The CEO of the Uganda Tourism Association, Mr. Muhereza Kyamutetera, had the distinct honor of representing the association at the launch of the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s (UWA) Open Park Days initiative. This exciting event is set to take place on October 17th and 18th, 2024, and offers all Ugandans a unique opportunity to explore some of the country’s most iconic national parks and protected areas without paying entrance fees.
Among the stunning locations included in the initiative are Murchison Falls, Lake Mburo, Kidepo Valley, Queen Elizabeth, and Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. In addition to free access, visitors can enjoy complimentary game drives, providing an immersive experience of Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Mr. Kyamutetera praised UWA for its innovative initiative, particularly as Uganda intensifies efforts to recover fully from the pandemic’s impact on the tourism sector. He emphasized the importance of raising awareness about Uganda’s rich tourism potential, noting that every decision made by consumers—tourists in this case—begins with awareness. “Awareness is the foundation for all subsequent stages in the consumer decision-making process,” he stated. By introducing the Open Park Days initiative, UWA is not only creating awareness but also encouraging a higher level of engagement—what he termed “sampling”—which directly stimulates interest in wildlife tourism.
This increased interest is vital for the private sector, encompassing tour operators, travel agents, accommodation providers, tour guides, community-based organizations, cultural institutions, event organizers, and artisans. By promoting wildlife tourism, UWA is effectively boosting business opportunities for these stakeholders, creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire industry.
Mr. Kyamutetera also took a moment to commend the UWA team, led by Mr. Sam Mwandha, for their dedication and stewardship of Uganda’s tourism assets. Managing the country’s 10 national parks, 12 wildlife reserves, 5 community wildlife management areas, and 13 wildlife sanctuaries 24/7 is no small feat. Under Mr. Mwandha’s leadership, UWA has not only regained but also surpassed its pre-COVID-19 visitor numbers—reporting 387,914 visitors in 2023 compared to 323,861 in 2019—and revenues, with an increase from UGX 124.3 billion in FY 2018/19 to UGX 148.7 billion in FY 2023/24.
Recognizing the critical role UWA plays in the tourism ecosystem, Mr. Kyamutetera called for a closer, mutually beneficial working relationship grounded in trust, respect, and consultative decision-making. He emphasized the importance of proactive communication and expressed the Uganda Tourism Association’s commitment to collaborating with UWA to enhance the volume and value of tourism in the country.
As the Open Park Days initiative approaches, Mr. Kyamutetera invites all Ugandans to seize this opportunity to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Uganda’s national parks. Together, he believes, we can build a more professional, competitive, thriving, and inclusive tourism sector that showcases the best of what Uganda has to offer.
