The Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) held its elective Annual General Meeting on January 16, 2025, at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Kampala. Members voted for a new leadership team during the meeting to guide the association through its next development phase. This transition occurs at a critical time when Uganda’s tourism industry has aggressively revised its targets to enhance its competitiveness amid growing regional competition from Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania.
The new board assumes office as the tourism private sector is still recovering from the post-COVID-19 effects, which disrupted global travel and significantly affected Uganda’s tourism revenues. The industry continues to face challenges such as marketing, infrastructure improvements, policy advocacy, and sustainability concerns, all of which will require strategic leadership and strong collaboration between the private and public sectors.
As AUTO celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, the association remains a key player in shaping Uganda’s tourism landscape. The newly elected board is expected to build upon the strong foundation laid by its predecessors and work towards achieving even greater milestones.
A Board of Seasoned Tourism Leaders
The newly elected Board of the Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) is composed of some of Uganda’s most distinguished tourism entrepreneurs and trailblazers. With a combined experience of over 120 years in the tourism industry, the Board brings together a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and innovation.
From experienced tour operators and lodge owners to specialists in adventure tourism, travel management, and sector advocacy, the Board members have been instrumental in shaping Uganda’s tourism landscape. Their extensive expertise encompasses areas such as sustainable tourism, destination marketing, conservation initiatives, and policy engagement with key stakeholders.
The newly elected AUTO Board comprises diverse professionals with extensive experience in Uganda’s tourism sector. Their leadership is expected to drive growth, enhance policy engagement, and increase Uganda’s presence in the global tourism market.
Ms. Civy R.N. Tumusiime- Chairperson
Ms. Tumusiime has been re-elected as Chairperson of AUTO, a position she has held since 2020. She is the Managing Director of Acacia Safaris and the proprietor of Pakuba and Mpogo Lodges in Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo National Parks, respectively. With over 14 years of experience in the tourism industry, she is known for her advocacy in the private sector and her commitment to strengthening Uganda’s tourism sector.
During her first term, Ms. Tumusiime led AUTO to significant growth. Under her leadership, AUTO’s membership increased by 78%, from 207 to 255 registered tour operators. Additionally, the association saw a remarkable improvement in its financial standing, with total income rising from UGX 1.49 billion in 2022 to UGX 3.12 billion in 2023— 2024 is still under audit.
She played a key role in securing financial relief and tax incentives for tour operators during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that businesses could sustain their operations despite economic challenges. During her tenure, AUTO also enhanced Uganda’s international tourism presence, securing funding for local tour operators to participate in major global exhibitions such as ITB Berlin, World Travel Market Africa, and the Magical Kenya Travel Expo.
Beyond advocacy, Ms. Tumusiime strengthened partnerships with financial institutions, enabling small and medium-sized tour operators to access funding for business expansion. She also prioritised capacity building, overseeing training programs that equipped tour operators with skills in customer service, digital marketing, financial literacy, and sustainable tourism practices.
Her re-election ensures continuity in AUTO’s leadership and signals confidence in her ability to drive further growth, strengthen policy advocacy, and enhance Uganda’s global tourism competitiveness.
Mr. Erau Jonathan- Vice Chairperson
Mr. Erau Jonathan brings a dynamic blend of entrepreneurial spirit, digital innovation, and practical tourism experience to the AUTO Board. As the Managing Director and founder of Adventure in the Wild Safaris Ltd, he has transformed his company into one of Uganda’s most sought-after safari operators.
With a background in Information Technology from Makerere University, Mr. Erau initially worked in web development and online marketing for Jewel Safaris Ltd before establishing his own company in 2018. Under his leadership, Adventure in the Wild Safaris has grown into a well-respected tour operator with a fleet of vehicles and a robust presence in Uganda’s luxury safari market.
Beyond tourism, Mr. Erau has been actively involved in national politics, having contested for Member of Parliament – Dakabela County in 2021. His political experience gives him a deep understanding of policy-making processes, which will be instrumental in advocating for favourable tourism policies at the national level.
Mr. Dennis Ntege- Secretary General
A veteran in Uganda’s adventure tourism sector, Mr. Dennis Ntege is the proprietor of Raft Uganda Adventure, the first-ever 100% Ugandan-owned rafting company. His career in the industry spans over two decades, making him one of Uganda’s foremost experts in nature-based tourism, outdoor adventure, and sustainable travel experiences.
His expertise extends beyond rafting. He has been actively involved in training and mentoring young Ugandan tour guides and adventure tourism operators. Having served as General Secretary of AUTO from 2013 to 2016, Mr. Ntege has a proven track record of effective leadership, government engagement, and membership coordination.
