- Kampala, Uganda
Journalist: Kazeem Balogun
Uganda, famously known as the Pearl of Africa, is witnessing a transformative phase in its tourism sector, marked by the leadership of three dynamic women: Jenifer Bamuturaki, Lily Ajarova, and Pearl Hoareau-Kakooza. These trailblazing professionals are redefining the landscape of tourism in a region traditionally dominated by male leaders.
Jenifer Bamuturaki, the CEO of Uganda Airlines, stands at the forefront of this change. She is accompanied by Lily Ajarova, CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), and Pearl Hoareau-Kakooza, Chairman of the Uganda Tourism Board. Their appointments signal a significant shift in Africa, reflecting a broader move towards gender diversity in leadership roles.
Alain St.Ange, President of the African Tourism Board (ATB), recently visited Uganda alongside Cuthbert Ncube, the Board’s Executive Chairman, as esteemed guests of the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE). This expo is recognized as East Africa’s premier tourism fair, showcasing the best of the region’s attractions and hospitality.
St.Ange, who brings a wealth of experience as the former Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports, and Marine of the Seychelles and now leads his own consultancy, Saint Ange Tourism Consultancy, had the opportunity to meet with Jenifer Bamuturaki. During their meeting, Bamuturaki provided insights into the existing and upcoming routes of Uganda Airlines, underscoring the airline’s strategic expansions.
“The drive by Jenifer Bamuturaki is remarkable, and her commitment to Uganda, its tourism industry, and Africa is clear for all to see,” stated St.Ange. He highlighted the airline’s recent route additions to Mumbai and Lagos, with more destinations on the horizon, as clear indicators of Uganda Airlines’ solid foundation and ambitious future. He emphasized that Uganda Airlines is poised to revolutionize air access across the continent, positioning Entebbe as a central hub.
St.Ange further praised Uganda Airlines for its pivotal role in enhancing connectivity between Uganda and the global community. He asserted that Africa should take pride in this success story, as it exemplifies the continent’s potential to achieve significant milestones in the aviation and tourism sectors.
Under the leadership of Bamuturaki, Ajarova, and Hoareau-Kakooza, Uganda’s tourism industry is set to thrive, showcasing the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty to the world. Their collaborative efforts and visionary strategies are not only bolstering Uganda’s tourism but also setting a powerful example for women’s leadership across Africa.