The European Union (EU), under its Sustainable Business for Uganda (SB4U) program, hosted a one-day information and consultation meeting focused on “Sustainable Tourism in Uganda.” The event took place at Africana Hotel’s HIBS Hall from 9 am to 4 pm, bringing together various stakeholders in the tourism industry.
The meeting attracted participants from all components of the tourism value chain, including accommodation providers, tour operators, transport services, handicraft makers, training institutions, tourist attractions, and other service providers. Attendees had the opportunity to network and learn about current and upcoming projects supported by the EU and its Member States aimed at bolstering Uganda’s tourism sector.
The event featured three main sections:
- Information Session on “UDB-EU Tourism Facility”: The session provided details on the ongoing call for proposals for the UDB-EU Tourism Facility, which offers grants and loans to private operators under highly favorable conditions.
- Presentation of Projects by EU Member States: Representatives from Germany, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and the Netherlands presented their current and future tourism projects. These projects focus on skilling, product creation, enabling environment certification, and setting standards to enhance the tourism industry in Uganda.
- Consultation on Private Sector Needs: A consultation segment was dedicated to discussing the needs of the private sector, which will inform the development of a new EU project on Eco-tourism, set to commence in 2024.
The event underscores the EU’s commitment to supporting sustainable tourism in Uganda, ensuring that the industry remains resilient and continues to grow in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.
