Mr. Taleb implored the political leadership of Uganda to place tourism sector high on the national agenda describing it as the investment for Uganda’s future with activities like Gorilla Trekking taking the world by storm. Politically, it is the most important tool for creation of peace when people travel and rub shoulders, he stated.
The Secretary General noted that travel and tourism play a central role in the socio economic transformation of the country by creating jobs and promoting better understanding. He said globally tourism generates 5.2 trillion dollars a year and is the third largest industry. In 2012,on billion tourists crossed borders to visit other countries ,he said adding that it is now time for Uganda to shine.
Mr. Taleb said Uganda was endowed with tourism potential arguing that what “you do with what you have is what matters” .He said that the UN system in the country will work together to improve and foster tourism growth.
Uganda Vice President Mr. Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi said Uganda is great full for the technical Assistance that UNWTO and UNDP is currently giving Uganda in shaping our tourism policy improving of the tourism master plan and the development of inclusive Markets in Tourism sector Project”.
He also said tourism is one of the sectors driving the agenda of creating jobs, and developing a productive and competitive labor force. Car Rental in Uganda being one of those areas.
The Ugandan minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Dr. Maria Mutagamba said government is working with UNWTO to Brand – the Pearl of Africa by harnessing her natural and cultural endowments. She hailed the UNWTO for the technical help to develop the Tourism Policy and Master plan 2003 which has expired in 2013 and Uganda is embarking on a new ten year plan.
Mr. Taleb also later met the President at State House Entebbe and other development partners during a breakfast business meeting.
Gorilla Tours Uganda 