UWA imports executive buses, boats to boost tourism

PIC:  Executive Director UWA, Andrew Seguya(right) presents before the committee on Trade on April 03 2017 as (l-r) John Makombo Director Conservation UWA and Charles Tumwesigye Chief Conservation Area Manager look on. Photo by Miriam Namutebi

Uganda Wildlife Authority has imported five executive buses and 3 boats to relax the problem of transport inside National Parks as the country moves to spur the domestic tourism niche that has not been fully exploited.

The Authority boss Andrew Seguya told MPs on Trade yesterday the vehicles and the boats will be launched as soon as they are assembled. They will be located in the major National Park.

"One major problem hindering local tourism is lack of transport in National Parks. Unfortunately, even the private sector has not ventured into it. Government has to take lead and show the private sector that it's a profitable venture," Seguya said.

"Transport is a very big problem in National Parks. For example from the main road to Katwe and Lake Mburo gates, it is a very long distance and they are no taxis. This discourages people without vehicles from visiting such areas," he added.

He said although the demand is still high and the vehicles may not be enough,  they will at least relieve the situation as government plans to import more cars and the private sector comes on board.

For purposes of promoting local tourism in the city, the Authority partnered with Kampala Capital City Authority to beautify the City.

Mulago round about to Kira Road Police station will soon be named as a wildlife street and beautified with wildlife sculptures of wildlife.

Seguya informed the legislators that unlike in the past where tourists would carry cash into Parks, the Authority plans to introduce electronic revenue collection applications like the point of sale machines for the Visa credit and debit cards and use of mobile money at all the gates.

It will also introduce online booking and paying systems so that clients wishing to visit protected areas do not have to come to UWA offices to make bookings and payments.

"In order to increase visitor satisfaction while in the protected areas, we are also introducing new products such as Canopy walks, new trails in the Rwenzori and many others. Ugandans should also come and enjoy their country," he said.

Uganda currently has 10 National Parks, 12 Wildlife Reserves, 13 wildlife Sanctuaries and 5 Community Wildlife  areas.