Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) CEO Lilly Ajarova commended the work two Uganda lodges have done to achieve the FIT-Engaged award for sustainable practices. She talked about the importance of sustainable tourism for the future of the country’s tourism sector, saying:
“The recognition is a testament to the country’s commitment to support sustainable tourism, community empowerment, and environmental eco-friendly practices. It also highlights Uganda’s progress in the development of responsible tourism, where businesses and communities work together to create meaningful and lasting experiences for visitors and nationals alike. With the increasing market demand for travel experiences aligned with sustainability principles, now is the time for the tourism sector to come together and position destination Uganda accordingly. UTB is proud of Adrift River Camp and Lemala Wildwaters Lodge for this achievement as pioneers of this award, which should inspire other tourism businesses to follow suit.”
This FTT-Engaged award came about through a collaboration with Enabel, the Kingdom of Belgium’s development agency that has been a strong advocate for responsible tourism in Uganda.
Adrift River Club and Lemala Wildwaters Lodge have become the first tourism businesses in Uganda to achieve a significant milestone in their Fair Trade Tourism (FTT) journey. Both lodges have successfully passed an independent audit of their operations, earning the “FTT-Engaged” award—a prestigious recognition for meeting over 50 rigorous criteria designed to promote responsible and sustainable tourism practices in Uganda.
The FTT-Engaged award is an entry-level certification that recognizes businesses that demonstrate strong commitments to social, environmental, and economic sustainability.
Audited operational areas include fair wages and working conditions, environmental impact management, community involvement, and the promotion of local cultural heritage.The award emphasizes the active engagement of both guests and staff in sustainable tourism practices.
Enabel’s Project Manager for the Social Protection and Decent Work Project, Lucie Carlier, stated: “We are proud to support Uganda’s Fair Trade Tourism initiative by promoting responsible tourism practices that not only safeguard the rich natural and cultural heritage but also ensure that local communities reap the socio-economic benefits of tourism. This milestone achieved by Adrift River Camp and Lemala Wildwaters Lodge demonstrates the positive impact that sustainable tourism can have. We are excited to continue working together to position Uganda as a leader in sustainable tourism within Africa and beyond.”
About the Sustainable Winners
Both Adrift River Club and Lemala Wildwaters Lodge share a deep commitment to the communities and environments in which they operate. Through responsible tourism practices, they strive to create meaningful, lasting impacts that support local development and conservation efforts. To learn more about their community and conservation initiatives, visit www.lemalacamps.com/community-conservation.
Lemala Wildwaters Lodge: A Sanctuary on the Nile
Lemala Wildwaters Lodge is located on a private island in the heart of the Nile River, offering guests unparalleled views of the river’s powerful rapids. This eco-luxury retreat is a haven for nature lovers, featuring abundant birdlife from over 1,000 species and a variety of exhilarating outdoor adventures. The lodge prioritizes sustainability and community-based initiatives, ensuring that both the environment and local communities benefit from tourism.
Rebecca Phillips, Guest Experience Manager of Lemala Camps & Lodges, expressed her excitement about this achievement: “We are thrilled to have completed this first step towards full FTT Certification. We pride ourselves on our commitment to our places, our people, and our environment wherever we operate. We truly aim to be ahead of the curve in all that we do. FTT has been an incredible partner in guiding us to achieve this milestone in Uganda.”
Adrift River Club: A Gateway to Nature and Culture
Nestled among the lush trees bordering the iconic Nile River, Adrift River Club offers a unique opportunity to explore Uganda’s natural wonders. Just a five-minute walk from the stunning Kalagala Waterfall viewpoint, the camp is an ideal base for nature lovers. Guests can enjoy activities such as rafting, kayaking, and birdwatching while sampling fresh, sustainably caught fish from the Nile. With a focus on community engagement, the camp is deeply committed to providing employment for people from the local area.