As we all come close to the End of the Year 2020,we bring you a recap of the biggest Top 100 stories that have made headlines both at local and international level covering; Uganda’s Tourism, the world of Aviation and Travel amidst the existence of COVID-19 Pandemic transiting all through from start of Year, all through the Lockdown, to the new normal and to the post Covid – 19 Era. Did you miss out on any of our weekly newsletters or biggest story in the Tourism and Travel Industry? Worry not; we have you covered in this End of Year Newsletter for your pick. Enjoy the Year’s Highlights in this Editorial for your readership.
01. Best 10 Amazing Animals to see in Uganda
Uganda’s biggest tourist draw is indubitably the mountain gorillas, but these aren’t the country’s only great wild animals. By numbers, game viewing is the most popular tourist activity in Uganda. Wild animals like lions, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes, elephants are common in Uganda’s ten national parks but there are more amazing and less commonly talked about animals that exist in Uganda. At Guide2Uganda, we bring to you the best 10 Amazing Animals to see in Uganda. Check them bellow. Mountain Gorillas Atop of our list are the Mountain gorillas. These great apes are one of the two subspecies of the eastern gorilla and the largest of the living primates. They have muscular arms, a massive chest, and broad hands and feet. Their thick black hair helps insulate them from cold weather.
photo illustrates the effects of tannins
02. Newly appointed Ugandan Minister of Tourism takes Office
The newly sworn-in Ugandan minister of Tourism. Wildlife and Antiquities (MTWA) Hon. Tom Butime Rwakaikara has taken on reign replacing the former minister Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu who officially handed over office on January 23, 2020 following his appointment to other national duties.
New Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Col. (Rtd) Tom Butime
03. Africa’s second deepest lake on way to become Ramsar site
Due to fears of destruction and possible depletion, efforts by local leaders and concerned citizens are in high gear to see Lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s second deepest lake graduate to be considered a Ramsar site by the Ramsar Convention.
A Ramsar is a wetland site selected to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention that was established in 1971 during an intergovernmental environmental treaty by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Once considered a Ramsar site, lake Bunyonyi wetland will seize to be a public space but rather a protected site where access is permitted under caution and natural use is prohibited. This will eventually see the site grow to serve generations other than being left for anyone to use exposing it to possible misuse and depletion.
04. Qatar Airlines – Live up to your promises or stop the lies- says Customer
Ruth Bahika Kendegye – Founder of Grace Villa, a home for vulnerable girls based in, Kabale, Kigezi South Western Uganda booked for travel with Qatar Airways and was scheduled for a 9:25pm long haul flight on Monday October 26th 2020 from Dulles International Airport, Washington DC to Entebbe International Airport in Uganda with a connection via Hamad International Airport in Doha. But all efforts to be a part of this long haul flight were futile.
One of the conditions for air travel to Uganda is negative results from a Covid-19 PCR Test, done 72 hours before the flight. The timing for such a test is tricky. As the window is small, it has to be timed with precision. On the morning of her flight, Ruth had still not received the results of a test she took, so she frantically contacted the testing facility. They said the results had still not been released by the lab, so they offered to administer a Covid-19 Rapid Result test. She received these Rapid Results in 20 minutes. Armed with these, she arrived at Dulles Airport and proceeded to check in.
Unfortunately, the airline would not accept these results as per policy, for these turned out to be from an Antigen test, not the required PCR test. Ruth and a number of other passengers were refused to board. Disappointed but understanding that policy had to be followed for health safety reasons, she attempted to rebook herself onto another flight at the Qatar Airways desk. Her efforts were turned down and she was directed to visit the Qatar Airlines website or call their toll free number the following morning. As luck would have it – or not – her PCR test results came through that very night, a few hours after the flight had left.
05. Lilly Ajarova highlights on POATE as Exhibition nears
As we all anticipate for the biggest 5th edition of the Pearl Of Africa Tourism Expo slated to take place between the 4th to 6th February 2020 at Speke Resort, Munyonyo under the theme ‘Promoting Intra-Africa Travel’, Uganda Tourism Board’s CEO, Lily Ajarova on Tuesday shared more highlights about the upcoming three days Expo with members of the Media at Protea Hotel Kampala.
This year’s exhibition will feature more than 57 confirmed hosted buyers from Africa; South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Zanzibar, Botswana, Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe and the rest of the world including; Thailand, Germany, Russia, Malaysia, Philippines, India, USA and Italy who are already in the Country and were flagged Off on Wednesday morning for fam trips in the four regions of Uganda.
06. Indulge in Dubai this New Year with My Emirates Pass
Emirates airline has announced the return of its signature pass, My Emirates Pass – a fantastic offer that turns an Emirates boarding pass into an exclusive membership card allowing customers to avail special benefits and discounts of up to 50% off in over 500 retail outlets and leisure destinations across the UAE.
The airline’s signature pass enables Emirates passengers flying to and through Dubai from 1st January until 31st March 2020 to see more for less during their stopover or holiday. Customers can take advantage and explore the country’s many attractive offerings including thrilling waterparks, luxurious wellness centres, and impressive shopping malls.
07. 176 travelers perish in Ukraine International Airlines air accident in Iran
On Wednesday January 8th, a Ukraine International Airlines Boeing 737-800 crashed shortly after take-off from Imam Khomeini Airport in Tehran. The plane is a 3.5 years old Boeing 737-800 with registration UR-PSR.
The aircraft while operating flight PS752 from Tehran to Kyiv disappeared from the radars a few minutes after departure from Tehran International Airport. The aircraft departed from Tehran International Airport at 06:10, Iran local time.
08. Uganda national military museum takes ground
It’s yet another bright ray of hope in the Ugandan tourism sector. In a bid to preserve Uganda’s military history, the President of the Republic of Uganda H.E Yoweri Museveni has laid a foundation stone to commence the construction of the Uganda National Military Museum at Katonga bridge, Mpigi District.
While at the function, Museveni applauded the UPDF and its department of doctrine for finally documenting the unique and special history of the National Resistance Army.
“This (museum) offers people an opportunity to study and understand the factors that helped our struggle succeed.” Museveni said.
He also added that most of the wars especially in Africa had people backing them up for their success unlike the NRM which was entirely supported and backed by native Ugandans.
09. Worries in Uganda as Lake Victoria waters continue to swell
The continued heavy rains that kick started by the start of this year have seen an overwhelmingly outburst in the amount of water volume in Uganda’s water bodies. This has become more than a fear than a positive. Not only have the nearby infrastructure been submerged but also thousands of people living and working by the lake’s shores have been displaced, businesses interrupted and much property destroyed. This is after the lake’s water moved more than 13.12 metres ashore, the second highest on record since it rose to 13.46 metres in 1964.
10. IATA warns of “Severe and Immediate” Air Cargo capacity crunch
IATA calls on governments to cut red tape to allow the smooth flow of cargo around the world.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that global air cargo is facing a “severe and immediate” capacity crunch as a result of Covid-19 and urged governments to offer more support to airlines and cut red tape.
“At present, we don’t have enough capacity to meet the remaining demand for air cargo,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s CEO.
“Volumes fell by over 15% in March compared to the previous year. But capacity plummeted by almost 23%.”
11. Post Covid-9: What ought to be done past the pandemic
Of late, Uganda has been applauded by different stakeholders for taking pivotal measures against the Corona disease pandemic even before it recorded the first case of the virus. This in turn saw low numbers of Covid-19 cases with none from community infections but rather imported infections as of today.
Following the first cases reported last December in the Chinese Wuhan province experts cautioned on a great possibility of the situation turning into a pandemic given the way it was spreading from individual to individual. Regardless, the speed and magnitude by which it spread all over the world took many countries by surprise.
Some of the decisive measures that saw Uganda streamline the disease’s spread included shutting down all local and international flights, all public and private transport systems not forgetting the countrywide stay home lockdown coupled with a later curfew in the evenings. To a dark part, many countries have been obligated to fight the pandemic single-handedly for the concerns for citizens.
12. RwandAir slashes up to 65% staff salary to level off losses caused by Covid-19 Pandemic
Following a string of inevitable cash fallouts as a result the on-going global Corona Virus pandemic, the management of RwandAir has been forced to cut salaries of workers, with top executives losing as much as 65% of their net pay. This is a response action as the company moves forward to tackle the recurring losses incurred emerging from the global action of grounding and restricting flights to avoid the coronavirus spread.
