UHTTI Secures Shs.1.1 Billion Enabel Grant for Skills Development & Innovation
Frank Semata 
The Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI) has secured a €260,000 (UGX 1.1 billion) grant from Enabel, the Belgian development agency.
This funding aims to enhance the institute's capacity to produce skilled professionals aligned with international standards.
Speaking at the grant signing ceremony, UHTTI Principal Kawere Richard expressed gratitude, stating,
"The grant represents a vote of confidence in our institute's potential to shape the future of Uganda's tourism industry."
The grant will be utilized to upgrade UHTTI's Information Technology infrastructure, equipping students with state-of-the-art technology and creating environments that simulate real-world hotel and tourism operations.
Additionally, it will support capacity-building initiatives for staff, including training programs and workshops to enhance teaching methodologies and industry knowledge.
Curriculum development aligned with international best practices is also a key focus, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for both local and international employment opportunities.
Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating that, “Investing in Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute will support our efforts of building the capacity of our people. We're creating opportunities for young Ugandans to pursue careers in hospitality and tourism, knowing they have the skills to succeed.”
"This partnership comes at a crucial time, as Uganda's tourism and hospitality sector contributes significantly to the country's economy, accounting for 6.6% of the Gross Domestic Product and 7.2% of national employment, supporting over 800,000 jobs across key sectors such as transport, accommodation, and food services." He added.
Luc Pirson, Deputy Head of Mission and Head of Development Cooperation at the Embassy of Belgium in Uganda, emphasized Belgium's commitment to supporting Uganda's development.
He noted that Belgium is currently investing €2.5 million in Uganda's tourism and hospitality sector through Enabel, with total investments amounting to €3 million when combined with EU funding.
Pirson acknowledged the importance of tourism for Uganda and highlighted the need to raise awareness of Uganda's attractions among Belgian tourists.
"Belgium acknowledges the importance of tourism for Uganda. It's one of the sectors the government of Uganda is pushing to achieve the Tenfold Strategy by 2040, and we believe that Uganda's potential in tourism is huge. The Pearl of Africa has so much to offer to tourists," he remarked.
"We must admit that not all people in Belgium are aware of the wonders of Uganda, and that's why Belgium is also supporting events like POATE.
Ms. Sanne Willems, Team Leader for Green Transition and Private Sector at the EU Delegation to Uganda, expressed Team Europe's support for the development of a sustainable tourism sector in Uganda. She highlighted the EUR 50 million WeWork programme, which supports the creation of green and decent jobs for Ugandan youth and youth-led enterprise development in the tourism sector.
