The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) Board, led by President Mrs. Yogi Biriggwa, today held strategic talks with the Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA) Board, chaired by Mrs. Suzan Muhwezi, to consolidate advocacy efforts in ongoing national tax policy discussions. The meeting underscored the sector’s shared commitment to fostering a business environment that stimulates growth and attracts new investment.
Representing UTA were Vice President Isa Kato, Secretary General Peter Mwanja, and Technical Advisor Prof. Edwin Sabuhoro of Penn State University. From UHOA’s side, attendees included Counsel Cephas Birungi, Jean Pierre (General Manager, Sheraton Kampala), Jean Byamugisha (CEO, UHOA), and Alex Ojambo.
This engagement builds on UTA’s recent visit to State House Entebbe, where the full Board appealed directly to H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to harmonize and remove specific taxes that are constraining the tourism industry. The President reaffirmed his position that tourism being an export sector, should not be taxed and instructed relevant government bodies to adjust policies accordingly.
The joint UTA–UHOA dialogue has already produced practical proposals that will soon be submitted to the authorities. These recommendations aim to enhance Uganda’s competitiveness within the region by boosting visitor numbers and encouraging greater hospitality investment.
