General Managers in Uganda’s hospitality industry have called on the government to give them a greater role in the country’s socio-economic transformation, saying the sector requires a clear policy framework to unlock its full potential.
The call was made during the launch of the Hotel General Managers Association of Uganda (HOGMAU), a newly established umbrella body that brings together hotel General Managers from across the country to promote professionalism, collaboration and sustainable growth in the hospitality industry.
The association says its formation was inspired by President Yoweri Museveni’s “Kisanja Hakuna Kulala” campaign, which encourages hard work, productivity and active participation in national development.
Speaking at the launch, HOGMAU President David Mayega said the association’s objective is not to seek salary increments or personal benefits, but to advocate for a well-defined policy framework that will strengthen and coordinate the hotel industry.
Mayega said such a framework would enable hotel managers to contribute more effectively to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation by improving standards, promoting professionalism and enhancing service delivery across the sector.
He noted that HOGMAU brings together General Managers from hotels across the country who are committed to supporting Uganda’s development agenda through a more organized and coordinated hospitality industry.
According to Mayega, the hospitality sector plays a critical role in tourism, employment creation, investment promotion and revenue generation, making it an important contributor to the country’s economic growth.
He said greater collaboration between government and industry stakeholders would help position Uganda’s hospitality sector to better respond to emerging opportunities while addressing operational challenges facing hotel operators.
The association also pledged to work closely with government agencies, tourism stakeholders and the private sector to promote best practices, build the capacity of hotel managers and improve the competitiveness of Uganda’s hospitality industry.
HOGMAU expressed confidence that with appropriate policy support and institutional recognition, hotel General Managers can make an even greater contribution to national development by strengthening service standards, attracting investment and supporting the growth of Uganda’s tourism sector.
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