He is expected to leverage his networks and extensive experience to promote Uganda as a leading destination for adventure tourism in Africa.
Ms. Eugene Windt- Treasurer
A highly experienced tourism executive, Ms. Eugene Windt is the CEO of Swanair Travels and Safaris, one of Uganda’s longest-running travel management companies. With over 30 years of experience in senior leadership roles, she has been instrumental in shaping Uganda’s travel and hospitality sector.
Ms. Windt’s leadership experience includes corporate travel, tour operations, aviation partnerships, and tourism advocacy. She has held various influential roles, including Vice Chairperson of the Uganda Tourist Association (UTA), Treasurer of the Uganda Tourist Board, and Member of the French Chamber of Commerce in Uganda.
Her financial acumen and strategic management expertise make her a vital asset to AUTO’s new Board. As Treasurer, she will ensure financial transparency, drive fundraising efforts, and develop sustainable revenue models for the association. She also brings a global perspective on travel trends, which will be crucial in positioning AUTO for international growth and investment.
Ms. Lydia Eva Mpanga- Board Member
Commonly referred to as Mama Mpanga within Uganda’s tourism circles, Ms. Mpanga is the CEO and founder of Nkuringo Walking Safaris, an award-winning travel company specializing in bespoke, sustainable, and adventure-driven tourism experiences.
With a strong emphasis on eco-tourism and responsible travel, her company has been recognized internationally. In 2022, Nkuringo Safari Lodges won Uganda’s Leading Safari Lodge award at the World Travel Awards.
She is passionate about conservation, community-based tourism, and promoting off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Her role on the AUTO Board is expected to bring a strong voice for sustainability, product innovation, and community-driven tourism initiatives.
Mr. Brian Ahereza– Board Member
A leading name in luxury and experiential tourism, Mr. Ahereza is the founder and CEO of GoExplore Safaris. His company has been at the forefront of promoting high-end bush escapades and wildlife conservation experiences in Uganda.
Beyond traditional tourism, Mr. Ahereza has also played a key role in documentary filmmaking, helping to showcase Uganda’s natural beauty to international audiences. He was actively involved in the production of “The Best Job Ever,” a documentary highlighting Uganda’s wilderness and tourism potential during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Mr. James Mwere- Board Member
A tourism professional with over 15 years of experience, Mr. Mwere is the Founder and CEO of MJ Safaris Uganda. He is also the Senior Tourism Officer at the Ministry of Tourism and Heritage for the Busoga Kingdom and the chairman of the Tour Guides Forum Uganda (TGFU).
He has been instrumental in promoting domestic tourism, tour guide training, and developing heritage tourism. His role on the AUTO Board is expected to strengthen domestic tourism initiatives, improve tour guide standards, and advocate for preserving Uganda’s cultural heritage.
Achievements of the Outgoing Board (2020–2024)
As the new board assumes office, it inherits a strong foundation laid by the outgoing leadership under Chairperson Civy Tumusiime. The previous board achieved significant milestones that strengthened AUTO’s role in shaping Uganda’s tourism sector.
AUTO’s membership grew by 78% during its tenure, while the association’s financial reserves expanded significantly. The board successfully lobbied for policy reforms, tax incentives, and financial support for tour operators.
AUTO also played a key role in enhancing Uganda’s global tourism visibility, supporting 55 tour companies in participating in international expos such as ITB Berlin, World Travel Market Africa, and the Magical Kenya Travel Expo.
In addition to industry advocacy, the outgoing board prioritized capacity building, conducting over 10 training programs on customer service, taxation compliance, and sustainable tourism.
Furthermore, the outgoing leadership strengthened regional tourism partnerships, led corporate social responsibility initiatives, and took a firm stance against fraud in the sale of gorilla permits.
The Road Ahead for the New Board
As the new board takes office, it faces critical challenges and opportunities. Uganda’s tourism sector must compete with regional markets, improve infrastructure, enhance digital marketing, and strengthen eco-tourism initiatives. The sector also needs continued government support, better tax incentives, and increased investment in destination marketing.
With a blend of experienced and fresh leadership, AUTO is well-positioned to accelerate Uganda’s tourism growth, enhance stakeholder collaboration, and strengthen Uganda’s brand as a premier travel destination. The next few years will be crucial in defining Uganda’s competitiveness in the global tourism industry, and all eyes are on the new AUTO board to deliver impactful leadership and drive the sector forward.