Veteran journalist and tourism entrepreneur, Muhereza Kyamutetera is the new chief executive officer of Uganda Tourism Association (UTA). His tenure begins on October 1, 2024.
In the announcement, UTA said Kyamutetera “brings a demonstrated skill set in strategy development and execution, business development, marketing and communications, stakeholder relations management and, above all, passion and knowledge about Uganda’s tourism industry.”
These skills have been gained from over 20 years of experience working with and for over 100 domestic, regional and international public, private and not-for-profit brands across several sectors such as tourism, financial services, energy, education, aviation, ICT, manufacturing, consumer goods, fashion and healthcare.
In a stament UTA said Kyamutetera is expected to drive the body’s purpose and vision⏤ building a professional, competitive, thriving and inclusive tourism sector for our member associations, thereby sustainably contributing to Uganda’s national development agenda.
Kyamutetera is the founder of CEO East Africa Magazine which focuses on business news in the region and continent.
Cewagnesh Biriggwa (Yogi), the president of UTA, said they are thrilled to have Kyamutetera onboard at this critical time when the sector is still reeling from the post-COVID-19 effects.
“We are excited about the fresh perspectives and diverse skill sets he brings to UTA and the industry, where he is no stranger,” she said.
On his part, Kyamutetera said he is excited to infuse his professional experience and his passionate love for Destination Uganda.
“I look forward to being an essential bridge between the private sector, the government, and our development partners as we jointly work to increase the volume and value of tourism to Uganda and ultimately increase tourism enterprise revenues and household incomes,” he said.
Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) is the umbrella organisation that brings together all tourism trade associations in Uganda. It is the private sector’s voice in the tourism industry and includes 9 members and 2 affiliates.
The members include; The Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO), Uganda Safari Guides Association (USAGA), Uganda Hotel Owners’ Association (UHOA), The Uganda Association of Travel Agents (TUGATA), Uganda Community Tourism Association (UCOTA), The Association of Ugandan Women in Tourism Trade (AUWOTT), The National Arts and Cultural Crafts Association (NACCAU), The Hotel General Managers Association of Uganda (HOGMAU) and The Uganda Association of Conference and Incentive Industry (UACII).
The affiliated members of the Uganda Tourism Association include; Buganda Heritage and Tourism Board (BHTB) and Kasese Tourism Investors Forum (KTIF).
The 11 associations collectively represent tour operators, travel agents, accommodation facilities, tour guides, community-based organisations, cultural organisations, events and conference organisers, as well as arts and crafts, representing more than 2000 enterprises in the tourism sector.
Uganda Tourism Association (UTA) exists to provide a forum where private sector member associations can advocate for policies and practices that promote sustainable tourism development in Uganda.
