) embarked on a constitutional review exercise through a newly established Committee, formed during the Annual General Meeting held in July this year. The Committee has been consulting widely on critical issues such as membership, fees and terms of service, with the aim of strengthening governance within the Tourism Private Sector Apex body.

The proposed reforms will soon be presented to the membership for adoption during an anticipated Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM). This process reflects the current leaderships' commitment to transparency and accountability while positioning the Association to better serve and guide its member associations.

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