In a documented memo to all staff, RwandAir CEO Yvonne Makolo, said the lowest paid staff will lose 8% of their pay while the highest paid will lose as much as 65% of their salaries to lavage the company’s financial position.
13. Mountain Gorillas could contract COVID-19
With the whole globe at surge of the deadly Corona Virus disease, several conservatives have hinted and warned on fears about the disease crossing to humanity’s ‘next of kin’ the mountain gorillas. Regardless of the fact that these apes are highly endangered, once the virus crosses over to them, it could whip out their entire population because they are highly sensitive to human diseases.
Given the fact that mountain gorillas share a close genetic similarity in the DNA makeup with humans, them too are susceptible to contracting the Corona virus disease once they come close to a transferrable individual. Mountain gorillas can contract some respiratory diseases that human contract.
14. Ethiopian Airlines loses up to $550 million but believes it can carry on regardless
Ethiopian Airlines which doubles as Africa’s biggest airline, has since January lost more than a hooping half-a-billion dollars because of the coronavirus pandemic which has hit way hard the whole world businesses. However, regardless of the financial loss, the company’s CEO reports the company is in high belief it can carry on regardless especially in part by turning focus to improving its cargo business.
Tewolde affirmed the fact that the airline is facing a severe financial crisis and also highlighted that three airline employees had earlier tested positive for COVID-19 though currently in stable condition. Regardless of the company’s wanting financial muscle, Tweolde is confident that Ethiopian Airlines will kick back strongly and ride out the current inevitable storm.
Photo of recently acquired Ethiopian Airline B-737 – 800 MAX aircraft
15. Air ticket prices hiked to about three times higher than usual as expats exit Kenya
The travel and hospitality industries are the worst hit by the on-going coronavirus pandemic due to global travel restrictions. This has seen a number of foreign visitors, volunteers and scholars get confined in Kenya and distanced from their home countries. However, as the lock down and travel restrictions take toll day in day out, nostalgia has kicked in and thus great urge to travel back home set in.
In a bid to save their own, foreign governments have organised charter flights from firms such as Kenya Airways and Ethiopian airlines. These in turn are making a kill due to the prevailing conditions. Expatriates in Kenya are paying hooping fees of up to three times normal ticket prices to return to their home countries as airlines provide charter flights for repatriation.
Following the same cause, Kenya Airways this coming Friday will transport passengers to London Heathrow airport from JKIA charging Ksh187,692 ($1,876) for the one-way ticket including testing for Covid-19 at Lancet. Usually, a ticket from Nairobi to London and back before Corona took toll on the transport sector would go for Ksh96,430 ($964) or about Ksh48,215 ($482) one way.
16. Airbus announces losses of €481 Million for Q1
Airbus has posted a first-quarter 2020 loss of €481 million ($522m) this Wednesday, due to the aviation crisis destroying air travel demand and negating the need for new aircraft. The situation is so unparalleled that Airbus was unable to give a financial outlook in its statement to shareholders. It did, however, outline several steps that it was taking to mitigate the impact.
Airbus today issued its first-quarter results to media, reporting an overall loss of €481 million ($522 million). The company did have some positive news, such as 290 new aircraft orders. While this was 58 less than last year, it’s a solid result given the current situation.
Airbus’ plant in Tianjin, China, was temporarily closed in February but has since resumed deliveries to customers.
17. South African airlines expected to lose R40 billion while COVID-19 affects Aviation Industry
Since the outbreak of the deadly global pandemic novel coronavirus, South Africa’s airline industry has been hit hard while it’s national carrier South African airways continued sinking after years of struggling on the market.
The continued lockdowns due to limiting the spread of coronavirus across major regional and global routes have impacted highly other Airlines that have been operating in South Africa and all networks that link to the Southern Africa destination). According to the latest projections by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), South Africa’s airline industry is expected to lose upto 10.7 million fewer passengers transported and chocking on a loss of about R40 billion ($2.29 billion).
18. Tanzania’s Tourism Sector to reopen amid implementation of tight COVID-19 SOP’s
The United Republic of Tanzania plans to have the Tourism Industry start again bearing in mind the Coronavirus preventive measures. No Tourist allowed to enter Tanzania upon possessing COVID-19. All Airlines to screen Tourists before boarding while all Tourism value chain staff will be subjected to Coronavirus tests and social distancing of one metre to be maintained between staff to staff and staff to tourist.
Last week, Tanzanian Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism laid down strategies on restarting the Country’s Tourism Industry after almost months of international mandatory halt on Tourists and travelers across the World after Coronavirus, a global pandemic took its toll on the Global Tourism, travel and Aviation industry when nations closed down borders and airports from international travel as a direct means of curbing down the spread of the virus in different countries as allowed flights were only Cargo for essential items and Citizen repatriation of concerned countries of their people living and working in foreign countries amidst tight lockdowns in respective countries globally which didn’t spare Tanzania although she didn’t put the Country on Lockdown.
Tourists enjoying Cultural Tourism in Tanzania
19. Brussels Airlines pilots propose a temporary salary decrease to save jobs
In an open letter, the pilots at Brussels Airlines make a number of proposals to save the airline. Last week, Brussels Airlines – severely hit by the coronavirus pandemic announced a drastic cut in fleet, destinations and workforce where up to 1,000 jobs are at stake including 191 pilots and 470 cabin crew members.
“Brussels Airlines was just recovering from the Eurowings debacle – several attempts to integrate the airline into the low-cost branch of the Lufthansa Group failed – when the next crisis was just around the corner,” the pilots wrote. “The lack of vision of our German and Belgian management has cost an enormous amount of money and time. Despite several warnings from its staff, the airline lost three precious years that could have been better used for the airline’s health and profitability.”
20. Rwanda to open borders for international passengers after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted
Rwanda still afraid of opening her borders for fears of contracting Coronavirus which may become an overwhelming issue and danger to the Country’s health system. Travelers to be updated after 15 days on when restrictions are to be lifted as they will have to rebook again at no added cost either through the airline or travel agents.
Coronavirus, a flu like global pandemic that started late December 2019 in China’s city of Wuhan and later spread to other parts of the world including Africa led to the ban of flights on major routes and destinations as most airlines had to ground some of their fleet so as to limit the spread of the pandemic and to this Rwanda was not exception as H.E President Paul Kagame had to put the Country under mandatory lockdown since March this year when COVID-19 extended to Africa and among lockdown measures consisted closure of Kigali International Airport and all border entry points only to be left entry for Cargo and repatriation flights of foreign nationals.
The much long awaited Uganda Airlines two – 1st A330neo Airbus arrived at Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday 22nd December from Toulouse, France after a long haul 7 hour and 30 minutes flight since being handed over by Airbus Manufacturers on Monday early this week. The France to destination Uganda flight depart Toulouse at 01:00hrs which is an equivalent of 3am Ugandan time and was received with a water salute as the norm is for new Aircraft at Entebbe International Airport.
22. EASA/ECDC issue joint guidelines to assure health safety in air travel despite COVID-19 pandemic
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) issued a joint document defining measures to assure the health safety of air travellers and aviation personnel once airlines resume regular flight schedules following the severe disruption caused by COVID-19.
The guidelines place paramount importance on health safety at every stage of the end-to-end passenger journey. Recognising that airports, airlines and aircraft are different, it takes a pragmatic approach in implementation – highlighting and giving guidance on the ways in which individual locations and situations can best be re-engineered to meet the new health safety standards.
KLM cabin crew member wearing a face mask
23. Kenya Airways to offer special charter flights between Nairobi and London this June
As Covid-19 engulfed the Aviation space, many Countries closed down their borders and airports off from global travel and access into different destinations that left very many travelers stranded as a result due to limit – the spread of Coronavirus, a global pandemic that has left many dead across the World while many Countries till date continue to register new overwhelming cases despite the fact that some Economies are starting to reopen up for ‘’Business as Usual’ as they lift on Lockdowns while they strategize on effectively preventing spread of the virus during the new normal.
