Project scope

Horwath HTL was engaged to develop and implement a certification framework in Uganda, rooted in Fair Trade and sustainability principles. The initiative aimed to mitigate the social, cultural, and environmental impacts of tourism while ensuring equitable benefits for the communities whose land, labour, culture, and resources support the sector.

Our process began with a thorough assessment of Uganda’s tourism landscape, examining existing practices and their effects on people and places. This analysis provided critical insights into the challenges faced by local communities and the gaps in current systems that could be addressed through a robust certification framework.

Drawing on global best practices, we designed a certification scheme tailored to Uganda’s unique context. The framework incorporated key Fair Trade principles, such as ethical labour practices, equitable resource sharing, and cultural preservation, alongside sustainability standards addressing environmental stewardship and responsible business operations.

To ensure relevance and inclusivity, we conducted extensive stakeholder engagement sessions with government bodies, tourism operators, community representatives, and civil society organisations. This collaborative approach helped refine the framework to address the diverse needs of stakeholders and promote widespread acceptance.

The implementation phase involved training tourism operators and community stakeholders on certification criteria, compliance requirements, and monitoring processes. We also developed tools for regular assessments and provided guidance on marketing certified products and services to appeal to conscious travellers.

The certification framework is a step toward creating a more inclusive and sustainable tourism industry in Uganda. By holding operators accountable and prioritising community benefits, the scheme enhances the sector’s long-term viability while empowering local people to actively participate in and profit from tourism activities. Horwath HTL’s expertise ensured that the framework aligns with international standards while being deeply rooted in Uganda’s social, cultural, and environmental context.

Τοποθεσία του έργου

Uganda/Kampala, Uganda