Kisoro District, Uganda – Communities residing along the shores of Lake Mutanda are voicing their concerns over their alleged exclusion from revenue-sharing arrangements related to tourism activities on the lake. They contend that this lack of benefit is adversely affecting their livelihoods.
According to local residents, the income generated from various tourist activities on Lake Mutanda, including canoeing, boat excursions, fishing, and swimming, is substantial. Despite living and working in close proximity to the lake, these communities feel they are not seeing any tangible benefits from this revenue.
Ntabondimu Francis, the Local Council one (LC1) Chairperson of Taaba Village, argues that implementing a fair revenue-sharing mechanism would significantly improve the livelihoods of local residents. He believes it would also foster greater community involvement in tourism and encourage more sustainable practices within the area.
Echoing this sentiment, Matsiko David, the Local Council two (LC2) Chairperson of Mbuga Parish, expressed his frustration with what he described as the district authorities’ neglect of the community.
He emphasized that many residents were previously evicted from the lake reserve, which negatively impacted their access to agricultural land. Mr. Matsiko believes that compensation through a share of the tourism revenue could have mitigated the difficulties faced by those who were displaced.
However, John Nyakahuma, the Chief Administrative Officer of Kisoro District, defended the existing system. He stated that sub-counties bordering Lake Mutanda do receive revenue through local service taxes, which he argues indirectly benefits the local communities.
He further clarified that revenue sharing from tourism income is distinct from the taxes collected from lakeside establishments such as hotels.
