The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, has reiterated its commitment towards improving infrastructure in Rwenzori Sub-region in a bid to promote tourism, trade and investment.
This commitment was delivered by State Minister for ICT and National Guidance Godfrey Kabyanga Baluku while officiating at the launch of the Rwenzori Tourism, Trade and Investment Summit.
Held under the theme ‘Accelerating sustainable tourism investment in a competitive and globalized market by enhancing destination Kasese with a memorable Rwenzori experience,’ the summit took place at the Rwenzori International Hotel.
Minister Kabyanga said government will prioritize infrastructural development, including road construction, upgrade of the Kasese Airfield and modern railway line rehabilitation to ease movement of tourists into the region.
The Minister also noted that government has reduced Internet costs to enable Ugandans conduct online transactions. He however warned internet users against abusive messages and hate speech targeting government personnel and institutions.
He also called upon tourists to visit Rwenzori to have a glimpse and experience of the beautiful and unique fauna and flora. He further assured guests of peace and the tight security in the country.
Baze Ajer, a delegate from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, urged the Kasese leadership to be accountable for the 20 per cent revenue sharing fund the district receives from Mt Rwenzori National park.
Ajer also called on the district to set up projects that benefit the local communities. He further asked the communities in Rwenzori sub-region to invest in the tourism sector, especially by setting up standard tourism facilities.
Rev James Kim from Korea, the Chairperson for International Youth Fellowship Uganda, said that there is need for Ugandans to voluntarily cooperate and work together in order to develop the tourism sector in the country.
Rev Kim asked leaders to be ambassadors of mind-set change in order for the communities to transition from what he described as “the ancient way of doing things.”
At the same summit, the Kasese LC V Chairperson Eliphaz Muhindi asked locals to utilize the Rwenzori Festival events to boost their business since thousands of both local and international tourists have flocked the District a head of the Tusker lite Mt Rwenzori Marathon slated for September 02, 2023.
The District Chairperson also said there is need for Investors who initially committed themselves to establishing factories in the Kasese Industrial Park to utilize their spots before doors for investment are offered to others in a two years period.
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