It should be recalled that, as different Countries worldwide closed off borders and Airports by March this year, many citizens who had traveled abroad and pending return to their Countries were left stranded in foreign nations even when they sought for repatriation but all in vain.
24. A List of Airports Offering COVID-19 Testing Onsite for Travelers
With the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for Covid-19 continuing to be a pre requisite prior any air travel, travelers have been faced with difficulties especially in acquiring timely test results.
However, the good news is that some airports and airlines have started their own COVID-19 testing operations as a way to get passengers back in the skies and improve customer confidence especially as holiday travel sets in.
Top U.S. carriers like United Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines and American Airlines have incorporated testing as a model, offering travelers a path to visit their desired destinations. JetBlue on the other hand has turned to at-home saliva tests to enhance customers ease.
Internationally, Lufthansa and Emirates have also turned to on-the-ground testing. Past the airlines, airports too have also taken action by setting up COVID-19 testing sites right in the terminals to give passengers ease of mind to travel.
Many airlines are advertising the fact that they are fumigating aircraft cabins after each journey to protect crew and passengers from Covid-19. But how effective is this method of disinfection?
The World Health Organisation on Saturday published a document advising against the routine application of disinfectants by spraying or ‘fogging’ in indoor spaces.
Airlines across the market have been reassuring passengers that they are sanitising their cabins between flights using a variety of measures, including WHO-recommended strategies like wiping down surfaces with disinfectant.
Aircraft cabins are inherently clean environments, and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) says that High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters on modern planes clean cabin air to hospital operating theatre quality.
26. Airline CEOs put forward Five principles for Industry’s restart
Airlines must put safety first and will meet their environmental targets despite Covid-19, according to IATA principles.
Airline CEOs on the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) board have set out five principles designed to facilitate the smooth reopening of the aviation industry as global travel restrictions are eased.
“Restarting air transport is important,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s CEO. “Even as the pandemic continues, the foundations for an industry re-start are being laid through close collaboration of the air transport industry with ICAO, the WHO, individual governments and other parties.
27. What COVID means for the African Aviation Industry
According to a report released by the IATA, African aviation is effectively at a standstill. The report states that on May 12th, flights in Africa were operating at just 6% of the level of January this year. Despite the desperate situation, governments in African nations have provided less support than elsewhere in the world. This begs the question; what exactly is the future of aviation in Africa?
The IATA report goes on to say how the total loss of revenue for African airlines totals around $6 billion so far. This means a loss of 3 million jobs in the industry and a further knock-on effect to GDP of losses totalling $28 billion.
28. European countries are cautiously reopening for summer travel
While appearing in the press earlier on, European Union economic affairs commissioner, Paolo Gentiloni said that their message was that they would have a tourist season this summer even if it was to be with security limitations.
Such prevention measures comprise of updating health protocols for hotels and public transit and expanding contact-tracing between member states. The major goal by the Commission is “to help the EU tourism sector recover from the pandemic, by supporting businesses and ensuring that Europe continues to be the number one destination for visitors.”
However, there are some predominant regulations key of them being that non-European tourists will have to wait until at least June 15 to begin their visits. But much of the loosening of restrictions will be left up to individual nations.
United Kingdom, France and Ireland have agreed to allow travel with in their boarders less of 14-day quarantine in the final destination.
29. Top 10 Hotels in the world – One is from Africa
As earlier reported on the magazine’s website, atop in the category of Best Hotels in the World is Bali, Capella Ubud which has been recognized as the best hotel and leisure spot the world for the year 2020. According to the magazine, the awards were issued taking into consideration input of its readers who travel around the world.
1.Capella Ubud, Bali, Indonesia. Indonesia has of late been referred to as a leisure haven by most travellers. It’s with no doubt one of its celebrated hotels Capella Ubud located in Bali atops this list. Apart from being voted the best hotel, Capella Ubud is also ranked first in the category Resort Hotel in Asia and Resort Hotel In Indonesia. Opened in 2018, the hotel offers 22 luxury villas in the wilderness of Ubud. Capella is equipped with luxury amenities such as indoor and outdoor gyms and a spa. All properties, like their treehouse, are made from local teak wood and feature a private pool, winding river views, and a stretch of paddy fields.
2.Hotel Amparo, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
Capella Ubud, Bali, Indonesia.
30. Today in History: The mystery, tales and trials of Kenya Airways
For over forty years, Kenya Airways has steadily built a reputation as one of the best-known airlines in Africa. In recent years, the airline has been overshadowed by local juggernaut Ethiopian Airlines. But Kenya Airways has a devoted fan base who’ve supported the airline over the decades through good times and bad.
Kenya Airways was set up in 1977 from the remains of East African Airways. Since then, the airline has been based at Jomo Kenyatta Airport in Nairobi. From the start, Kenya Airways flew a mix of domestic and international flights. In 1977, two Boeing 707-321s began flying the Nairobi – Frankfurt – London route. They leased these two planes from British Midland. Locally, the airline was using a Douglas DC-9-52 and several Fokker F27-200s.
31. KLM starts ramping up its flight Schedule for the summer season
The Dutch airline said on Tuesday (June 2nd) that it would be making the majority of additions in Southern Europe. The airline will provide 60% more flights in July in comparison to this month as it battles low flight volumes due to coronavirus.
Just a few months since many of the world’s borders and air travel shut due to COVID-19, some airlines are now ready to start flying again. Having gently increased its flight schedule in May and June, KLM is now keen to take travelers back to their favorite summer hotspots.
In July 2020, KLM will be flying to a total of 124 destinations, which is a significant increase on its June program. The planned schedule includes 73 destinations in Europe.
32. World’s busiest Heathrow Airport reports $1.30 Billion first half loss as passengers dropby 60%
London’s Heathrow Airport on Wednesday revealed that is has lost just over £1 billion ($1.30 billion) before tax and adjustments in the first six months of 2020. The news comes as the airport simultaneously revealed that passengers using the airport had fallen by 60% compared to the same period in 2019. In more positive news, the airport is starting to show signs of recovery.
None of the aviation industry is expected to release positive results for much of this year, given the current situation. Indeed, we’ve seen a flurry of negative results of late.
On Wednesday, it was Heathrow Airport’s turn to reveal its latest financial results. However, unlike most who have published quarterly results, the airport opted to release first-half results. The airport saw its revenue fall by half from £1.46 billion ($1.89 billion) in 2019, to £712 million ($923 million) in 2020.
33. UWA reopens national parks for tourism
The Uganda Wildlife Authority, a national body charged with Uganda’s wildlife care taking, has effective today 6th June reopened the nation’s national parks for tourism. This comes as the president of Uganda earlier lifted on the lockdown measures that saw public transport revived though under tight conditions and surveillance.
In a statement issued by the UWA, the body said that all the savannah national parks are open for tourism provided all standard operating procedures have been undertaken in the protected areas to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
“All tourism activities within the protected areas shall be undertaken in a manner that ensures all guidelines of the ministry of health and the directives of His Excellency the President are adhered to,” the statement read.
34. UWA subsidizes entrance fees to tourist sites amidst festive season
In a bid to attract more visitors during the festive season, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has reduced on entrances dues for accessing tourist sites.
In a letter from UWA earlier published, the authority stressed out that they would be running seasonal offers to the general public.
“As Uganda continues to manage the impacts of COVID19 and welcome visitors to the various destinations around the country, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is pleased to inform the general public that it will be running a festive season price discount,” reads a statement from the office of the executive director of UWA.
35. World’s 5-Star Airlines ranked
The SKYTRAX 5-Star Airline rating, a unique mark of Quality Achievement and global benchmark of Airline Excellence has ranked down the world’s 5-Star Airlines 2020. The global airline quality rating programme was introduced in 1999 by SKYTRAX. Over the years, the ranked 5-Star airlines have been consistent and rendered top notch service.
The 5-Star status is awarded to airlines achieving a very high, overall Quality performance. The SKYTRAX 5-Star Airline rating recognises high standards of Airport and Onboard Product together with consistent and excellent standards of Staff Service delivery across the Airport and Cabin service environments. Reigning in the 5-Star category are amazing airlines and undoubtedly of great reputation. Below are airlines ranked in the SKYTRAX 5-Star Airline category
After being around for nearly eight months, the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) Entebbe has revealed a pair of grown up Tigers.
