Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) Elects New Leaders to Drive Uganda’s Tourism Forward
Ms Civy Tumusiime (3rd Left) seated with the new AUTO board members after being re-elected.
The Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO) has ushered in a leadership team poised to steer the organization into its next chapter of growth and success. The election took place on 16th/January 2025 during AUTO’s 26th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Four Points by Sheraton in Kampala. The electoral process saw only Tumusiime being retained from the old board as other members didn’t seek reelection. Ms Civy Tumusiime, the current Auto Board Chairperson got reelected after trouncing her only rival Faruk Busulwa, the Managing Director for Adventure Vacation Safaris.
The Newly Elected AUTO Board Leadership
The following individuals have been entrusted with leadership roles:
- Chairperson: Civy Tumusiime, Director at Acacia Safaris, which manages Pakuba Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park and Mpogo Safari Lodge in Lake Mburo National Parks.
- Vice Chairperson: Jonathan Erau, the Managing Director of Adventure in the Wild
- General Secretary: Dennis Ntege, the Managing Director of Raft Uganda Adventures
- Treasurer: Eugenie Nsubuga Windt, the Managing Director of Swanair Travel and Safaris
Board Members:-
- James Mwere – Managing Director MJ Safaris and Tours
- Lydia Nandutu – Managing Director of Nkuringo Safaris, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge and Papyrus Guest House in Entebbe.
- Brian Ahereza – Managing Director of Go Explore Safaris
Vision for AUTO
In her continuity capacity as Chairperson, Civy Tumusiime brings a wealth of experience in Uganda’s tourism sector. She is expected to champion AUTO’s mission to promote sustainable tourism while positioning Uganda as a top-tier global travel destination. Tumusiime emphasized her commitment to fostering strong collaborations with industry stakeholders, including the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and the Uganda Tourism Board.
The newly elected team has pledged to build on the achievements of their predecessors. Key priorities include increasing membership, addressing challenges within the tourism industry and advocating for policies that promote growth and sustainability.
About AUTO
Founded in 1995, Association of Uganda Tour Operators serves as the leading tourism trade association in Uganda. It represents the interests of professional tour operators and plays a vital role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape. The association’s initiatives are geared toward advocacy, capacity building and market expansion, which are critical for the sector’s development.
Future Outlook
AUTO’s leadership transition comes at a pivotal moment as Uganda’s tourism industry works to recover and grow following global disruptions in travel. With a strategic focus on innovation and sustainability, the new leadership is expected to strengthen Uganda’s position as a unique and competitive destination on the global stage.
By uniting the voices of tour operators and fostering collaboration across the sector, AUTO remains committed to driving economic growth and environmental conservation while delivering world-class tourism experiences.
