Uganda’s tourism sector is thriving, largely due to the efforts of remarkable women who have dedicated their careers to developing and shaping the industry. These women have pioneered luxury lodges, championed tour operations, and influenced policy and advocacy at the highest levels, leaving an indelible mark on Uganda’s tourism landscape. Here’s a look at some of the most influential women driving the industry forward.
Civy Tumusime – The Powerhouse Behind Acacia Safaris
Civy Tumusime is a name synonymous with resilience and success in Uganda’s tourism industry. As the Board Chair of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) and (AUTO representative at the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), she’s played a vital role in ensuring the private sector’s voice is heard, in addition to participation in formulation of tourism tourism policies that have shaped Uganda’s tourism sector. Civy took over Acacia Safaris, a family business, and transformed it into a powerhouse, expanding its operations across the country. She owns and manages several renowned properties, including Pakuba Safari Lodge, Mpogo Safari Lodge in Lake Mburo, and Four Gorillas Lodge in Bwindi. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, she is a key advocate for investment, policy formulation, and the overall growth of Uganda’s tourism sector.
Lydia Nandutu – The Visionary Behind Nkuringo Safaris
Starting with a humble backpackers’ camp, Lydia Nandutu has transformed Nkuringo Safaris into one of Uganda’s most iconic luxury lodges. Now a five-star establishment, Nkuringo Lodge stands as a testament to her determination and entrepreneurial spirit. As a tour operator and lodge owner, she continues to expand her footprint, currently developing another high-end lodge in Kibale National Park. Lydia is a formidable force in the industry, a woman of valor who has built her empire from scratch, setting a benchmark for excellence in Uganda’s hospitality and tourism sector.
Ethel Birungi – The Pioneer of Nature Lodges
With over 24 years in the tourism industry, Ethel Birungi is one of Uganda’s most seasoned tour operators. As the owner of a chain of “Nature Lodges,” she has played a pivotal role in promoting eco-tourism and sustainable travel. Her extensive experience in marketing Uganda on the global stage has helped position the country as a top-tier destination. Having served on multiple boards, including AUTO, she has been instrumental in championing the interests of tour operators and ensuring that sustainability remains a priority in Uganda’s tourism growth.
Babra Adoso – Uganda’s MICE Champion
As a former Chairperson of AUTO, Babra Adoso has been at the forefront of tourism advocacy in Uganda. She is one of the country’s few accredited specialists in Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), a growing sector in Uganda’s tourism industry. Through her relentless efforts, she has played a crucial role in developing Uganda’s MICE sector, establishing the country as a prime destination for business tourism. Babra is an inspiration to many, continuously championing tourism development and uplifting women in the industry.
Lilly Ajarova – The Marketing Guru of Uganda Tourism Board (UTB)
Lilly Ajarova made history as the first female CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB). In this role, she has transformed the country’s tourism marketing strategies, significantly increasing Uganda’s visibility on the international stage and attracting more visitors to the Pearl of Africa. For over 8 years, from 1996 until 2005, Ms Ajarova worked at the Uganda Wildlife Authority, as the Tourism Development and Marketing Manager and served as the Executive Director of the Chimpanzee Trust, demonstrating her commitment to conservation. Under her stewardship, Uganda secured her brand destination name”Explore Uganda The pearl of Africa” The Explore Uganda App, not forgetting the newly drafted National Marketing strategy. UTB has strengthened destination marketing and driven policy changes to enhance Uganda’s tourism sector.
Doreen Tumusiime – The Administrative Head of Tourism in Uganda
As the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Tourism, Tumusiime is the driving force behind Uganda’s tourism agenda. She oversees all tourism agencies, ensuring that their efforts align with the country’s strategic vision. Currently leading the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE), she has positioned Uganda’s tourism sector as a crucial economic driver. Known for her diplomatic approach, she remains accessible and attentive to industry stakeholders, fostering growth and inclusivity within Uganda’s tourism sector.
