By In a sweeping crackdown that has rattled Uganda’s tourism sector, the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) has suspended the operating licenses of 18 tour companies over suspected fraudulent activities. The affected companies have been ordered to cease all operations with immediate effect as investigations begin.
The move, described by UTB officials as “precautionary but firm,” targets both high-profile operators and lesser-known entrants in the travel industry.
Among the suspended firms are long-standing names such as Makaayi Tours and Travel, Vendoro Safaris, Travel Times, Gorilla Holidays (U) Limited, and Karumuna Safaris Limited—all known for organizing safaris, gorilla trekking, and luxury travel experiences in Uganda.
Other companies affected include:
- Akia Quest Tours
- Varitus Resourcing (U) Ltd
- Saso Uganda Safaris Limited
- Primate Journeys Africa Limited
- Mohan Tours and Travel
- Gotovate Tours and Travel
Additional companies named are:
Dream Bandas Uganda Limited, Birchill Expeditions Limited, Azas Safaris U Ltd, Dorabo Tours and Travel Ltd, Brooklyn Safari Limited, All Budget Gorilla Safaris Ltd, and Beyond Frontiers Travel (U) Ltd.
“We’re drawing a red line,” said Dr. Simplicious Gessa, UTB’s Public Relations Manager.
“Fraudulent actors will not be allowed to stain Uganda’s tourism reputation. We’re acting decisively to protect both local and international tourists.”
This latest action follows a similar suspension last month involving Exclusive Africa Safaris, a company run by Alex Mango, which was also accused of deceptive practices.
UTB says these suspensions are part of a broader effort to eliminate rogue operators who have exploited unsuspecting clients, damaging trust in Uganda’s tourism sector.
“It’s not just about shutting down companies,” Dr. Gessa emphasized.
“It’s about cleaning house and rebuilding confidence.”
The board has strongly advised travelers, agents, and partners to avoid doing business with any of the blacklisted companies until investigations are concluded.
While the tourism sector is welcoming the crackdown as a necessary clean-up, industry observers warn it could reveal deeper flaws in the regulation and vetting of tour operators in Uganda.
