Demo Riley appointed president of National Tourism Events Organisers Federation

Uganda’s tourism and events industry has taken a major step toward strengthening collaboration and advocacy following the appointment of Sebulime Peter aka Demo Riley as President of the National Tourism Events Organisers Federation (NTEOF).

The federation serves as the umbrella body representing more than 40 of Uganda’s leading tourism, cultural, and entertainment event organisers. It was established with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and the Uganda Tourism Board to promote coordination, advocacy, collaboration, and sustainable growth within the tourism events sector.

NTEOF’s leadership brings together some of the industry's most influential figures. Riley will serve as President, while Aly Alibhai, CEO of Talent Africa Group, takes on the role of Vice President. Renowned tourism entrepreneur Amos Wekesa will serve as Chairman.

Speaking about the federation's vision, Demo Riley emphasised the importance of creating a united voice for tourism event organisers across the country.

“NTEOF was formed to unite tourism event organizers, strengthen advocacy efforts, and create a platform through which the sector can collectively engage government, development partners, and private sector stakeholders,” he said.

Although the federation was formally established only five months ago, it has already made significant strides in engaging government institutions and tourism stakeholders. One of its first major public appearances was during the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE), where it showcased the growing contribution of tourism events to Uganda’s economy.

According to data from the Uganda Tourism Research Development Centre, events organized by NTEOF members contribute more than sh70b annually through tourism, hospitality, transport, entertainment, and related sectors.

Riley, however, highlighted several challenges facing event organizers, particularly the high cost of security deployment.

“Events drive tourism arrivals, accommodation bookings, youth employment, SME growth, creative industry development, and national branding,” he explained.

“Yet organizers continue to shoulder enormous operational costs, especially security deployment, despite already contributing significant tax revenues.”

He noted that proper security support is critical not only for the success of events but also for maintaining Uganda’s reputation as a safe and attractive tourism destination.

As preparations for the federation’s official launch gather momentum, NTEOF is calling upon policymakers, investors, tourism stakeholders, and development partners to recognize tourism events as a strategic economic sector worthy of greater support and investment.

With a growing membership, strong leadership, and a clear vision for the future, NTEOF is positioning itself as a powerful voice that will help shape policies, unlock opportunities, and drive the continued growth of Uganda’s tourism and events industry.