Kampala, 21st May 2024 – The Kampala Sheraton Hotel hosted the travel industry’s determination to embrace a sustainable and innovative future as the Uganda Association of Travel Agents (TUGATA) celebrated its 25th anniversary. The well-attended convention brought together industry leaders, government officials, and international partners, setting the stage for thought-provoking discussions and actionable strategies under the theme “Bridging Innovation and Sustainability Gaps in the Travel Industry.”
Hon. Martin Mugarra Butime, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the pressing need to integrate advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and collaborative strategies to address environmental and social challenges within the sector. Butime advised travel agents to educate travelers on sustainable tourism practices, such as respecting local cultures, reducing waste, and supporting local economies, which can foster more responsible travel behaviors.
The Minister’s words resonated, highlighting the potential of public-private partnerships in funding sustainability initiatives and the importance of community involvement in ensuring tourism benefits local populations. He assured TUGATA of the government’s collaboration and support in advancing their development aspirations.
Pearl Hoareau Kakooza, the Chairperson of TUGATA, commended partners and the parent ministry for recognizing the association’s contributions to the wider tourism sector. She acknowledged the invaluable partnerships and stakeholder engagements that have fostered strong relationships with organizations like Dubai Tourism, South African Tourism, and Travelport.
Regional collaboration was evident as delegates from the regional affiliate associations, Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA), Tanzania Society of Travel Agents (TASOTA), and Rwanda Association of Travel Agencies (RATA), attended the convention. The shared challenges and opportunities within the East African travel industry underscored the need for a united front in driving innovation and sustainability.
Tareq Binbrek, the Manager for the Africa Region at Dubai Economic and Tourism, highlighted Dubai’s readiness to welcome travelers and companies from the region, emphasizing the city’s diverse offerings as the world’s number one tourist destination.
The convention marked a significant milestone, as Uganda’s travel industry demonstrated remarkable resilience, with tourist arrivals increasing by 56.4% according to statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife & Antiquities. This encouraging trend points towards a full recovery, albeit with uncertainties that require vigilant monitoring and adaptation of strategies.
As the event concluded, the collective resolve to bridge innovation and sustainability gaps in the travel industry was palpable. TUGATA and its affiliate associations’ commitment to fairness, transparency, and ethical practices, as well as their mission to offer viable and excellent travel solutions while promoting friendly relationships between clients and their members, resonated among attendees.
The 25th anniversary celebration signified not merely a commemoration of the past but a bold step towards shaping a future where innovation and sustainability converge, propelling the travel industry towards a more responsible and prosperous era.
Source: KATA Media Desk.
