As Uganda gears up for the celebration of World Tourism Day 2024, the Ministry of Tourism World Life and Antiquities has urged Ugandans to travel more and explore the beauty in the country.
The call was made by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Doreen Katusiime, during a media interview on September 25, 2024, where she said that tourism should be accessible for all Ugandans and not just the elite, with a focus on the education system.
“There has been a view that tourism is for the rich and the elite, but since COVID, ordinary domestic travelers are now becoming interested and visiting tourism centers,” Katusiime said.
This year’s World Tourism Day is slated for this Friday, September 27, 2024, in Nyakasanga grounds, Kasese District, under the theme Tourism and Peace.
Katusiime said that the celebrations will be characterized with schoolchildren participating in quizzes and competitions about tourism, women showcasing their crafts, and others for Ugandans to better understand their country in terms of tourism.
Katusiime, in the spirit of attracting more Ugandans to engage in tourism, said that there are special money rates for Ugandans compared to foreigners.
“There is a perception out there that tourism is too expensive. So when they hear that tracking gorillas is 7 dollars, they don’t know that there is a rate that is for Ugandans, “Katusime noted.
She further noted that the government is trying to remove barriers for the local person to be able to visit their country.
“UWA has set up affordable accommodations not only for schoolchildren but also affordable cottages for families. It’s all about breaking barriers in terms of transport and affordable food and is being worked on. So there are consented efforts to make sure Ugandans can enjoy their country,” she said.
Dr. James Musinguzi, the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), stated that at UWEC, there are segregated fees for Ugandans and schoolchildren touring.
The Ministry continues to note that UWA has even constructed dormitories for young people where they pay practically nothing as a way of ensuring they get them to enjoy.
