The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) CEO, Dr. Lilly Ajarova, has emphasized the power of tourism to not only change travel experiences but also to improve living standards for local communities.
Ajarova made these remarks at Serena Hotel in Kampala while presiding over the partnership launch between UTB and Enable.
This partnership strides towards recognizing stakeholders in the tourism value chain that are keen in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism practices in their business operations.
During the event, Ajarova highlighted the potential of tourism to create opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange.
“Tourism has the power to change travel, improve the living standards and contribute to the maintenance of natural, cultural heritage and the diversity that we have. We strongly believe that the promotion of sustainability will bring us to the achievement of the SDG but also point us to the rest of the Sustainable Development Goals and the attainment of NRM manifesto and the National Development Plan three (NDP III).” Ajarova said.
She emphasized the importance of promoting responsible tourism practices that have a positive impact on both the environment and local communities.
“Responsibility drives sustainability in 2020, the top 20 destination in the world, included the Nordic countries that Germany, France, and all of which remain the top source market for destination Uganda. We hope that the new partnership with Enabel Uganda will work to position Uganda among the top 10 sustainable tourism destination in Africa.” She said.
Ajarova also called on the tourism industry to prioritize the well-being of local communities and the environment, stating that sustainable tourism is key to ensuring the long-term success of the sector. She urged stakeholders to work together to create a more sustainable and inclusive tourism industry that benefits everyone involved.
Tom Vanneste the Resident Representative Enabel Uganda said this partnership between UTB and Enable aims to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable and fair trade tourism to encourage travelers to make more responsible choices when visiting Uganda.
He added that by working together, the two organizations are hoping to promote environmentally friendly practices, support community development initiatives, and preserve Uganda’s natural and cultural heritage.
This engagement is part of the side events ushering in this year’s edition of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo. An annual event organized by the Uganda Tourism Board aimed at showcasing Uganda’s tourism offerings to both domestic and international visitors.
The expo brings together key players in the tourism industry, including tour operators, hoteliers, travel agents, and government officials, to promote Uganda as a premier tourism destination.
POATE provides a platform for networking, learning about industry trends, and forging new partnerships to support the growth of the tourism sector in Uganda.
This year’s edition will happen at Speke Resort Munyonyo, located on the Shores of Lake Victoria from 23rd – 25th May 2024 under the theme: Responsible Tourism.
