The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has launched a country-wide door-to-door drive aimed at sensitizing hotels on licensing procedures.
Effected in partnership with Tourism Police, this initiative further strides towards ensuring that hotel owners and operators especially those running small facilities fully understand the licensing process before enforcement measures are put in place.
“We literally have all big hotels already licensed but we lately realized a trend that smaller facilities are not taking the process serious. That’s why we now have this exercise so no one is left behind. This is more for sensitization, education and providing information before we get to do a law enforcement. Its important to first enlighten the public and all stakeholders on what is expected of them.” Ajarova said during a press conference held at Hotel Africana in Kampala.
She highlighted the benefits of being licensed like increased credibility, improved quality standards, and enhanced customer trust.
“We intend to inspect facilities and register/license those meeting minimum standards. Facilities not meeting standards will be given time to improve before potential enforcement.” Ajarova said.
Ajarova also stressed the importance of compliance with licensing regulations, noting that failure to do so could result in penalties or even closure of the establishment.
She indicated that this initiative will also include people operating home stay and air bnbs.
“We know that there are people who are offering homestay services, but we do have standards for homestays as well. So, again, this is to sensitize everyone according to the different services they are offering that there are minimum requirements.” Ajarava adding that the campaign shall also include workshops, training sessions, and informational materials to help hotels navigate the licensing process.
“There is a one off cost implication on registration. This is only UGX 100,000 paid once because your data is also captured once. However we continue doing inspections on an annual basis to ascertain if these facilities are still upholding the minimum standards. Its from these inspections that rating and classification is done.”
Speaking on half of Tourism Police, CP Lawot Patrick pledged to offer the necessary support to Uganda Tourism Board in the execution of this significant and timely campaign.
He added that the issue of licensing hoteliers and facilities is not a one man task thereby calling upon all stakeholders to play their roles so the sector can go to the next level.
“This exercise we are going for is a job for everybody. Government, the private sector, Uganda police etc. We promise to do this in a professional manner.” Lawot said.
Ajarova added that the Uganda Tourism Board is committed to promoting a culture of compliance and professionalism within the hospitality industry, and this campaign is just the first step in achieving that goal.
“ I want to encourage all Hotel owners and operators to take advantage of the resources and support provided by the board to ensure that their establishments are fully licensed and operating in accordance with the law.” She said.
