Residents of Arua in uganda are beginning to position themselves to tap into the windfall of tourism in the area after the Minister of State for Tourism Serapio Rukundo said the government plans to revitalise tourism in the area.

Tourism in the area known for its cultural sites suffered a setback during the two decade rebel-insurgence in northern Uganda. The district now depends on small-scale enterprises and other social services for revenue, writes Eddy Kirya.

Mr Andama Ferua, the Arua District Chairman, said the political turmoil and lawlessness which prevailed in the district in the 1980 did not spare the tourism industry. He also said. “Arua district was are sadly losing much income from tourism.”

Cultural sites were vandalised, and other potential tourism sites such as mountains were not properly maintained. The tourist areas lack international class amenities such as modern hotels, restaurants, and entertainment. The frail tourism industry has in the past attracted attention of scholars and researchers but mainly for academic purposes.

He said there was need to have to restock Ajai Game Reserve with white Rhinos if the government is to realise the full potential of tourism in the area. He remains optimistic that since peace has returned to the area, the wildlife resource will recover from the ecological imbalance.

By Eddy Kirya
Uganda Hotel News