In a sweeping move that has sent shockwaves through Uganda’s tourism sector, the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has suspended the licenses of 18 tour companies, citing suspected fraudulent practices. The companies have been ordered to halt all operations immediately as investigations get underway.
The suspensions, described as “precautionary but firm”, target both well-known and emerging players in the industry.
At the center of the storm are companies like Makaayi Tours and Travel, Vendoro Safaris, Travel Times, Gorilla Holidays (U) Limited and Karumuna Safaris Limited, names that have long been associated with organizing safaris, gorilla treks, and dream vacations.
Other companies on the list are: Akia Quest Tours, Varitus Resourcing (U) Ltd, Saso Uganda Safaris Limited, Primate Journeys Africa Limited, Mohan Tours and Travel and Gotovate Tours and Travel.
Others are; Dream Bandas Uganda Limited, Birchill Expeditions Limited, Azas Safaris U Ltd, Dorabo Tours and Travel Ltd, Brooklyn Safari Limited, All Budget Gorilla Safaris Ltd and Beyond Frontiers Travel (U) Ltd.
“We’re drawing a red line,” said Dr. Simplicious Gessa, UTB’s outspoken PR Manager. “Fraudulent actors will not be allowed to stain Uganda’s tourism reputation. We’re acting decisively to protect tourists, both local and international.”
This isn’t the UTB’s first move against suspected bad actors in the tourism business. Just last month, Exclusive Africa Safaris, a company run by Alex Mango, was suspended over similar allegations.
The UTB says this is part of a wider purge of rogue operators exploiting unsuspecting clients and undermining Uganda’s growing reputation as a premier travel destination.
“It’s not just about shutting down companies,” Dr. Gessa added. “It’s about cleaning house and rebuilding trust.”
The tourism board has urged the public especially travelers and agents to avoid dealing with the blacklisted companies until the investigations are concluded. For a sector that thrives on credibility and customer confidence, the crackdown could mark a turning point.
While some insiders welcome the clean-up, others worry it may expose deeper cracks in how tour operators are vetted and regulated.
