Tourism unites political parties

Like Uganda government, the leader of opposition Winnie Kiza is advocating for bigger volumes of tourists scaling Mount Rwenzori, touring the National Parks and enjoying nature walks.

"The British Prime Minister Winston Churchill must have had Kasese in mind when he declared Uganda the Pearl of Africa," stressed Kiza. "Our challenge, as a nation, is to increase the volumes of; mountain climbers, park guests and bird watchers."

This was made during the ongoing, Tulambule (Let us tour) domestic tourism promotion, in Queen Elizabeth National Park. In the same tone, a shadow minister of tourism Robert Centenary challenged government to improve working conditions and increase the remunerations for the rangers - if poaching is to be halted.

"If a poacher is paying me five million shillings," argued Centenary. "Why would I decline to turn a blind eye to their illegal activity in the park. Ivory and pangolin scales have been on high demand lately. And the price is tempting"

The minister was challenged to improve the appalling state of the roads to the park.

"Keep it in mind that we are selling a homogenous product," cautioned Centenary. "Tourist have a variety of destination to see the mammals, track gorillas and have nature walks."

Adding that, tourism unlike the so much hyped oil drilling in Hoima is in the country forever. Not taking the criticism lying down, the minister of state for tourism Godfrey Kiwanda said a lot is being done by government.

"With the global terrorism threats, Uganda is one of the safest destinations in the region," said Kiwanda. "Crimes are being busted before they are committed. Besides the Big Five, the menu of attractions now includes; culture, gorilla tracking, white water rafting and bird watching."

Asserting that, the growing volume of students visiting Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC) and national parks is a pointer to a brighter future to a populace interested in the wealth of beauty their country is endowed with.

"And we are destined to be the most sought after tourist destination that Uganda was in the 1960s," said Kiwanda. "We then attracted presidents, authors, royals and prominent musicians."

Besides having tight security since the Rwenzuru Kings palace being besieged early this year, Queen Elizabeth National Park now has more service providers like Simba Safari Lodge, Buffalo and Engiri Hotels for the low budget tourist. Guests are treated to Safari Drives, Boat Rides and guided nature walks.