ATEI, CARE engage Reformed Warriors in Karamoja on Tourism & Climate Action

Africa Tourism and Environment Initiatives (ATEI), in partnership with CARE International and Uganda wildlife Authority has successfully completed a capacity-building training program focused on sustainable tourism for tour operators in the Karamoja region.

This initiative is part of the broader Climate Innovation for Resilience in Karamoja (CLIRK)

project, supported by CARE International and the Danish government through Danida.

In Kapedo Sub-County, Karenga District, former cattle warriors, once known as cattle rustlers, are now being recognized as "Reformed Cattle Rustlers" thanks to ATEI’s ongoing efforts.

This program aims to shift the mindsets of these individuals by equipping them with essential skills in tour guiding, community scouting, conservation advocacy, peace-building, and hospitality management.

The training is a significant step toward integrating local communities into the tourism value chain while fostering a culture of peace and environmental stewardship.

Participants have learned how to leverage their deep knowledge of the Karamoja landscape to promote sustainable tourism and act as advocates for environmental conservation.

A key highlight of this project is the focus on establishing Kalimon Valley Dam as a new and thriving agro-tourism destination.

The Kalimon Valley Dam Agro-Tourism CLIRK project aims to blend agriculture, nature, conservation, and culture, creating a sustainable model that benefits both the environment and local communities.

Through this initiative, ATEI and CARE are working to turn the valley into a hub of eco-friendly tourism that highlights the region’s unique cultural heritage and natural beauty while supporting local livelihoods.

The training is part of the first phase of ATEI’s Ekkula Sustainable Tourism Capacity-Building Initiative in Karamoja. This initiative is designed to prepare community guides and tour operators for the upcoming prestigious Ekkula Sustainable Tourism Awards.

As a special feature of the training, participants were provided with 5 binoculars and taught how to use these tools effectively to enhance their tour-guiding experience.

This not only enriches the visitor experience but also positions these reformed warriors as skilled and knowledgeable custodians of Karamoja’s natural and cultural heritage.

ATEI is calling on stakeholders, development partners, and the global tourism community to join them in championing sustainable tourism practices that build a more resilient and peaceful future for Karamoja and beyond.