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ganda joined the rest of the world for United tribute actively to the shared vision of sustainable tourism
Nations World Tourism Organization (UN- development," he said.
WTO) 66th Regional Commission for Africa, As a member of UNWTO, Uganda is poised to benefit
opened by Prime Minister Republic of Mau- from a plethora of advantages, including access to valuable
Uritius Pravind Kumar Jugnauth in Mauritius. tourism research and data, technical assistance, capaci-
The Uganda delegation was led by Minister of Tourism ty-building initiatives, and opportunities for networking
Wildlife and Antiquities Hon. Tom Butime, joined by UTB with industry leaders from around the world. Additionally,
Board Director Mr. Mwanja Paul Patrick, and CEO UTB Lilly Uganda's membership will bolster its reputation as a top-
Ajarova among others. The team rolled out the country’s notch tourist destination, attracting even more visitors
Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa brand to the delegates, seeking unforgettable experiences.
and sealed the country’s commitment to sustainable and UNWTO latest data indicates that tourism across Africa is
responsible tourism. This has opened opportunities for returning to post the pandemic numbers with International To achieve it, we
collaboration of Uganda with the global tourism communi- arrivals across Africa back to 88% of pre-pandemic levels aim to promote
innovation,
ty. Uganda recognizes the significance of striking a harmo- at the end of the first quarter of this year. Globally, interna- advocate for Brand
nious balance between tourism growth and environmental tional tourism receipts reached USD 1 billion in 2022, a 50% Africa, facilitate
conservation. Through active participation in this UNWTO growth compared to 2021. travel, and unlock
meeting, Uganda reaffirmed its commitment to promote CEO UTB Lilly Ajarova noted that “Uganda continues to growth through
investment and
sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communi- recover from the challenges posed by the global pandemic. public-private
ties, protect natural resources, and preserve cultural heri- The UNWTO membership will serve as a catalyst for rejuve- partnerships.”
tage. nating the tourism sector, fostering economic growth, and Zurab
In his welcome remarks, UNWTO Secretary-General providing livelihood opportunities for local communities.” Pololikashvili
Zurab Pololikashvili stated that “The UNWTO Agenda for The meeting realigned the sector’s role as a driver of devel- UNWTO Secretary-
General
Africa had been adapted. Our vision for African tourism is opment and opportunity across the region. Special discus-
one of strong governance, more education and more and sion was given to the opportunity’s tourism presents like
better jobs. To achieve it, we aim to promote innovation, ad- jobs and investments.
vocate for Brand Africa, facilitate travel, and unlock growth UTB Launches Nationwide Grading and Classification
through investment and public-private partnerships.” Exercise for Hotels.
Uganda's Minister of Tourism, Hon. Tom Butime on the The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) is undertaking a
event sidelines explained that the country’s participation significant development in the country's tourism sector
in the UNWTO activities reflects Uganda’s unwavering with the launch of a nationwide grading and classifica-
commitment to preserve its natural treasures, promoting tion exercise for hotels. The exercise was revealed during a
cultural exchange, and empowering local communities press conference held at the UTB headquarters, featuring
through responsible tourism practices. “We are thrilled to key figures such as Lilly Ajarova, the CEO of UTB, Susan
collaborate with the global tourism community and con- Muhwezi, Chairperson of the Uganda Hotel Owners Associ-