Tour operators and NFA officials in Budongo forest

THE National Forestry Authority (NFA) has appealed to the private sector to come together and improve eco- tourism in the country, writes Roderick Ahimbazwe.

While conducting a tour of Mabira, Mpanga and Budongo forest reserves with tour operators, NFA’s eco-tourism specialist, Isaac Mweru, said in order to improve eco-tourism, there must be collaboration with different partners.

The tour operators included Great Value Safaris and Hog Safaris and the tour was conducted from October 4 to 7.

“We have decided to manage the forest reserves with non-government organisations and people in the private sector. We need to sign a memorandum,” Mweru said.

He said NFA alone cannot manage all the sites because the majority lack proper facilities like good roads.

“We lack proper facilities but if NGOs and other private sector players come on board, we shall address these problems,” Mweru added.