The FTT-Uganda initiative marks a significant step forward in the country's commitment to ethical tourism and responsible travel, coming at a point when market research shows that traveler demand for dedication to sustainability is at an all-time high, and with greater confidence in claims that are independently verified through certification.
With its rich natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant communities, Uganda is a prime destination for travelers seeking these responsible and authentic experiences. The availability of FTT Certification will enable them to easily identify accommodation, attractions, activities, and other travel experiences that align with their values of sustainability and ethical tourism. It offers an essential and complementary market differentiation tool to support Uganda's pursuit of enhancing its reputation as a leading sustainable tourism destination.
CEO of the Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA), Ms Jean Byamugisha, expressed UHOA's support for the initiative, saying that it, "reflects our dedication to fostering sustainable tourism practices that benefit both our people and the planet. As UHOA we want to ensure that all our guests make a lasting impact during the course of their travels. Sustainability of the environment and human resources is key in ensuring the longevity of the tourism industry in Uganda. Crucially, we encourage all hotels to enroll for this certification to access the benefits of being part of this exclusive and responsible club. We invite travelers from around the world to explore Uganda's beauty responsibly and support our certified tourism businesses."
The FTT-Uganda certification scheme provides guidance and independent verification of a tourism business' commitment to fair wages and working conditions, fair purchasing and operations, equitable distribution of benefits, and respect for human rights, culture, and the environment. Its development commenced with local stakeholder consultations from September 2023, leading to the training of in-country business support organisations (e.g., industry associations) in February 2024.
The next step is to support individual tourism products to start their certification journeys, working towards achieving either the entry level of "FTT-Engaged" or the more advanced "FTT-Certified" accolade. From March 2024, eligible tourism businesses are invited to register their interest to be among the first 50 in Uganda to be supported in pioneering Fair Trade Tourism in the destination, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability, and ultimately accessing new market opportunities.
Full details of benefits, eligibility, process, and costs may be accessed in the project's e-brochure, and eligible tourism businesses may register by clicking "login" on the top menu on the FTT website.
View / download the FTT-Uganda E-brochure
For more information about Fair Trade Tourism Certification in Uganda, contact:
Lisa Scriven, General Manager
Fair Trade Tourism
E: info(at)fairtradetourism.org
W: www.fairtradetourism.org
Background
This opportunity was made possible by Enabel, the development agency of the Kingdom of Belgium, through its 5-year thematic portfolio on Social Protection and Decent Work, jointly executed by Uganda's Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD).
Project management and implementation were provided by Horwath HTL in partnership with Fair Trade Tourism.