PRESIDENT MUSEVENI HAILS UGANDA TOURISM ASSOCIATION FOR UNITING THE SECTOR AS TOURISM LEADERS CELEBRATE EXCELLENCE AT THE 2026 UGANDA ANNUAL TOURISM BANQUET

By Our Staff Reporter 

 

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commended the Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) for its outstanding leadership in uniting Uganda’s tourism private sector and providing strategic direction that continues to strengthen the country’s tourism industry.

 

The President’s message was delivered by the Chief Guest, Ms. Diana Museveni, a respected sector player and daughter of the President of Uganda, during the Uganda Tourism Association Annual Banquet 2026 held at Sheraton Kampala Hotel. The glamorous event attracted an overwhelming attendance of tourism stakeholders from across Uganda and abroad, including government leaders, diplomats, development partners, conservation agencies, investors, hospitality establishments, tour operators and captains of the industry.

 

In his speech, President Museveni praised UTA for building a united and coordinated private sector capable of working hand in hand with Government to position tourism among Uganda’s leading economic sectors.

 

The President further applauded the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and the Uganda Tourism Board for their continued efforts in strengthening tourism policy and aggressively marketing Destination Uganda on the global stage. He specifically cited the successful Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2026, which he officially opened in May, noting that the event attracted international buyers, exhibitors and media representatives from nearly 200 countries, significantly raising Uganda’s international tourism profile.

 

President Museveni reiterated Government’s commitment to conserving Uganda’s unique natural heritage, including the iconic Rwenzori Mountains, famously known as the Mountains of the Moon. He emphasized that Government will continue investing in the protection of Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes and natural attractions to preserve the country’s beauty for future generations while ensuring tourism remains a sustainable driver of economic transformation.

 

In recognition of his visionary leadership and long-standing contribution to the development of Uganda’s tourism industry, President Museveni was honoured with the *Lifetime Achievement Award*, the highest recognition presented during the evening. The award was received on his behalf by Ms. Diana Museveni Kyaremera amidst a standing ovation from the distinguished audience.

 

In the same evening, Uganda Tourism Association President Mrs. Yewagnesh Mamo Gesesse Namutebi Biriggwa welcomed guests together with her board and reechoed UTA’s commitment to strengthening institutional leadership, promoting strategic partnerships and implementing its Strategic Plan 2026–2030 to make tourism an even greater contributor to Uganda’s economy. She noted that the Association has continued to build stronger collaboration among its fourteen member associations while deepening engagement with Government, development partners and international tourism stakeholders.

 

The banquet also recognized outstanding individuals whose dedication continues to shape Uganda’s tourism industry. The awards featured two Rhino Awards honouring Distinguished Service by an Under-30 Man and Under-30 Woman, ten Silverback Awards recognizing exceptional leadership and contribution to tourism, several Distinguished Service Awards, and the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

 

The Banquet was a celebration of Uganda’s tourism journey, characterized by elegance, fine dining, entertainment and networking. 

 

The evening brought together stakeholders from across the tourism value chain in a powerful demonstration of unity, collaboration and confidence in Uganda’s future as one of Africa’s premier tourism destinations.

 

As guests departed, the message was clear; Uganda’s tourism industry is stronger when it speaks with one voice. Through partnership, conservation, innovation and strategic leadership, the sector is well positioned to contribute even more significantly to National Development and to showcase the Pearl of Africa to the world