Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Uganda Tourism Association (UTA)

1. About UTA

Q1: What is the Uganda Tourism Association (UTA)?
A: UTA is the umbrella association that brings together tourism trade associations in Uganda. It serves as the private sector’s voice in the tourism industry, advocating for policy improvements, stakeholder collaboration, and industry growth.

Q2: When was UTA established?
A: UTA was incorporated in 2014 as a company limited by guarantee without share capital.

Q3: What is the mandate of UTA?
A: UTA’s mandate includes uniting tourism trade associations, advocating for sector interests, setting industry standards, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and promoting Uganda as a leading tourism destination.

2. Vision, Mission, and Corporate Purpose

Q4: What is UTA’s vision?
A: To create a professional, competitive, thriving, resilient, inclusive, and sustainable Ugandan tourism sector that significantly contributes to national development goals.

Q5: What is UTA’s mission?
A: To be a cohesive industry voice that supports the growth of the Ugandan tourism sector by fostering collaboration, advocating for sustainable practices, and enhancing the tourism experience.

Q6: What is the purpose of UTA?
A: UTA exists to leverage Uganda’s unique tourism assets to drive sustainable economic growth while preserving the environment and cultural heritage for future generations.

3. Membership

Q7: Who can become a member of UTA?
A: Membership is open to tourism trade associations, private sector organizations, training institutions, and other stakeholders involved in the tourism industry in Uganda.

Q8: What are the categories of membership?
A: UTA has the following membership categories:

• Ordinary Members – National and district-level tourism trade associations
• Affiliate Members – Private tourism institutions and organizations
• Associate Members – Government-owned or regulated organizations related to tourism
• Honorary Members – Individuals or organizations recognized for significant contributions to tourism

Q9: What are the benefits of joining UTA?
A: Members enjoy numerous benefits, including:

• Representation and advocacy for industry interests
• Access to industry data, research, and training
• Networking opportunities and collaboration
• Participation in tourism promotion and marketing initiatives
• Arbitration and conflict resolution services
• Compliance and self-regulation support

Q10: How can an organization apply for membership?
A: Interested organizations must submit a membership application form, provide relevant incorporation documents, and meet eligibility criteria. Applications are reviewed and approved by the UTA Governing Council.

4. Governance and Structure

Q11: How is UTA governed?
A: UTA is governed by a Board of Directors representing different tourism trade associations. The Executive Committee oversees daily operations, while the Secretariat facilitates implementation.

Q12: Who are the key leaders of UTA?
A: UTA’s leadership includes a President, Vice President, Treasurer, General Secretary, and other board members from member associations.

5. Activities and Programs

Q13: What are UTA’s key objectives?
A: UTA aims to:

• Engage stakeholders to improve the business environment
• Promote Uganda as a preferred tourism destination
• Improve service standards and compliance
• Support tourism product development and diversification
• Enhance evidence-based decision-making through research
• Facilitate conflict resolution and arbitration

Q14: What initiatives does UTA undertake to promote tourism?
A: UTA collaborates with the government and private sector to market Uganda, organize trade fairs, conduct training, and advocate for better policies to enhance tourism growth.

Q15: Does UTA provide training or professional development programs?
A: Yes, UTA organizes industry training programs, workshops, and conferences to enhance skills and professional standards in the tourism sector.

6. Industry Regulations and Standards

Q16: What role does UTA play in setting industry standards?
A: UTA works with government agencies to establish and enforce quality and safety standards in the tourism industry, ensuring compliance and professional conduct.

Q17: How does UTA handle disputes within the tourism sector?
A: UTA provides arbitration services to resolve conflicts between tourism stakeholders, ensuring fair and amicable solutions.

7. Strategic Partnerships and Advocacy

Q18: How does UTA collaborate with the government?
A: UTA engages with the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, the Uganda Tourism Board, and other agencies to influence policies and improve the tourism business environment.

Q19: Does UTA work with international organisations?
A: Yes, UTA partners with international tourism bodies, investors, and development organisations to promote Uganda as a competitive tourism destination.