Sustainable tourism: Preserving Uganda's natural wealth
Apr 17, 2024
Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Tom Butime, expressed elation over the promising trajectory of the tourism industry, heralding a future where domestic and international tourist numbers are harmonized.
Tooro traditional dance performed to entertain important guest and when making merry. (Photos by Titus Kakembo)
Titus Kakembo
Journalist @New Vision
_________________ Domestic tourists immerse themselves in a water spring at Mabere Ga Nyina Mwiru believed to have been used by the Bachwezi
Anticipation is mounting for the upcoming Pearl Of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE), slated to be the grandest May 23 - May 25, 2024, at Speke Resort Munyonyo under the banner of Sustainable Tourism, a theme reverberating with the global challenges of climate change.
"We cannot afford to squander the rich bounty that Mother Nature has bestowed upon Destination Uganda. The shifting rainfall patterns, escalating droughts, landslides, locust invasions, and burgeoning population are stark reminders of how our actions reverberate across the habitats we share with wildlife," emphasized Lilly Ajarova, CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board, during a gathering with sponsors of POATE at the Four Stars by Sheraton.
Through dynamic Business-to-Business workshops, exhibitors will not merely showcase their services and properties, but also spotlight their sustainable practices in waste management, wildlife-human conflict resolution, and innovative destination marketing strategies.
"As we approach the eighth iteration of POATE, initiatives such as indigenous tree planting are gaining traction, underscoring participants' curiosity regarding government policies concerning wildlife conservation. Ceasing deforestation and curtailing the export of raw materials represent pivotal steps forward, while the burgeoning populations of gorillas, elephants, and avian species stand as a testament to our conservation successes," Ajarova summarized.
Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Tom Butime, expressed elation over the promising trajectory of the tourism industry, heralding a future where domestic and international tourist numbers are harmonized.
"The act of traversing diverse landscapes and experiencing their splendour firsthand not only enriches travellers but also nurtures a culture of conservation. As hosts become more intimately acquainted with our natural wonders, they are inspired to cherish and safeguard our precious wildlife, forests, primates, avifauna, and reptiles," remarked Butime.
Within the tourism industry, there's palpable excitement surrounding POATE, hailed as a prime opportunity to forge new partnerships, connect with service providers, and showcase the unparalleled treasures Uganda has to offer.
Attendee panel closed
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