Tour operators in Uganda are up in arms over new regulations for booking gorilla and chimpanzee permits, claiming they will hurt the tourism industry.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) recently implemented changes to the booking process, which tour operators say are not economically sound. Civy Tumusiime, Chairperson of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators, argues that the regulations will stifle their businesses and limit their contribution to the Ugandan economy.
“These guidelines were not well-considered,” said Tumusiime. “They threaten to shrink our businesses and hinder our ability to operate effectively.”
Beyond the permit concerns, tour operators also raised sanitation issues at national parks, particularly Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls. Poor road conditions, lack of rest stops, and overflowing litter were cited as detracting from the tourist experience. Furthermore, the operators expressed frustration with the unchanged procedures for booking rescheduling, and cancellations.
“The state of the toilets in these parks is unacceptable,” said Tumusiime. “We need the government to improve sanitation, especially on access roads, to maintain a positive image for our tourists.”
The dispute highlights the delicate balance between conservation efforts and economic growth in Uganda’s tourism sector. While the UWA aims to ensure responsible wildlife viewing, tour operators are concerned that the new regulations may discourage tourism and ultimately harm conservation efforts.