The pair of tigers, a male and female tiger, were earlier on imported from South Africa and were exchanged for 25 monkeys from Uganda.
“We just met their shipping fee of US$2,000 from South Africa to Uganda,” commented Dr. Musinguzi, the UWEC executive director. The two tigers which are yet to be christened, consume 10kg of meat every day, putting their feeding cost at Sh150,000 daily.
37. Traveling With Children And Masks – What You Ought To Know?
As the world opens up again, you might be getting ready to travel with your family. What are the rules on mask-wearing, and how can you prepare your children for their next trip?
38. Human activities threatening Ugandan wildlife habitats
Over time, there have been increased reports of human encroachment on wildlife protected areas. Communities living around national parks continue to find way into wildlife habitats in search of expansive arable land and to a worse extent human settlement.
Earlier on, to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) came up with Buffer zoning, a solution that was thought of to be a lasting one. According to John Makombo, Director Conservation UWA, the main intent for the buffer zone was mainly to grow in a crop that was unpalatable to the wildlife so that they couldn’t cross the belt and go further than that crop range.
Courtesy Photo by Uganda Wildlife Authority.
39. Man detained for killing marabou stork
Following a viral camera recording that depicted a male citizen killing and slaughtering a marabou stock, Police in Wakiso took swift action to take him in. To what could seemingly be seen as a mere joke of a video took the man and many to surprise who never knew that killing a national bird could land you into prison.
The alleged criminal is a resident of Busigiri Zone, Bunamwaya in Wakiso District. The accused was arrested on an offence of injuring or killing an animal contrary to the set constitutional law that prohibits illegal killing or maiming of wild animals. According to Section 60 of the Uganda Wildlife Act, it’s a crime to kill or injure a national bird.
40. An-26 Cargo Plane Crashes After Takeoff In South Sudan
A South West Aviation Antonov An-26 cargo plane crashed after taking off from Juba on Saturday. The freighter aircraft was operating a charter service between Juba and Aweil in South Sudan. Initial reports, which can’t be confirmed yet, have stated that as many as 17 people lost their lives in the crash. However, one person on board is said to have survived the crash and was in a critical condition. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the aircraft lost height shortly after departure and fell in a farm near the suburbs of the country’s capital.
The crash took place around 9:00 AM local time. Many news reports were initially stating that eight people were on board; however, now it is assumed that there were, in fact, 17 passengers. Many videos and photos from the crash site have circulated social media. Although the wing section is somewhat intact, the fuselage of the aircraft has been destroyed due to impact and fire.
41. New South African National Airline Could Launch In January
A new South African airline could start operations as soon as January of next year, according to the South African financial website BusinessTech. While quoting the South African Sunday Times, BusinessTech says that the South African government is working with private investors and has already received more than ten offers.
The paper claims that the private firms looking to invest in the new SAA is also exploring the integration of some of the airline’s subsidiaries, including Mango and SAA Technical. Mango Airlines is SAA’s low-cost subsidiary based at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB). SAA Technical meanwhile provides aircraft maintenance services for many of the continent’s airlines.
42. Other Kenyan Airlines banned from Tanzania’s Airspace over Corona disease standoff
The Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) has barred three more Kenyan airlines from flying into the country’s airspace in retaliation for Kenya subjecting passengers from Tanzania to a mandatory 14-day COVID-19 quarantine on arrival.
As by late April, this year, Tanzania reported 509 COVID-19 cases and 21 deaths before the country stopped publishing the pandemic’s tally. Later on the President of Tanzania John Magufuli declared that the country was corona free and there were no patients within, ordering social and economic activities to resume.
Fly540 staff board a plane during the launch of flights to Vipingo ridge golf resort at Wilson airport on March 18 2011. The airline has introduced three flights a week which will operate from the airport via Malindi on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.Passengers will pay an introductory return fare of Ksh 10 540 inclusive of taxes.PHOEBE OKALL (NAIROBI)
43. Travellers face penalties for refusing to wear face coverings
Failure to comply can jeopardise a flight’s safety and impact the work environment for crew, says IATA
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is appealing to all travellers to wear a face covering during their journey and said that failure to comply means that a passenger faces the risk of being offloaded from their flight.
Etihad introduces MicrobeBARRIER™ face protection SM
44. Ethiopian Airlines opens new terminal at its Addis Ababa hub
Ethiopian Airlines expands its global hub Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and unveils its new Aviation Infrastructure blending Modernity with Bio Safety.
Ethiopian Airlines Group has successfully completed a new passenger terminal at its hub Addis Ababa Bole International Airport with emphasis on Bio Security and Bio-Safety measures.
45. Coronavirus hits hard domestic tourism in Uganda
News about the current Corona Virus Diseases (COVID-19) has taken troll worldwide. Every other day, key decisions are being taken by countries and authorities to cub down the fast spreading virus. Among the key decisions that have been under taken by the government of Uganda is restricting visitors from main virus struck countries and quarantining visitors for a period of at least 14 days. This has come with a big impact on Ugandan tourism industry.
Tour operators across Uganda are decrying the less phone calls coming through from tourist correspondents, foiled emails and more so, some of the tourists that could have earlier booked hotel accommodation and other services are cancelling reservations and demanding refund.
Uganda joined the rest of the world to celebrate the International World Tourism Day on 27th September 2020, with a call for increased involvement of rural communities in the tourism value chain.
Held under the theme, “Tourism and Rural Development”, this year’s celebrations highlighted the benefits of including locals in tourism, especially the rural communities that host the various tourism attractions across the country.
The celebrations were hosted at Nyaika Hotel by the King of Tooro, His Majesty Omukama Oyo Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV. In attendance, were a number of dignitaries including: Hon. Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Col. Tom Butime; Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Mrs. Doreen Katusiime; Resident Representative, UNDP to Uganda, Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah; Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Chief Executive Officer, Lilly Ajarova. Uganda Wildlife Authority Executive Director, Sam Mwandha and Uganda Wildlife Education Center, Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi. Also in attendance were cabinet members of the Tooro Kingdom, local government leadership, cultural groups and tourism private sector; among others.
The celebrations were hosted at Nyaika Hotel by the King of Tooro, His Majesty Omukama Oyo Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV. In attendance, were a number of dignitaries including: Hon. Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Col. Tom Butime; Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Mrs. Doreen Katusiime; Resident Representative, UNDP to Uganda, Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah; Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Chief Executive Officer, Lilly Ajarova. Uganda Wildlife Authority Executive Director, Sam Mwandha and Uganda Wildlife Education Center, Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi. Also in attendance were cabinet members of the Tooro Kingdom, local government leadership, cultural groups and tourism private sector; among others.
47. World Wild Fund for Nature (WWF) calls for investment to boost tourism in Rwenzori NP
The World Wild Fund for Nature (WWF) Country Director, David Duli has called upon the private sector to invest in Rwenzori Mountain National Park (RMNP), one of Uganda’s least visited national parks.
David Duli states that in addition to the unique geographical location, the Rwenzori natural heritage and biodiversity importance has been internationally recognized and is of great importance.
“As a result, the part has been designated by United Nations Education, Scientific and cultural organization (UNESCO) as the World Heritage Site (WHS), Important Bird Area (IBA), RAMSAR site and Endemic Bird Area. This makes the park a global resource attraction,” Duli says.
Well-known for their diverse unique alpine flora which includes many species endemic to the Albertine Rift in the higher altitude zones, the Rwenzori mountains remain a spectacular tourism site.
48. Newly appointed Uganda Tourism ambassador Eddie Kenzo calls out for localization of tourism
The newly appointed Ugandan Tourism Ambassador who doubles as a multi-award-winning top musician Ediirisa Musuza alias Eddy Kenzo has called upon Ugandan tour operators to localize the tourism sector so as to improve the bruised tourism sector.
This comes as Uganda joined the entire world to celebrate the annual International Tourism Day celebrated every 27th September. Kenzo made this call with reflection from this year’s theme ‘Tourism and Rural Development’ which he believes will help the sector rip huge from the locals in a bid to develop their communities.
