Lawmakers on the Parliamentary Committee of Tourism, Trade and Industry will embark on a two-day oversight visit to Eastern Uganda this week to inspect major government-funded tourism projects, including the Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI), the Source of the Nile Modern Pier, and the Mbale Regional Zoo.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA), the visit scheduled for Thursday, May 15 and Friday, May 16 is aimed at assessing the implementation progress, infrastructure status, and operational impact of these facilities on the tourism sector.
The MPs will begin their tour in Jinja at 10 a.m., where they will receive a guided tour of the Source of the Nile Modern Pier before proceeding to UHTTI for a comprehensive briefing and inspection of the institute’s ongoing development works.
UHTTI Principal Richard Kawere said the visit will provide legislators with a first-hand look at the institute’s upgraded infrastructure and how it supports Uganda’s strategic goals in tourism and hospitality.
“The legislators will assess the current developments at the institute and how they align with the nation’s strategic direction and vision,” Kawere said.
“We will also present a report outlining the funding gaps that need to be addressed to sustain ongoing development and achieve our vision of becoming a Centre of Excellence in hospitality and tourism training.”
Kawere revealed that UHTTI is targeting enrollment of up to 1,500 students by the 2025/2026 academic year, a significant increase made possible by the expanded facilities and acquisition of modern training equipment.
He further noted that the institute has attracted collaborations with leading institutions worldwide, including Kenya’s BOMA Hospitality College, the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute, and Austria’s Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (ITH).
“The institute’s enhanced capacity has enabled us to secure both regional and international partnerships that are critical for training quality and professional standards in the hospitality sector,” he said.
The MPs will conclude their oversight mission with an inspection of the Mbale Regional Zoo on Friday.
Tourism is one of Uganda’s key economic sectors, contributing significantly to GDP, employment, and foreign exchange. Officials hope that improved facilities and skilled human resources will further enhance the country’s competitiveness in the regional tourism market.
