Tourism Minister Susan Nakawuki Nsambu joined Mbale City leaders, local officials, residents, and tourism stakeholders in a National Cleaning Day initiative on September 27, part of preparations for the 2026 World Tourism Day celebrations. The event, held in Mbale City, aimed to promote environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism by uniting government representatives, community members, and tourism partners. Nsambu emphasized that maintaining clean environments is essential for tourism growth and community well-being, stating, "Tourism begins with the environment. When our cities, communities, and tourist destinations are clean, we create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors while improving the quality of life for our people."
Hon. Lydia Wanyoto, a participating official, highlighted the importance of community involvement in urban cleanliness, noting, "National Cleaning Day reminds us that keeping our communities clean is a shared responsibility. Government can provide leadership and support, but lasting change depends on the active involvement of every citizen." The exercise underscored the connection between cleanliness, public health, and tourism development, with stakeholders advocating for sustained efforts beyond one-time events. Local leaders urged Mbale residents to treat cleanliness as a daily practice rather than a periodic activity, citing the city's tourism potential and the need to protect public spaces for visitors and residents alike.
The National Cleaning Day initiative aligned with the 2026 World Tourism Day theme of responsible, inclusive, and sustainable tourism. Tourism officials, local leaders, and communities called for stronger partnerships to advance conservation, environmental protection, and tourism development across Uganda. The event also reflected broader efforts to address challenges like illegal dumping, as seen in Hoima’s deployment of garbage scouts ahead of AFCON, and the integration of gorilla conservation with health and livelihoods in Bwindi. Stakeholders emphasized the need for public engagement in preserving Uganda’s tourism destinations for domestic and international visitors.
As Uganda prepares for World Tourism Day, the cleaning drive in Mbale exemplified a collaborative approach to balancing tourism growth with environmental stewardship. The initiative highlighted the role of government, communities, and private sector partners in fostering sustainable tourism practices. With the FHS Africa Summit slated for 2027 and ongoing investments in hospitality and technology, Uganda’s tourism sector continues to evolve, prioritizing both economic development and ecological preservation.