The Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) has held a productive meeting with Enabel, the Belgian Federal Government’s development agency, to explore collaborative opportunities aimed at fostering growth in tourism and enhancing youth employment.
The meeting, attended by UTA President Yogi Biriggwa, CEO Muhereza Kyamutetera, and Technical Advisor Edwin Sabuhoro, included representatives from Enabel, such as Enterprise Development and Decent Work Expert David Maraka and Officer Rutaro Gershom.
According the UTA Chief Executive Officer Muhereza Kyamutetera, the discussions were centered on forging partnerships that align with both organizations’ goals for mutual development.
“As the UTA continues to advocate for a unified industry voice, this partnership with Enabel presents a promising avenue for collaborative growth, ensuring that Uganda’s tourism sector not only thrives but also supports future generations by providing them with the skills and job opportunities necessary for sustainable development.” Kyamutetera said.
Enabel is currently implementing the WeWork – Green and Decent Jobs for Youth project in Uganda, a transformative five-year initiative funded by Belgium and the European Union.
This project focuses on improving access to decent employment for youth, promoting sustainable growth through skills development, entrepreneurship, and job creation.
Several stakeholders have identified sustainable tourism as a high-potential value chain within this initiative, with the UTA aiming to leverage this opportunity to not only boost tourism in Uganda but also to create meaningful job opportunities for the youth.
The Uganda Tourism Association is the umbrella association that brings together all tourism associations in Uganda. The current associations include the Association of Uganda Tour Operators, Uganda Safari Guides Association, Uganda hotel owners Association, The Uganda Association of travel agents, and Uganda community Tourism Association. These associations altogether represent tour operators, travel agents, accommodation facilities, tour guides, community-based organizations in the Pearl of Africa.
