UTB pushes for stronger protection, recognition of Uganda’s tour guides

The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has urged the government and industry players to strengthen protection and professional support for tour guides, describing them as the backbone of the country’s tourism experience.

UTB chief executive officer Juliana Kagwa made the call in a Labour Day message issued on May 1, 2026, praising guides for shaping how visitors experience Uganda.

“Tour guides are the living bridge between Uganda’s extraordinary natural wealth and the world’s curiosity about it. They are naturalists, historians, storytellers and emergency responders often all at once,” Kagwa said.

She noted that many of Uganda’s most memorable tourism moments, from tracking silverbacks in Rushaga to spotting the shoebill at Mabamba or meeting communities in Sipi, are made possible by guides who interpret and bring these experiences to life.

UTB has so far certified more than 600 tour guides, while the Tour Guides Forum Uganda represents over 300 professional guides and drivers. The country’s guiding sector continues to expand, driven by rising visitor interest and ongoing efforts to improve training and standards.

Kagwa said Labour Day offers a chance to recognise a group of workers often overlooked despite their central role in tourism.

“Each year, the world honours the men and women whose labour builds nations. In Uganda, tour guides deserve far greater recognition. This year, we place them at the centre of our appreciation,” she said.

She acknowledged gaps in support, pointing to the COVID-19 pandemic as a stark reminder of how quickly guides can lose their livelihoods when travel halts.

“We must do more to ensure guides receive the recognition and professional support they deserve. The pandemic exposed how vulnerable they are when borders close, and parks fall silent. The industry and government must respond,” Kagwa said.

UTB is stepping up investment in training and certification to raise service standards and strengthen Uganda’s image as a leading tourism destination.

“A well-supported guide strengthens the visitor experience and protects Uganda’s reputation,” she said.

Kagwa paid tribute to guides working across the country, from the misty ranges of Mgahinga to the banks of the Nile and the plains of Kidepo, saying their contribution remains vital to the sector’s growth.

“Uganda Tourism Board sees your work. We honour it and remain committed to standing with you as we build a tourism sector worthy of the country you represent,” she said.

Commenting on the need to support tour guides, Johnnie Kamugisha, chairman of the Annual Tourist Guides Conference, called for increased government support for tour guide training, noting that many practitioners currently meet the costs themselves.

“We therefore call upon the government to support the capacity-building trainings organised by tour guides, as these are vital in strengthening skills and professionalism in the sector,” he said.

Kamugisha described guides as frontline ambassadors who welcome visitors and shape their first impression of the country. He said they perform multiple roles in the field, including hosts, on-the-spot problem solvers, educators and interpreters of Uganda’s heritage.

“Some of us do not look at it as a job. It is a calling. We are on holiday while working, telling stories with emotion. That is why a client will return to Uganda five times because of the guide,” he said.