Tour Operators Seek Visa, Tax and Infrastructure Reforms to Boost Sustainable Tourism

What the report says

Uganda’s tour operators are urging government to make tourism more competitive by improving visa access, roads, telecommunications, taxation and skills training. According to Nile Post, the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) says these changes are needed to attract more visitors while also supporting conservation and local communities.

AUTO chief executive Matilda Iremera said difficult visa procedures can push travellers to choose neighboring destinations with simpler entry rules. She also pointed to weak road links to protected areas, unreliable internet and phone service at some lodges, and the high cost of marketing Uganda at international travel fairs. AUTO board member James Mwere added that operators need more support for sustainable tourism practices, including training and better transport links such as domestic flights to remote destinations.

The Uganda Tourism Board, meanwhile, is pushing businesses to adapt to global sustainability expectations. Senior branding officer Daniel Irunga said tourism companies increasingly need to balance environmental care, community benefit and profitability, or risk losing access to some markets. He also noted concerns about a heavy tax burden in the sector and said the finance ministry has been asked to look at consolidating multiple taxes, though no timetable was given.

The remarks came ahead of the second AUTO Tourism Gala, set for November 27 at Mestil Hotel in Kampala. The event is expected to focus on sustainable tourism and the need to protect Uganda’s natural attractions for the long term.