49. Brussels Airlines expands its offer to Entebbe Airport and Africa during next winter
At the start of the winter season, 14 destinations will be included in the airline’s intercontinental offer, with a sole focus on Africa. The airline will expand its offer with 12% as of October 25th. As of this winter, Brussels Airlines will fly to Abidjan on a daily base. During winter holidays, extra frequencies will be added to Banjul, Bujumbura, Dakar, Douala, Entebbe, Freetown, Kigali, Kinshasa, Monrovia and Yaoundé. During this peak period, running from the beginning of December until the beginning of January, the airline will offer 40% more flights compared to September/October 2020. In February ‘21, also Luanda and New York JFK are planned to be added to the network.
50. Uganda Tourism Board awarded the Safer Tourism Evaluated Seal
The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) yet again has something great to be proud of with recent achievement having been awarded the Safer Tourism Evaluated Seal by Safer Tourism organization under Rebuilding Tourism.
Earlier on 24th August, Uganda Tourism Board CEO Lilly Ajarova and Quality Assurance Officer Samora Semakula applied for the Safer Tourism Seal. In addition to the self-assessment, UTB included a request for an independent evaluation.
The Safer Tourism Seal is available for any destination and tourism stakeholder based on self-assessment. By the Uganda Tourism Board adding the important option and going a step further for an evaluation, shows an important commitment and a way to double check on policies in place.
UTB CEO, Lily Ajarova addressing guests yesterday at Protea hotel.
51. Uganda Ranked Among Top Destinations to Visit In 2020
Following numerous developments and positive changes in her tourism industry, Uganda has once again been ranked big in the recently released New York Times’ list of the top 52 places to visit this year 2020. The pearl of Africa was ranked one of the five African countries which the New York Times has recommended as must-visit destinations for every traveller in 2020.
The prime reason to why Uganda was ranked high, New York Times explains that Uganda is a Private Capital and home to the highest population of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas living in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National parks hence the best gorilla safari destination in Africa.
It further explains that Uganda is home to over 1000 bird species some of which are so unique that they cannot be found elsewhere in the world.
52. Uganda marks 58 years of self-rule
Every year on 9th October, Uganda celebrates her Independence Day. It’s a day the ‘Union Jack’ was lowered and the Ugandan flag hoisted up as a sign of transfer of administerial roles from the British to the Ugandan Government.
On October 9th 1962, Uganda achieved her independence with the then prime minister Sir Apollo Milton Obote handed the administration wing by the British who had earlier colonized the country thus disclaiming further administration of Uganda as a British protectorate.
While celebrating this year’s Independence Day, at an event attended by high ranking government officials and religious leaders held indoors at State house Entebbe, the celebration ran under the theme; Celebrating Uganda’s steady progress towards economic take off and self-sustaining economic growth.
53. Covid-19 lockdown has affected Ugandan Wildlife with poaching instances on the rise
Due to the lockdown on most of Uganda’s tourism centers, there have been less tourists and related tourism activities. This has ceased tourism income earlier gotten from such activities thus pushing many people who depended on tourists into poaching the very animals the industry depends on.
According to Uganda’s wildlife authorities, there has been a drastic increment of poaching instances around national parks. The parks recorded doubled figures of wildlife poaching during the pandemic lockdown as compared to previous years.
For example, between February and June of this year, the Uganda Wildlife Authority recorded 367 poaching cases across the country, more than double the 163 cases recorded during a similar period in 2019.
54. Heritage: Uganda’s virgin tourism heaven
The pearl of Africa is a natural wonder harbored in the eastern part of Africa. With her diverse natural features and conducive climate, Uganda is a tourism heaven all year around. The country’s major tourist attractions range from wildlife, natural geographical features, diverse population groupings and their cultures among others. However, Ugandan heritage as a tourist attraction has been undermined in this trade for quite a long time.
Currently, Uganda is home to three Unesco recognized World Heritage sites. These include the two national parks Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mountain Rwenzori National Park and Kasubi Tombs, a cultural site in Kampala.
55. Inaugural Africa Kwetu Motor Fuel Economy tour animates participants
Over the weekend, the inaugural fun filled Africa Kwetu Motor Fuel Economy tour that took place in Hoima, western Uganda came to a grand finish after two days of competitive track racing between motor circuit drivers.
The motor tour that left revealers and participants exhilarated saw then call upon the organizers to have the event. The rally participants were treated to a tour at Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve where they interacted with different animals and birds besides visiting the oil well in the park.
Among the participants was rally driver Rajiv Ruparelia who also had say to the organisers about having more of such rallies and tours.
56. Uganda’s capital, Kampala ranked among the cheapest cities for expatriates
Conferring to the Mercer’s 32rd Annual cost of Living survey, Kampala has been ranked among the cheapest cities to live in Africa and globally. The survey compares the cost of over 200 items in more than 200 cities, including food, housing, transport and entertainment.
Kampala comes in the 32nd place in Africa out of the ranked 48 countries and 186 globally. In the east and central region, Nairobi, is ranked as the most expensive city, ranked 17th in Africa and 111 globally. Rwanda’s Capital Kigali is Ranked 23 in Africa and 147 globally while Tanzania’s Dar Es Salaam is ranked 27th in Africa and 164 globally.
Luanda (1), the Angolan capital takes the top spot as the most expensive city for expatriates across Africa and globally despite its currency weakening against the US dollar.
57. More than 850 Ugandans repatriated
According to Alfred Nnam, the spokesperson for ministry of foreign affairs, a ministry responsible for Ugandans living abroad, Uganda will by the end of this week repatriate up to 853 persons who had earlier been locked down in different countries worldwide.
This revelation was made by Nnam made the reveltion on Thursday night at Entebbe International airport, while receiving two groups of Ugandans who touched down aboard the Ethiopian and Uganda airlines.
The two groups that arrived last night one whose passengers were aboard Ethiopian airlines, consisting of Ugandans from the Iceland, Ireland and the United Kingdom while the other group arrived aboard Uganda Airlines comprising of Ugandans from Zimbabwe, Lesotho, South Africa and Swaziland.
58. New Czech Republic consulate to strengthen relations with Uganda
In a bid to promote trade, investment, political, social and cultural relations, the government of Czech Republic has formally opened a new consulate in Uganda. The new consul to Kampala is Mr. Stephen Mpuuga Kaboyo.
Earlier on last week, Mr. Stephen presented his credentials to the state minister for international affairs Hon. Henry Oryem Okello during a colorful ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kampala. The ceremony was also attended by Czech Republic’s Head of Mission in Nairobi, Ambassador Martin Klepetko.
‘’We would like to develop our business, diplomatic ties and many other areas of cooperation. We are indeed ready to jump in whenever there are opportunities. We will bring in our companies and experts to develop the cooperation between the two countries.’’ Said Ambassador Klepetko.
59. Top 10 Africa Endangered Animals by numbers
With varied flora and Fauna, Africa is home to unique wildlife and physical features. However, with the ever-growing populations and their increasing demand for land, food and water, exacerbated by poaching, more and more species are becoming endangered and others may get extinct in the near future.
The Red List places species into one of nine categories annually: Not Evaluated, Data Deficient, Least Concern, Near Threatened, Vulnerable, Endangered, Critically Endangered, Extinct in the Wild and Extinct.
However, with great thanks to the foresight of conservationists past and present, many of the most endangered animals in Africa are being protected in reserves and national parks. The list below details all African animals that are currently classified as either critically endangered, endangered, or vulnerable.
60. Get to know reason why Airport slots can sell for millions of dollars
Airport slots are essential to operating an airline and can be highly valuable. For many airlines, slots are key assets, both from an operational and financial perspective. But what makes them valuable? Why do slots are some airports cost more than elsewhere? Is it just a set price, or is there more to the story? Let’s take a look.
What exactly is an airport slot? Slots can be described as permission granted to a specific airline by the airport operator. This guarantees the airline in question the permission to take off and land at the airport during a specified time.
Without a slot, an airline can have the best planes and pilots in the world, but they can’t access the airport in question. Of course, planes land and take-off, so you don’t just need one slot, you need
Uganda Airlines commercial flights resumption reactivated in August 2019 after almost 18 years since close of flight operations in the region and across continents. The Inaugural flight for the CRJ-900 Bombadier series was destination Kenya where the Airlines embarked on its first regional route landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and welcomed with a water salute.
