STAKEHOLDERS in the tourism industry have been enlivened to develop eco-tourism because the demand for it has gone up all over the world.
Yakobo Moyini, a consultant for bio-trade programme under the Uganda Exports Promotion Board (UEPB) said recently that eco-tourism was important because it contributes to the conservation of bio-diversity.
Demand for eco-tourism is on the rise because of the growing aging population in the developed world where most of our tourists come from.
Moyini said while presenting his assessment on eco-tourism for the bio-trade programme that there is need for enriching vacations, the outdoors and nature.
Eco-tourism was moving away from a niche market and was draw towards today’s desk bound society because of the need for physical activity.

Moyini said projections for the tourism industry show that by 2010, the gross output from tourism would be at $7.2 trillion and $305m for job creation. But this would only be achieved if we develop eco-tourism. Eco-tourism is ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary locus on experiencing natural areas that advances environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation.

Eco-tourism is not a segment in its purest sense, it does not exist, the only challenge is to develop and market .

Moyini said there was need to improve visitor statistics, diversify the range of accommodation inside and outside tourist attractions and promote environmentally sound concepts to capture eco-tourists. He said tourists should not be disappointed with poor products and services.

Uganda tourism news