Uganda's tourism operators have called on the government to overhaul visa procedures, improve infrastructure and simplify the tax system to help the country attract more international visitors. The Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) warned that current barriers could undermine efforts to promote sustainable tourism and meet growing international expectations. Matilda Iremera, AUTO's chief executive officer, said tourists were choosing neighbouring countries where entry procedures were easier, urging the government to consider visas on arrival to improve Uganda's competitiveness.
Beyond visa access, operators highlighted multiple constraints limiting their businesses. Poor roads leading to protected areas, unreliable internet and telephone connectivity at some accommodation facilities, and expensive international marketing were all cited as problems affecting visitor experiences. Iremera called on the government to support investment in hospitality facilities, provide affordable long-term financing to tourism businesses and help operators attend international travel exhibitions where they connect with foreign clients.
James Mwere, an AUTO board member, stressed that better infrastructure and investment in staff training were essential for helping tourism businesses adopt sustainable practices. He called for improved transport links to tourism destinations, including domestic air connections to areas such as Kisoro and Kidepo. Mwere emphasised the need to protect Uganda's natural attractions while ensuring communities around tourism sites benefit from the industry.
Daniel Irunga, a senior branding officer at the Uganda Tourism Board, acknowledged the sector faced more than 20 taxes and said the government had been directed to examine ways of consolidating multiple taxes. He warned that businesses could lose access to some markets if they failed to meet international sustainability requirements. The concerns emerge ahead of the second AUTO Tourism Gala, scheduled for November 27 in Kampala.