Few months down the road, Covid-19 spread across the globe and affected the Aviation industry as many Countries closed Airports although Passenger flights were temporarily halted but Uganda Airlines after several discussions with Government, Repatriation and Cargo flights continued even during lockdown not forgetting flights for medical emergencies.
File Photo: Uganda Airlines 1st A330neo Airbus arriving at Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday prior to the delivery ceremony.
The Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Col. (RTD) Tom Butiime called upon the new 4th board of Directors appointed for the different roles at the Uganda Tourism Board to stand instrumental in the promotion of Uganda’s local domestic tourism product and also lay synergies for marketing destination Uganda across the region and beyond given that the Airport was reopening by 1st October.
The Minister made this call during the inauguration ceremony for the Uganda Tourism Board incoming 4th board of Directors held at Mestil hotel and Residences, Nsambya on Wednesday 30th September 2020.
The outgoing 3rd board of Directors included; Honorable Daudi Migereko (Chairperson), Ms Susan Muhwezi (Vice Chairperson Member board of Directors), Eddie Kirya (Head of tour operators), Mr Paul Mwanja, Prof. Suleiman Katende, Mr Chemongesi Sabira, Mr Bagnesi Birigwa, Alhaji Eng. Ayub Soma, Mr Ronald Kagwa, Ms Edith Kateme Kasajja, Prof. Tom Davis Waswa, Mr James and former Chief Executive Officer Mr Stephen Asiimwe and Ms Lilly Ajarova who also served as the previous member secretary of the board.
The newly appointed 4th Board of Directors effective 30th September 2020 comprises; Hon Daudi Migereko as the board chairman, Katende Suleiman (Representative for Uganda Tour Operators Association), Ms Susan Muhwezi (Representative for Hospitality Accommodation providers, Mr Kirya Eddie (Member Representative UTOA), Ms Susan Birigwa (Representative Private Aviation Industry), Mr Vivian Lyazzi (Member Representative Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities), Mr Mwanja Paul (Representative for Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development), Mr Chemongesi Sabira (Representative Uganda Wildlife Authority), Ronald Kagwa (Representative National Planning Authority), Alhajji Soma Baker (Representative Civil Aviation Authority), and Ms Lilly Ajarova as CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board.
63. flydubai answers back to intensification in travel from holidaymakers
More people are taking their first holiday of the year now than earlier in 2020
UAE budget airline flydubai is increasingly ferrying holidaymakers to exotic locations as tourism begins to resume in various markets.
When borders re-opened in the summer the first travellers were those visiting friends and relatives but now the carrier is rebuilding its leisure network and increasing frequencies on routes to locations.
“We initially saw our passengers travelling to see their family and friends,” said Hamad Obaidalla, chief commercial officer at flydubai. “As more countries have opened up for tourism we are now seeing more passengers travel for leisure to enjoy their first holiday of the year.”
64. Uganda partners with MTV Base Africa to hype her Tourism to the World through Music
Last held in the year 2016, Uganda comes after Kenya to host Africa’s biggest Entertainment iconic Awards – the MTV Base Africa Music Awards in the Eastern part of Africa.
Uganda’s Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has taken an extra milestone to market destination Uganda both on the Continent and at Global level through the biggest Music Awards on motherland Africa this time held in the only Pearl Of Africa – Uganda, as labeled by Winston Churchill centuries ago.
The announcement was made during a virtual press conference held at Mestil Hotel and Residences in Nsambya on Wednesday November 25th through a panel of discussion hosted by TV Host Douglas Lwanga as the panel comprised; The State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Hon. Godfrey Kiwanda Ssuubi, Uganda Tourism Board CEO – Ms Lilly Ajarova, Uganda’s music icons Bebe Cool and Sheebah Karungi.
The iconic awards will showcase African Talent and Creativity come February 20th 2021 as they will host a variety of musicians from across the African Continent and also attract global attention as all International and local Media will focus particularly on destination Uganda hence a great platform to market Uganda’s Tourism to the World.
65. Uganda Airlines opens up skies to Kinshasha, DR Congo with tri-weekly flights
Just after almost a year and a half since revival of Uganda’s National Carrier with the four Aircraft CRJ900 Bombardier series offering regional flights to seven regional domestic routes of; Nairobi, Bujumbura, Juba, Kilimanjaro, Mogadishu, Dar es Salaam and Mombasa from the Airlines official hub Entebbe International Airport till date
On December 10th 2020, Uganda Airlines took to its official Twitter Account and announced that the Airline has added Kinshasha as its 8th regional destination with three scheduled commercial passenger flights per week thereby making business, travel easy and bringing access and convenience for Ugandan travelers to the Democratic Republic of Congo for whether business or catching with family vice versa.
66. What are your Travel options if you test positive for Covid-19 before a flight?
Testing positive for COVID-19 before a trip can be a daunting challenge medically, but it also comes with many logistical hurdles. If abroad, where do you quarantine? If you’re at home, what happens to your bookings? Here’s a guide of what to do if you test positive before a flight.
67. Here’s to how British Airways prepares for Christmas
Historically the festive period is a cause for celebration for British Airways, as a surge of passengers board flights to travel home for Christmas. Unfortunately, this Christmas will be very different for the airline, exacerbated by the current travel restrictions affecting UK travelers. With this in mind, we decided to look back at British Airways in Christmases past.
LAPLAND, FINLAND: Andrea Hatfield (Cabin Crew) gets into the Christmas spirit onboard a special charter to Lapland from London Gatwick on 07 December 2015
68. UAE blocks Passenger flights as Emirates Airline and Etihad Airways retain UK Flights
The two Airlines confirm schedules to London remain unaffected but Abu Dhabi carriers reintroduces PCR test.
India and countries across the Gulf are among around 40 nations to have blocked flights coming from the UK amid fears of a new variant of the coronavirus which was first discovered in Britain.
69. Dubai Airshow organisers reaffirm market that Event is on come 2021
The 17th edition of the Dubai Airshow will return on 14-18 November 2021, organisers confirm.
The organisers of the Dubai Airshow have confirmed that the event is taking place as planned in November 2021 despite competitor airshows around the world cancelling and postponing their events next year.
The 17th edition of the Dubai Airshow will return on 14-18 November 2021, making it the “only airshow of its kind to take place in a live format”, according to its organisers, Tarsus F&E Middle East.
70. Covid-19: Hong Kong raises Quarantine requirement to three weeks
Hong Kong made waves with one of the strictest COVID-19-related quarantines in the world. Amid a recent growth in the number of cases in Hong Kong, all foreign arrivals must quarantine for a whopping 21 days, extending the previously-mandated 14-day quarantine by a week.
71. African Aviation to improve after COVID-19 believes Ethiopian
COVID-19 pandemic has had a general toll on the world’s economy. There has been diminutive growth of sectors including the aviation sector. This has suffered greatly given that no boarders were open for international flights during the pandemic peak.
However, with the easing of lockdowns with in different countries, a number of airlines have revamped their services. This has at least shined a ray of hope in the future of the aviation sector.
The acting Chief Commercial Officer at Africa’s largest airline, the Ethiopian, Esayas Woldemariam, believes there is still a bright future for African airlines.
72. Boeing 737 MAX on way to revamp after re-certification flight tests commence
Starting today 29 June 2020, Boeing aviators and test crew members from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have commenced on a three-day re-certification test exercise on the 737 MAX 7 air craft.
The test exercise will include crew running methodically scripted mid-air scenarios such as steep-banking turns, progressing to more extreme manoeuvres on a route primarily over Washington state from the Boeing Field near Seattle.
More so, the test includes touch-and-go landings at the eastern Washington airport in Moses Lake, and a path over the Pacific Ocean coastline, adjusting the flight plan and timing as needed for weather and other factors.
73. Conservation centres seek government support to feed animals
The COVID-19 pandemic seems to have not only affected the business community and tourism sector but also the conservation sector.
Following measures put in place by government to contain the spread of the coronavirus, the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre and Ngamba Chimpanzee sanctuary are now struggling to support the smooth running of its daily activities.
The centre’s Executive Director Dr James Musinguzi says they have now made a request to the government for support to ensure that animal welfare is taken care of. He says they have submitted a request of Shs1.5 billion to government through the National COVID 19 taskforce.
