UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | In a bid to regulate the tourism sector and uphold industry standards, the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has announced plans to close down all unlicensed hotels and accommodation facilities.
This move comes as part of the government’s efforts to enforce compliance with the Uganda Tourism Act 2008, which prohibits the operation of tourism enterprises without valid licenses issued by UTB.
The directive was announced on Tuesday 2nd April,2024, urging all unlicensed establishments to register and obtain valid licenses within 14 days, failing which they face closure. This move aligns with Sections 13 and 14 of the Uganda Tourism Act 2008, which prohibits the operation of tourism enterprises without the necessary licenses.
According to the UTB statement, failure to adhere to the regulatory framework outlined in the Uganda Tourism Act can result in fines or imprisonment for offenders.
The notice targets a wide range of tourism-related businesses, including accommodation establishments, restaurants, tour companies, tour guides, and travel agencies.
UTB aims to enforce tourism standards and ensure that all operators comply with the law to maintain industry integrity.
In collaboration with the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA), UTB has issued warnings to government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) regarding engagement with unlicensed accommodation facilities.
The PPDA circular, dated July 2023, emphasises the importance of verifying UTB licenses when procuring hotel and accommodation services. This requirement, mandated by section 13(1) of the Tourism Act 2008, underscores the government’s commitment to upholding industry standards and accountability.
Ms. Jean Byamugisha, the executive director of the Uganda Hotel Owners’ Association (UHOA), commended the government’s efforts to regulate the tourism sector and create a conducive business environment.
She emphasised the role of licensing in promoting accountability and ensuring that businesses contribute positively to society.
“It is essential for all businesses to operate within the confines of the law and support government initiatives. By obtaining licenses, hotels demonstrate their commitment to compliance and accountability,” remarked Ms. Byamugisha.
Mr. Herbert Byaruhanga, the president of the Uganda Tourism Association, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the importance of licensing in enforcing industry standards.
He emphasised the need for all tourism operators to comply with regulatory requirements to maintain industry integrity.
However, challenges within UTB have been acknowledged by industry players, including delays in the licensing process and internal issues affecting regulatory efficiency.
Civy Tumusiime, the chairperson of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators, raised concerns about the licensing backlog and called for urgent measures to address internal challenges within UTB.
“While enforcement of licensing requirements is crucial, UTB must address internal issues to streamline the licensing process and ensure fair treatment of all applicants,” remarked Tumusiime.
READ MORE LIKE THIS:
Uganda Tourism Board Releases Latest Ratings for Hotels 2024
UTB Identifies Shortcomings in Jinja Hotels for Global Conferences
World Bank Report: Kampala Dominates Uganda’s Five-Star Hotels Market