Eugene Nsubuga Windt – The Adventurer Behind Swan Air
Eugene Nsubuga Windt is a key figure in Uganda’s tourism sector, known for her impactful leadership and entrepreneurial ventures. She has held several prominent positions, including Chairperson of the Uganda Tourism Association and a board member of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, where she has advocated for sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.
In addition to her leadership roles, Eugene is the founder of Mukono Adventure Park, an eco-tourism initiative that combines conservation efforts with community development.
The park has become a hub for sustainable tourism, offering visitors a chance to explore Uganda’s natural beauty while supporting local communities through employment and eco-friendly tourism practices. This establishment has had a significant impact on the region, boosting local economies and encouraging environmental preservation.
Eugene is also involved with Swan Air, a local airline that facilitates access to Uganda’s remote tourist destinations, including national parks and wildlife reserves. Swan Air plays a crucial role in enhancing eco-tourism by providing efficient transport services, making Uganda’s natural attractions more accessible to international tourists. Through her ventures, Eugene has made substantial contributions to Uganda’s tourism sector, promoting sustainable practices and empowering local communities
Pearl Honoroue Kakooza – A Trailblazer in Tour Operations
Pearl Honoroue Kakooza has contributing to employment and becoming a key figure in Uganda’s tourism success story.
Pearl Hoareau Kakooza is a distinguished Ugandan tourism professional, currently serving as the Chairperson of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB). She’s played a vital role in Uganda’s tour operations sector through her work with the Uganda Travel Agents Association (TUGATA).She’s served at the board of Uganda Tourism Association (UTA)where she’s been instrumental in shaping industry policies. She’s owned one of the country’s first tour companies UTB 2004 and also holds the position of Managing Director at Uganda Travel Bureau 2004 Limited, a company specializing in travel and tour services.
Through these multifaceted efforts, Pearl Hoareau Kakooza has significantly influenced Uganda’s tourism landscape, fostering both cultural preservation and economic development
Priscila Butagira – The Voice of Tourism at State House
As Uganda’s leading tourism advocate at State House, Priscila Butagira ensures that tourism remains a priority on the president’s agenda.
Her efforts have been pivotal in the promotion of Uganda as a top tourist destination, especially with her involvement in national campaigns that emphasize wildlife conservation and eco-tourism. By working alongside government ministries, stakeholders, and international partners, Butagira leads national and international marketing campaigns and collaborates closely with the government to position Uganda as a premier travel destination. A talented marketer, she represents Uganda at global travel expos, passionately promoting the country’s tourism potential. contributed to improving Uganda’s global image, which in turn boosts tourism-related revenues and investments.
Through her strategic communication, Priscilla Butagira continues to have a significant impact on Uganda’s tourism development and its recognition on the global stage
Yogi Birigwa – The Enthusiast Leading UTA
Yogi Birigwa is a prominent figure in Uganda’s tourism sector, known for her extensive contributions to the industry. She has held key positions in various organizations, notably serving as the Chairperson of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB). In this role, she worked to promote Uganda as a top travel destination, focusing on enhancing the country’s tourism infrastructure and marketing its rich cultural and natural heritage globally. She currently serves as the president of the Uganda Tourism Association.
Apart from her role in the public sector, Yogi Birigwa is an accomplished businesswoman and owner of several tourism-related businesses. These include hotels, tour operators, and other services that cater to the growing demand for high-quality travel experiences in Uganda. Her businesses have played a crucial role in shaping the country’s hospitality landscape, providing employment and fostering local communities’ involvement in tourism.
Birigwa’s impact extends beyond business. She has been a strong advocate for sustainable tourism, emphasizing the need to protect Uganda’s natural resources while creating economic opportunities for local populations. Her leadership and entrepreneurial spirit have not only elevated Uganda’s standing in the global tourism market but also empowered women and marginalized groups within the sector, making her a key player in shaping Uganda’s tourism future
Jean Byamugisha – The Advocate for Uganda’s Hoteliers
Jean Byamugisha, CEO of the Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA), is the primary voice for hoteliers in Uganda..
