A project to enhance Uganda’s native tourism.

Many in the Ugandan tourism industry, as well as the Uganda Tourism Board, have noticed that visitors going on safari in Uganda are not fully experiencing the country and are not spending as much money on all things Ugandan as they could. This is because, aside from the more conventional tourist activities like gorilla trekking and white water rafting, visitors are unable to find high-quality Ugandan items, exhibitions, or activities to spend their money on. Travelers have been known to spend as little as 40% of what they had anticipated. Thus, on average, the tourism sector is missing out on 60% of each visitor.

Due to a lack of creativity, distinctiveness, or quality, Uganda’s indigenous vendors don’t seem to have been able to captivate tourists with their goods; as a result, foreign craftsmen are gaining access to the country’s tourism business. Compared to Ugandan products, several craftspeople from South Africa, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have made a name for themselves as excellent African sellers.

Several items are frequently on exhibit for Uganda’s tourism marketIt appears that tourist goods are the same throughout Uganda; therefore, it is imperative to adapt these items and activities to the specific sites in order to create a unique travel experience. Craftspeople and other tourism sector participants must be made aware of the necessary adjustments that must be made if they hope to truly pique visitors’ attention and bring in much-needed revenue.

It has been observed that travelers purchase local handicrafts, including jewelry, paintings, shoes, bags, and other items, as mementos of their travels through Uganda. Nevertheless, when it comes to the merchandise’s quality and uniqueness, the locals are falling short of this need, which allows international artists to profit from Ugandan tourism in its place. Because of this, the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Uganda Tourism Board have had to assemble a team to raise awareness among the public about more efficient methods of drawing in tourists.

UTB has assembled a group whose job it is to instill fresh perspectives in the Ugandan tourist industry. Unlike previous teams, which were primarily composed of public officials, the current team is primarily composed of individuals with backgrounds in the private sector and corporate America. More individuals with a completely different viewpoint and approach than what they have been working with are required for UTB’s new endeavor to succeed. To improve the tourist experience, Ugandans must be made widely aware of the issue, particularly those who work in any role related to tourism. It would be beneficial for Uganda Wildlife Authority stakeholders and tour companies to join the emerging trend that is set to revolutionize the country’s tourist sector.

Blessed with breathtakingly gorgeous scenery, towering mountains, a varied wildlife population, and a wide variety of bird species, Uganda is home to the pearl of Africa. All the reasons to go on a safari in Uganda are numerous and unforgettable: the warm people, the wildlife viewing, the gorilla tracking trips, the white-water rafting experiences, the traditional and cultural exhibitions, the artwork and crafts. I hope UTB succeeds in revitalizing this nation’s tourism industry.