74. Covid-19 brings Uganda Airlines expansion strategy to an involuntary standstill
The Covid-19 pandemic has been of great impacted especially to the global air travel as countries have shut their airspace and imposed internal lockdowns seeing hardly no flights in and out countries. Uganda Airlines has not been left out. The coronavirus pandemic has thrown Uganda Airlines expansion strategy to a partial standstill. Earlier on, the airlines had expansion plans of having its carrier fly to nine new routes starting April 2020.
However, this will wait a little longer considering the impact and effects of the on-going corona virus pandemic that has seen the airline suspend all its functioning. The postponement comes at a time when Uganda Airlines had earlier on March 28, 2020 concluded all preliminary plans to commence on work at stake beginning with Kinshasa, Goma and Lubumbashi routes all in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
75. Entebbe Zoo to resume operations come July
It has been over three months since the government of Uganda closed down national parks and zoos from visitors as a measure to counter check the novel Corona Virus disease. As the world turns a leaf to the new normal, one of Uganda’s celebrated wildlife protected spaces, Entebbe Zoo, is slated to resume operations next month according to Dr. James Musinguzi the centre’s executive director.
According to Musinguzi, the wildlife center has made huge losses throughout the lockdown period. This has been because no visitors were visiting the centre thus limited operations around the site. More so, the center could no longer get money from gate-collection.
76. Fly Dubai marks 10 years with record 108% growth in passenger traffic between the UAE and Africa
Flydubai, a Dubai-based carrier celebrates carrying more than 70 million passengers since its inauguration in 2009. More than five million of these passengers were carried on its African routes. More so, the flydubai passenger traffic between the UAE and its African routes grew by 108% since 2015, a record improvement.
Flydubai’s first flight was 10 years ago when the carrier took off from Dubai International airport enroute to Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport, on 01 June 2009. This flight marked the beginning of a new period in the history of aviation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
77. Government halts repatriation of Ugandans to pave way for decongestion of quarantine centers
Starting August 25, 2020, the government of Uganda will halt the repatriation exercise of Ugandans stuck abroad due to the Corona virus lockdown. According to Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Judith Nabakooba the move is intended to pave way for decongestion of quarantine centers with claims that center organizers are getting overwhelmed by the quarantined numbers well as new cases confirmed continue to grow worrying.
According to the minister, since July when the first group of Ugandans were repatriated, over 2970 have returned home.
78. New East African Tour Guides Portal and mobile application set to improve tourism around the Region
As the region fights hard to revamp tourism back to normal, a new Tour Guides web Portal and mobile application has been introduced and is set to contribute big toward reframing tourism.
The regal ruler of Busoga Kingdom Kyabazinga William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV is this month expected to move in to his new official palace located on Igenge Hill, Bugembe Town Council in Jinja District. The ‘new’ palace has been vacant for about six years, purportedly due to lack of furniture despite having been earlier renovated by the government of Uganda.
Recently, Uganda tour operators received training on how to use the Portal to boost tourism, and market East Africa as one leading tourism destination worldwide. The new East African Tour Guides web Portal and mobile application was designed by the Uganda Safari Guides Association with a $50,000 funding from GIZ under the IIDEA program. The web portal is set to link tourists, tour operators, and tour guides within East Africa.
79. ‘New’ home for the Kyabazinga of Busoga
Through a royal statement, all necessary arrangements have been undertaken for the Kyabazinga to occupy the palace come later this month.
80. Parliament of Uganda passes 15 new cities
The parliament of Uganda passed a total of 15 new cities that had earlier been seconded to be upgraded to city statuses. The towns to be elevated to city status over four years period are Jinja, Mbarara, Fort Portal, Masaka, Mbale, Arua, Gulu, Hoima, Lira, Soroti, Entebbe, Moroto, Nakasongola, Kabale and Wakiso. These were for a long time investigated on to see whether they met the minimum requirements to earn the city status.
With a majority of 312 votes out of 313, MPs voted for the Motion for resolution of Parliament on alteration of boundaries under Art 179(1) A of the Constitution and declaration of cities under Section 7(2a) of the Local Gov’t Act.
81. Top 10 Real Estate Development Companies in Uganda
1.Crane Management Coming top of the list is Crane Management. With head offices located on 4th Floor Crane chambers, Kampala Road, Kampala, Uganda, Crane Management Services is Real Estate Company in Uganda offering Real Estate management, Development, Marketing and Consultancy Service. With roots grounded in the 90’s, the company has been part of real estate greatness definition in Uganda. The company continues to set pace for real estate development in the country with a number of real estates all around the main city Kampala and its outskirts.
82. Shs16b three-star hotel to boost Uganda’s Tourism
Over the years, a number of infrastructures have been setup to aid on the improvement and development of tourism and tourism potentials in Uganda. Currently, the construction of a Shs16b three-star hotel at Uganda Hotel and Tourism Training Institute (UHTTI) in Jinja District is nearing completion, with works reportedly at 80 per cent.
Two years back, a team led by the then Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Prof Ephraim Kamuntu, attended a ground-breaking ceremony to commence the construction of the hotel at the institute. The team included government officials and other partners. However, the construction of the grand hotel was supposed to be completed within 12 months.
83. What you ought to know about the great Silverbacks of southwestern Uganda
Uganda boosts of more than half the all-living population of mountain gorillas worldwide. The fascinating rare species share an almost similar DNA with the humans thus often termed as our close relatives. With reference to this, they often exhibit more human like behaviors in their natural habitats. In Uganda, the gorillas can be best tracked and seen in the southwestern part of the country covered by the Mgahinga and Bwindi national conservation area.
On the centrally, these apes have been listed among the world’s primates under critical threat. Currently, the mountain gorillas are the largest living apes. They are covered with black fur, have a broad chest and arms most especially a fully grown male gorilla popularly known as a silverback.
Rafiki, deceased 25-year-old male silverback gorilla, also head of a 17 member gorilla group who was hugely popular with tourists
84. Dung beetles: The Unsung Wildlife Heroes
Ever wondered that great Africa’s wildlife unsung hero, possibly not. They could be looked at as a dirty species but wait, they could be having a higher IQ than most of the known wildlife. The feed on excrete material, to be precise, feaces. The unsung heroes of Africa have to be dung beetles. Why? These little rollers literally live on poop and can roll dung up to 50 times their body weight in a straight line, despite all obstacles.
They are a true definition of recyclers of the bush. With six legs and long flying wings folded under hard, protective covers, dung beetles are the forest sweepers. A recent scientific discovery explained that they use the Milky Way as a compass and the only known non-vertebrate animal to navigate and orient itself using the Milky Way.
85. Top 10 Bus companies in Uganda
1. Jaguar Executive Coaches
The entirely red pimped coaches have been in services for a long period of time and are one of the most comfortable buses to travel with especially with their executive service. They are majorly international carriers and transverse the country majorly towards the southwestern route through areas like Masaka, Mbarara, Ntungamo, Kabale, Kigali and other cities.
86. Top 10 Men’s Football Teams in Uganda
1.Kampala Capital City Authority FC Nicknamed the ‘Kasasiro Boys” (translated to as ‘Garbage collectors’ in Luganda language), Kampala Capital City Authority is one of the oldest traditional clubs having been founded on 12th April 1963. The team plays in the top Uganda football team and on the continental level where it has registered consistent improvement over the last appearances. There have been much improvements within the team to effectively compete at the top most African level. This has seen the team record improvements in both the team’s performances and administration. The team comes in our top spot due to its record winnings as listed below; Uganda Super League 13, Uganda Cup 10, CECAFA Clubs cup 2
87. Top 10 Night Clubs to visit in Uganda
1.Guvnor, Kampala Topping our list is Club Guvnor. Located in Uganda’s capital Kampala, it ranks as the finest Nightclub one can catch a moment from. The club has been a process of modernisation with expansion from Kololo Night club to Ange-Noir Discotheque to Ange-Noir Executive to Ange Mystique and to currently Guvnor. The number one Nightspot started operations in 1967 as ‘Kololo Night Club’. The club runs weekly night themes at which glamour and happiness feel the entire space. Some of their themes include; ‘Saturday Night Fever’ on every Saturday of the week, ‘Oldies Night’ on every first Friday of the month, ‘Guvnor DJ Snap Off’, every Third Friday of the month and the famous ‘Friday Night live’, that happens every 4th Friday of the month.
