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ation (UHOA), Broadford Ochieng, Deputy CEO of and help maintain high standards for visitor
UTB, and Jean Byamugisha, Executive Director of enjoyment.
UHOA. The grading and classification process, accord-
The grading and classification initiative aims to ing to Broadford Ochieng, will also serve as a vital
evaluate and classify a wide range of accommoda- component in marketing Uganda as a competi-
tion facilities, including hotels, lodges, guesthous- tive tourism destination that prioritizes quality
es, tented camps, serviced apartments, motels, standards. UTB is determined to uphold the Five
cottages, and more. These assessments will en- "As" of tourism, including Attractions, Amenities,
compass various criteria, such as service quality, Activities, Accessibility, and Accommodation, with
facilities, cleanliness, sustainability practices, and a particular focus on the vital role of accommoda-
overall guest satisfaction, aligning Uganda with tion in elevating Uganda as a competitive destina-
globally recognised standards. tion.
The exercise commenced on August 1, 2023, Jean Byamugisha highlighted the significance
with the first phase scheduled to run of grading in aligning the industry with
until September 4. It encompass- international standards, managing guest
es key cities such as Kampala, expectations, and supporting hotels'
Entebbe, Jinja, Masaka, Mbarara, pricing systems. This improved qual-
Fort Portal, and Mbale, with the Uganda continues to recover ity of tourism products and services
goal of ensuring that tourism from the challenges posed by offered to tourists will significantly
the global pandemic.”
enterprises in the country meet Lilly Ajarova, enhance the sector and its compet-
stringent quality assurance CEO UTB itiveness. UTB has equipped field
standards. assessment teams with information
Lilly Ajarova emphasised that this technology equipment preloaded with
exercise is a fulfilment of one of UTB's an automated e-classification system to
core mandates, as outlined in the Tourism ensure efficient and effective evaluation.
Act of 2008, which empowers UTB to register, In summary, this nationwide grading and clas-
inspect, license, and classify tourism enterpris- sification exercise for hotels in Uganda represents
es. The exercise seeks to align the nation and its a pivotal step towards bolstering the quality and
tourism industry with Article 115(2) of the East standards of the nation's accommodation fa-
African Treaty, promoting collaboration among cilities. By promoting excellence in the tourism
partner states to enhance the quality of accom- sector, Uganda is positioning itself as a competi-
modation and catering facilities for visitors within tive and attractive destination for travellers from
the region. around the world. This exercise, conducted every
Susan Muhwezi, Chairperson of the Uganda Ho- two years, reflects the commitment of the Uganda
tel Owners Association, voiced strong support for Tourism Board to maintain high standards in the
the initiative, encouraging hoteliers to participate industry and ensure a memorable and rewarding
as it will enhance the industry's marketing efforts experience for visitors to the "Pearl of Africa."