HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Uganda’s visibility to the outside world is set to grow following the unveiling of the Explore Uganda APP, which is aimed at growing Uganda’s tourism sector.
The APP, which was developed by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), with support from TotalEnergies Uganda, is intended to be a one-stop centre for all information regarding tourism in Uganda, including attractions, accommodation, events calendars, and service providers, among others.
It is expected to turn Uganda into a major tourism destination in Africa, experts say.
Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, the State Minister for Tourism, who presided over the launch, hailed UTB for consolidating Uganda’s tourism message into one simple phrase, “Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa.”
He said in the past, there were many uncoordinated messages, which confused the prospective tourists.
“All efforts should go towards marketing of the new APP. Without evidence of sales, there will be no proof of the success of the APP,” he said.
He urged the Government to increase the budgetary allocation towards the ministry of tourism, adding that its only visibility will ensure the growth of Uganda’s tourism industry.
Lilly Ajarova, the UTB Chief Executive Officer, said the APP was informed by the need to engage with the modern traveler in real-time.
An official joins the entertainers for a dance during the launch of the APP
“It will provide an interactive way to experience what Uganda has to offer, thus bringing Uganda closer to travelers. It lists hotels, resorts and lodges and their categories,” she noted.
Pearl Kakooza, the UTB Board Chairperson said the app will enable tourists to get all the information they need on Uganda as a destination more easily.
“This will in effect increase the country’s visibility and enable the country’s industry players to easily put their products on the market,” she said.
Pauline MacDonald, the TotalEnergies Uganda Director for Biodiversity said they have now turned to innovation to contribute to biodiversity protection and tourism.
“This enables us to support the socioeconomic development of the communities and the country as a whole. Our support to the project is one of the wider conservative obligations because our operations are concentrated in protected areas,” she said.
In 2022, tourism-related revenue and foreign exchange earnings totaled to sh2.7 trillion, or $0.736 billion. This accounted for an important 41.4% of the country’s service exports for the year and a sizable 12.2% of all exports from the country.