88. Uber suspends her services in Uganda upon COVID-19 crackdown directives
Following a couple of government directives in a bid to combat the spread and prevalence of the deadly Coronavirus disease, transport industry giants, Uber have pended their operations until further notice. This was in line with the presidential directive restricting the movement of both private and public vehicles.
In a statement issued on the 30th of March, the company announced its temporary shutdown. This was after the president had announced some additional measures meant to restrain the spread of Covid-19. The statement released to Uber customers by email read in part as below;
89. Uganda Airlines to take to the skies, plans underway for repatriation flight
Over the past months, Ugandans that are stuck outside the country have faced failed and un yielding repatriation promises from government. However, starting this week, all plans are under way to see commencement of repatriation of Ugandans stuck abroad because of the Corona Virus pandemic with Uganda Airlines slated to fly home some from South Africa.
This comes aboard after several days of engine testing of the four new Uganda Airlines Bombardier planes for the first time after three months grounded. With reference to Images from Flightradar24.com, a global flight tracking service that provides you with real-time information about thousands of aircraft around the world, showed the four planes – Flight 5XKNP, 5XEQU, 5XKOB and another that did not have a call sign airborne in Ugandan airspace for an average of 40 minutes.
Uganda Airlines Victoria Towers Office at Jinja Road.
Due to the uneven income strings within the country, the after effects of Corona Virus pandemic especially on Uganda’s economy are starting to emerge. Some companies within the country have taken decisive measures to match up the economic condition by laying off and calling off employees’ contracts. Recently, the government Uganda through her stake holders, called for compassion as business enterprises started terminating work contracts of their employees as a result of what they call negative business impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
91. UGANDA CULTURES; Why the Itesos are a popular tribe in the Eastern region
The Iteso (or people of Teso) are a Nilo-Hamites ethnic group in eastern Uganda and western Kenya. Teso refers to the traditional homeland of the Iteso, and Ateso is their language. Iteso is plural (two or more people from Teso), Etesot and Atesot are singular. Etesot is for male person from Teso and Atesot is feminine. Iteso are believed to have migrated from Abyssinia (Ethiopia).
In Uganda, Iteso inhabit the districts of Soroti, Kumi, Katakwi, Amuria, Bukedea, Serere, Ngora, Pallisa, Kaberamaido, Tororo, Kapelebyong and Kalaki. Iteso are known to be a very generous and hospitable group of people. The cultural drink of Iteso is ‘ajon’, commonly consumed in local ceremonies and social gatherings. They practice crop and animal farming and attach great value to land.
92. Uganda and Tanzania among top tourist exporting countries to Kenya – Report
Kenya has remained a major tourist delicacy among the East Africans who fancy tourism and travel. According to statistical data released in the Tourism Sector Performance Report 2019, the East African countries of Uganda and Tanzania continue to be a major hub for tourists that visit Kenya after the USA.
The report indicates that, Kenya received 245,437 tourists from America in 2019, the highest from one country, while Uganda and Tanzania were second and third with 223,010 and 193,740 respectively.
In a move to cop up with the shifting times in the world of travel, yesterday 30th August, United Airlines announced a “permanent” elimination on reservation change fees for domestic economy- and premium-cabin tickets and opened free same-day standby to all customers.
The amended moves come after the Chicago-based airline and peers had temporarily suspended change fees earlier this year in response to the industry downturn, a move that had long been called for by customers.
Prior to the change, United charged $200 for changes to domestic travel plans and $75 to standby for other flights.
Cornwell Muleya, Acting Chief Executive Officer at Uganda National Airlines Company
94. UWEC seeks Shs1.5b to feed animals, birds
The management of Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), commonly known as Entebbe Zoo, has appealed to government to provide them Shs1.5b to feed animals under captivity.
This comes after President Museveni mid last month declared a nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of Covid-19. The UWEC executive director, Mr James Musinguzi, said they submitted their request for funding through the national Covid- 19 Taskforce.
95. Visit Uganda: Wildlife sculptures unveiled on Kira Road, a Tourism Street
As Uganda wildlife fights back to resume normal business, a work that started simple has come to a conclusion as new sculptures have been elected and unveiled along Kira Road, on of the designated Tourism streets.
In a ground breaking ceremony last evening, the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities together with the Uganda Tourism Board, Uganda Wildlife Authority and KCCA unveiled what they named as the Wildlife street in Kampala.
The new named tourism street is located along Old Kiira road and has 11 sculptures from Mulago roundabout to Kira road police station of wild animals and can be viewed while on your visit around Uganda’s capital Kampala.
Uganda Tourism stake holders pose for a photo during the unveiling
96. Viva Cheptegei: Ugandan ‘Golden Boy’ smashes 16 year old 5000m world record
Joshua Cheptegei is yet again a champion after he broke the men’s 5000m world record in athletics’ delayed Diamond League season opener in Monaco in front of spectators, with fans allowed in in limited numbers.
The 23-year-old ‘Golden Boy’ crossed the finish line in 12 minutes 35.36 seconds, 1.99 seconds faster than Kenenisa Bekele’s previous mark of 12:37.35 set in May 2004.
It was an outstanding performance from Cheptegei, whose own previous personal best was 12:57.41. The Ugandan took the lead roughly mid-way through the race, and kept his lead at the 3000m and 4000m marks.
97. Major Threats to The Gorillas’ Existence
Classified by the International Union for the conservation of Nature as endangered, mountain gorillas also known as the silverbacks are a rare species that only inhabit in the southwestern part of Uganda with a shared population in Rwanda and DRC.
Most of the gorilla subspecies are censoriously under threat and face a huge risk of extinction in the near future unless dire measures are undertaken.
With the previous ‘Gorilla Boom’ reported in the number of mountain gorillas living with in Mgahinga and Bwindi National Park during the past years shines a ray of hope towards the future of these economically important but endangered wild species. The achievement in growing numbers of mountain gorillas unlike other gorilla subspecies can be accredited to the implausible conservation work done by the respective wildlife agencies.
Mutagamba is one of roughly 900 mountain gorillas left in the world. The species is critically endangered. (Photo by Norma Meyer)
98. World Bank offers $148m to Uganda for protection of her tourism sites and forest management
In a bid to support Uganda’s tourism, the World Bank has funded up to a fee of $148.2 m to empower Ugandan tourism enrich forest management and protect her tourism sites. In a statement issued on yesterday, the World bank stated that around $78.2m of the financing is a concessional loan, while $70m is a grant that includes $58m for refugees and host communities.
The issued funds will service efforts towards protecting tourism sites within the Albertine region and the refugee-hosting areas in northern and western Uganda. According to World Bank, the Albertine region is a pivotal part in Uganda’s tourism industry and thus contributes largely to the country’s economy as regards foreign exchange earnings and employment of citizens.
99. UWEC unveils monument in memory of the fallen chimp ‘Zakayo’
The minister of Tourism, wildlife and Antiquities Hon. Col. (Rtd) Tom R Butime in company of other tourism and Uganda Wildlife stakeholders on Tuesday this week unveiled a sculpture commissioned by Center (UWEC) to celebrate the legacy of Zakayo, a fallen chimp at UWEC that had proved to be a darling to visitors over the years.
The minister recognized Zakayo as a primate conservation ambassador in Uganda. He was on his maiden visit as Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities having replaced former minister Hon. Ephraim Kamuntu. The minister also commended UWEC’s commitment to wildlife conservation education and encouraged the institution to breed species which are at risk of extinction in the wild.
100. Bush War trek slated to grow into a tourism venture
Tourism state Minister Kiwanda, who over the years has ventured into numerous tourism potentials that have at times erupted criticisms by some citizens such as the controversial “Miss Curvy” Tourism competition and the marketing of Uganda Lorex, seems to never run short of tourism ideas.
Following the Africa Kwetu trek that involved President Museveni, government officials together with well-wishers through the juggles of Luwero, the previously prearranged march aimed at retracing the steps of his guerrilla forces would be turned into a tourism venture with at least three museums on the 195km route according to Mr Godfrey Kiwanda, the State minister for Tourism.
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