The Association of Uganda Tour Operators (AUTO), in partnership with House of DJs, has officially launched the ‘AUTO at 30’ Tourism Excellence Dinner, celebrating three decades of the Association’s contributions to Uganda’s tourism industry. The dinner is scheduled for October 17, 2025, at Mestil Hotel, Kampala, under the theme “Roots & Routes.”
The media launch drew figures from across the tourism sector, including Lyazzi Vivian, Commissioner of Tourism Development at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife & Antiquities, Uganda Tourism (UTB CEO Juliana Kaggwa, Grace Mubeezi from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), UTA President Yogi Birigwa, Herbert Byaruhanga, the Chairperson of the Uganda Safari Guides Association (USAGA), and representatives from the Tourism Police.
At the event, UTB CEO Juliana Kaggwa described AUTO as a “powerhouse in the tourism industry” and credited the Association with driving significant growth in Uganda’s tourism sector.
AUTO Chairperson Civy Tumusiime welcomed Uganda Tourism Board, Centenary Bank, and Marasa Africa as official sponsors for the dinner, noting their commitment to strengthening the industry. She also called on other partners to join, emphasizing that the dinner is an opportunity to celebrate AUTO’s legacy and demonstrate confidence in the sector’s future.
On October 17, industry leaders, tour operators, and storytellers promoting the Pearl of Africa internationally will gather at Mestil Hotel to celebrate 30 years of tourism excellence. The “Roots & Routes” theme reflects the Association’s history while highlighting the exciting opportunities in sustainable tourism still ahead.
Pioneers of AUTO, including Ben Katumba, Bonifence Byamukama, and Marinka Sanc George, shared reflections on the Association’s journey and its pivotal role in advancing Uganda’s tourism agenda.
The dinner is expected to be a highlight of Uganda’s tourism calendar, strengthening collaboration between public and private stakeholders while reinforcing the country’s positioning as a premier global destination. AUTO expressed gratitude to all partners who have contributed to the Association’s 30-year journey.
Tourism remains one of Uganda’s fastest-growing sectors, contributing approximately 7.7% to GDP and providing employment for over 600,000 people, according to government statistics.