Assessment of the role of Uganda wildlife conservation education center in promoting green tourism awareness in Uganda.

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Center (UWEC) in promoting green tourism awareness and identified challenges faced by tourists visiting the center. The research specifically documented the strategies employed by UWEC to foster awareness of sustainable practices, assessed the effectiveness of these strategies, and examined the challenges encountered in promoting green tourism. Data was collected through surveys administered to 81 tourists and interviews with 8 key informants, including UWEC staff and tour operators. Findings indicated that UWEC employed several strategies including educational programs, eco-friendly infrastructure, and community partnerships to raise awareness about green tourism among visitors, with 68% of tourists reporting increased environmental awareness. However, challenges such as limited financial resources reported by 75% of key informants, insufficient staff training, and weak partnerships with environmental organizations hindered the effective promotion of green tourism initiatives. Tourists also reported specific difficulties, including long distances between attractions (54%), the absence of tour guides (42%), and perceived price discrimination (33%), which negatively impacted their experience. To enhance green tourism awareness, the study recommended increasing the number of tour guides, improving transportation options, and incorporating practical learning experiences. Addressing these challenges is crucial for UWEC to foster a greater understanding of and engagement with green tourism among visitors. In conclusion, while UWEC employed diverse strategies to raise awareness about green tourism, the effectiveness varied, highlighting areas for improvement. To strengthen their efforts, the study recommended seeking partnerships for financial support, improving staff training, showcasing eco-friendly initiatives, and engaging local communities. Implementing feedback mechanisms and establishing transparent pricing structures were also advised to enhance visitor satisfaction and drive future engagement