Pearl Hoareau Kakooza has been appointed as the chairperson of the fifth Uganda Tourism Board of Directors for the next three years.
Kakooza was appointed by the Tourism Minister Col(Rtd) Tom Butime to replace Daudi Migereko whose term expired .
Also appointed to the tourism board are Oliver Lumonye, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority deputy director general, Ssali Sandra Kebirungi(Ministry of Finance), Vicent Operimo( National Planning Authority), Stephen Masaba(Uganda Wildlife Authority),Vivian Lyazi representing the Ministry of Tourism, Margaret Ojara(NACCAU), Tonny Mulinde( tour operators), Rashid Kiyimba( hoteliers), Ronald Kawamara Kazooba and Lily Ajarova as an ex-officio but also secretary to the board.
The board was inaugurated by the Tourism Minister Col(Rtd) Tom Butime at Mestil Hotel on Thursday.
He applauded the previous board for the heights it has enabled Uganda’s tourism reach during their tenure.
“I want to thank the outgoing members for their invaluable contribution to the development of tourism in Uganda. You have worked hard in elevating Uganda’s profile as a tourist destination. Under your stewardship, Uganda acquired the ne destination brand,” Butime said.
Butime urged the new board to build on the legacy left behind by the previous board.
“We hope you will build on legacy of processors and lead us to even greater heights. As you begin work, remember that our ultimate goal remains the same, to position Uganda as world’s biggest tourist destination,” Butime said.
The new board chairperson, Pearl Kakooza applauded the minister for the appointment but also the previous board for the achievements made during their term of office.
“ We are coming in when a red carpet has been rolled out for us because Uganda hosted the NAM and G77 plus China summits. We must build on these to promote our country as a visitor destination,” Kakooza said.
The UTB CEO, Lily Ajarova urged the new board to remain steadfast in promotion of sustainable tourism but also ensuring Uganda maintains a top position as a visitor destination.
“Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to promoting sustainable tourism practices , preserving our natural and cultural heritage and fostering collaboration and inclusivity in the tourism sector. We must work tirelessly to ensure Uganda remains a destination of choice for travelers who are seeking authenticity experiences, breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality,” Ajarova said.
“I am confident we will overcome challenges, seize opportunities and realise the full potential of Uganda’s tourism sector. Together we will chat the cause towards a future where tourism will not only contribute to the economic growth of the country but will also integrate the lives of al Ugandans.”
