The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has suspended the operating licences of 18 tour companies over allegations of fraudulent practices linked to their operations.

In a public notice issued by UTB, the companies were ordered to halt all tourism-related activities with immediate effect as investigations get underway.

Among the suspended operators are well-known names such as Makaayi Tours and Travel, Travel Times, Vendoro Safaris, Karumuna Safaris Limited, and Gorilla Holidays (U) Limited.

The list also includes:

• Akia Quest Tours
• Varitus Resourcing (U) Ltd
• Saso Uganda Safaris Limited
• Primate Journeys Africa Limited
• Mohan Tours and Travel
• Gotovate Tours and Travel
• Dream Bandas Uganda Limited
• Birchill Expeditions Limited
• Azas Safaris U Ltd
• Dorabo Tours and Travel Ltd
• Brooklyn Safari Limited
• All Budget Gorilla Safaris Ltd
• Beyond Frontiers Travel (U) Ltd

UTB stated that the suspensions are temporary and will remain in effect until investigations into the alleged fraudulent practices are concluded.

“The general public is advised to refrain from engaging with the listed companies during this period,” the notice read.

This is not the first time UTB is getting tough with uncompliant tour operators. Last month the board suspended Exclusive Africa Safaris operated by Alex Mango over matters related to fraud.

Dr. Simplicious Gessa , the Public Relations Manager at the Uganda Tourism Board emphasized that the suspensions are part of a wider crackdown on malpractice in the tourism industry, aimed at protecting tourists and safeguarding Uganda’s reputation as a premier travel destination.

“We cannot allow fraudulent operators to tarnish the image of our tourism sector. These suspensions are a precautionary measure as we investigate the allegations. Our priority is to protect visitors, ensure value for money, and maintain the integrity of Uganda’s tourism brand,” said Gessa.

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