Uganda Tourism Board Suspends Licenses of 18 Tour Companies

KAMPALA, UGANDA – September 22, 2025 – In a significant move to protect tourists and uphold the integrity of the nation’s tourism industry, the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has announced the immediate suspension of operating licenses for 18 Uganda tour and travel companies. The crackdown follows numerous complaints and investigations that found the firms engaging in a range of fraudulent activities.

The suspended companies are accused of multiple violations, including non-payment to lodging facilities after receiving full payment from clients, misrepresenting Uganda tour packages, and in some severe cases, failing to deliver promised services altogether, leaving tourists stranded.

In a press statement released Monday, UTB CEO Lilly Ajarova emphasized the board’s zero-tolerance policy towards unethical practices that tarnish the reputation of Uganda as a premier tourist destination.

“Our mandate is not only to market ‘The Pearl of Africa’ but also to ensure that the tourists who visit have a safe, reliable, and unforgettable experience,” said Ms. Ajarova. “These suspensions send a clear and unequivocal message: Uganda’s tourism sector has no room for fraudulent operators. We are committed to sanitizing the industry and ensuring that only credible and professional companies are licensed to operate.”

The move has been largely welcomed by industry stakeholders, including the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO), which has long advocated for stricter enforcement of quality standards.

“We fully support the decisive action taken by the UTB,” commented an AUTO spokesperson. “Fraudulent actors not only scam unsuspecting clients but also cause immense reputational damage to the hundreds of legitimate, hardworking operators who are committed to providing world-class service. A clean industry benefits everyone.”

Tourism is a vital sector for Uganda’s economy, being one of the country’s top foreign exchange earners and a significant source of employment.² The industry’s reputation is paramount, especially for high-value experiences like gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, where permits are expensive and booked months in advance.

The UTB has stated that the suspension will remain in effect pending further review. The companies in question will have an opportunity to appeal the decision, but they must provide substantial evidence of compliance and remediation of their past actions.

In the meantime, the UTB is urging all prospective tourists to exercise due diligence before booking with any tour company. The board advises travelers to:

• Verify Licensing: Check the official UTB website for a current list of all accredited and licensed tour operators.
• Seek Reviews: Look for independent reviews and testimonials on reputable travel platforms.
• Request Detailed Itineraries: Ensure all bookings, accommodations, and inclusions are clearly stated in writing before making a payment.

The UTB has also reinforced its commitment to continuous monitoring and spot-checks to ensure all licensed operators adhere to the required legal and ethical standards. This crackdown is seen as the first step in a broader campaign to ensure that Uganda’s tourism sector continues to grow sustainably and ethically.

We at Uganda Car Rental Services strongly support this move as it will not only strengthen the tourism industry but also bring in more clients. For further information, simply contact us now by sending an email, to info@ugandacarrentalservices.com or call us on +256-700135510 to speak with the reservations team.