By Frank Kamuntu
The Uganda Wildlife Authority has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental conservation during the recently concluded Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo 2026, where Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi outlined a series of new initiatives aimed at strengthening Uganda’s tourism sector.
The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) 2026 was held from May 21 to May 23, 2026, at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, Kampala. Organized by the Uganda Tourism Board, the 10th-anniversary event was held under the theme “Wanderlust” and attracted more than 1,500 delegates, international travel buyers, tour operators, and tourism stakeholders from across the globe.
Speaking during a panel discussion on “Building a Sustainable and Inclusive Destination in the Wanderlust Era,” Dr. Musinguzi emphasized the need for collective action in addressing climate change and preserving Uganda’s protected areas.
“We are also launching the Friends of UWA movement to involve stakeholders in tackling climate change challenges such as invasive species and waste management, alongside plans to procure a biodigester and strengthen tourism through a carnival regeneration task force,” he said.
Dr. Musinguzi revealed that UWA is prioritizing the rehabilitation and maintenance of roads within protected areas to improve accessibility for tourists and conservation activities. He noted that the authority is working closely with the Ministry of Works and Transport to ensure roads in national parks remain accessible throughout the year.
“All roads within protected areas will be worked on, and UWA is working with the Ministry of Works and Transport to keep them accessible,” he noted.
On community engagement and accountability, Dr. Musinguzi disclosed that the 20 percent tourism revenue-sharing scheme is currently under review to ensure greater transparency and stronger impact on surrounding communities.
He further highlighted the continued success of UWA’s online gorilla permit system, which operates under regulated daily visitor limits to promote transparency and sustainable tourism management.
The discussions at POATE 2026 reflected Uganda’s broader vision of balancing tourism growth with environmental conservation, infrastructure development, and community empowerment as the country strengthens its position as a leading eco-tourism destination in Africa.
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