Through her role, she has been pivotal in shaping the development of Uganda’s hotel and tourism sectors, working to improve policies, promote local hospitality businesses, and elevate Uganda as a global tourist destination.
Byamugisha has been instrumental in advocating for a more favorable business environment for hotel owners, ensuring that their voices are heard in national tourism policy discussions. Under her leadership, UHOA has pushed for greater investment in the hospitality sector and improved infrastructure, which are essential for attracting both regional and international visitors to Uganda.
Her work also extends to promoting sustainable tourism practices, focusing on how hotels and tourism services can positively impact local communities. Byamugisha’s advocacy for gender equality within the hospitality industry has further cemented her legacy, empowering women and encouraging more participation in the sector.
Her contributions have strengthened Uganda’s tourism industry, helped create employment opportunities, and contributed to the country’s economic growth, making her a key figure in shaping the future of Ugandan tourism
Susan Muhwezi – The hotelier of hoteliers
Susan Muhwezi is a prominent figure in Uganda’s hospitality industry, currently serving as the president of the Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA). With her extensive experience and leadership, she has been instrumental in shaping the country’s hotel sector, advocating for the growth and sustainability of the tourism industry. Under her leadership, UHOA has focused on promoting standards, improving service quality, and supporting the professional development of hotel owners and operators in Uganda.
In addition to her role at UHOA, Susan is a successful businesswoman, owning and managing several hotels, which contribute to the local economy and create job opportunities for many. Her commitment to the sector extends beyond business ownership; she actively participates in initiatives aimed at promoting Uganda as a leading tourism destination. Susan’s efforts have earned her recognition as a trailblazer, paving the way for other women in the hospitality and tourism sectors
Joan Kamya and Marinka Sanc George are the founders and owners of Pearl of Africa Tours & Travel, one of Uganda’s oldest and most respected tour companies. Established over 30 years ago, the company has not only contributed significantly to the country’s tourism sector but has also nurtured and employed countless individuals, empowering them through training and creating job opportunities. Both women are known for their astute business acumen, strong principles, and meticulous attention to detail, which have earned them a solid reputation in the industry. Their leadership has played a crucial role in shaping Uganda’s tourism landscape, attracting international tourists and showcasing the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Through their unwavering commitment to excellence, Kamya and Sanc George have made a lasting impact on Uganda’s tourism, inspiring future generations of women entrepreneurs and fostering a thriving travel industry
Christine Mwinike – The Marketer Behind Crystal Safaris.
Christine Mwinike is a seasoned tour operator and the force behind Crystal Safaris.
Mwinike is the visionary behind Crystal Safaris, a leading travel and tour company in Uganda and its chain of lodges. Crystal Safaris offers bespoke travel experiences, specializing in safaris, cultural tours, and wildlife exploration. Known for her approachable personality and marketing prowess, she has represented Uganda at global travel shows and secured valuable partnerships for the country’s tourism sector.
Through her work, Christine has significantly impacted Uganda’s tourism sector by promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage, wildlife, and scenic landscapes to a global audience. Her efforts have not only enhanced the country’s image as a premier tourist destination but have also contributed to local communities’ economic growth by supporting sustainable tourism practices. She is a prominent advocate for eco-tourism and wildlife conservation, empowering local people and raising awareness about Uganda’s unique biodiversity, which has, in turn, helped grow the tourism sector and foster global appreciation for Uganda.
These remarkable women each play a unique role in shaping Uganda’s tourism landscape. From tour operators and hoteliers to policymakers and conservationists, they continue to break barriers, elevate the industry, and inspire the next generation of female tourism leaders. Their contributions not only enhance Uganda’s economy but also solidify the country’s reputation as a premier travel destination in Africa.
This article is written in collaboration with Dennis Ntege, the General Secretary of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO).
