My Journey in Tourism: Part II
When I lost the job, I returned to the streets, uncertain of what lay ahead. Within about six months, I became involved in establishing the Uganda Government and NGO Drivers Association (UGANGODA) and served as the pioneering General Secretary. During this time, I attended an “Advanced Motoring Techniques” driving course offered by Uganda Police officers from Kibuli Police Headquarters. It was a very practical course, and I scored second with 89%.
Another opportunity arose when I applied for the position of driver guide and was interviewed by Abercrombie & Kent. Most of the driver guides I found there were senior and some had come from Kenya. Due to my youth, flexibility, and honesty, I quickly gained favor with my supervisors. These supervisors have remained friends and are still active in the sector. Sam runs a lovely lodge in Kibale, George manages a tour company, and our Directors operate The Boma Hotel, where I continue to supply quality clients.
My departure from Abercrombie & Kent was linked to my involvement in starting the Uganda Tourist Driver Guides Association, which was perceived as a pressure group. Many tour operators opposed it when I announced its formation at a Ministry meeting at Fairway Hotel in early 1996. Despite the resistance, a government official, Mr. Moses Ndizzala, defended our right to organize. Moses remains a friend to this day. I was eventually dismissed for a minor infraction, which I knew was a pretext, given the opposition to the association. Despite this setback, I maintained strong connections with guides from the company, as one was the Chairman of our association and I was the Secretary.
Life in the city became challenging without a job. My wife and I decided to return to the village, allowing me to struggle alone in the city until I found work. A long-time friend, Mr. Byaruhanga Vincent, graciously hosted me during this difficult period. I took on household chores, ensuring I was helpful while staying with them.
An advertisement for Uganda Electricity Board field drivers appeared, and I applied, was shortlisted, and admitted. However, this opportunity coincided with an offer from Mantana Africa Safaris, which I chose to accept.
My New Job at Mantana Africa Safaris
At Mantana, driver guides were expected to repair vehicles, drive, and assist at camps after dropping off clients. This was not what I believed guides should do. Often, I was found under a vehicle reading a book about birds or mammals, which made me a perceived threat. The company was well-organized, and we could see the number of trips booked on the safari chart.
My first safari with Mantana was successful. It was a group of Adventure Women led by the late Susan Eckert and we had three safari Toyota jeeps. This group was so good that with my skills in socializing with people, I connected well with Susan and Ellen Franks who has remained a very good friend since 1998. Ellen has supported several young Ugandans who now have jobs. She even visited me during my first trip to the USA in 2006 for the American Birding Convention in Bangor, Maine. I have visited her and meet her family members.
The second trip, however, became my last at Mantana. I was assigned to train with my immediate supervisor, Emmy, on a tour. Although I carefully followed his instructions, the situation turned sour. We arrived at Bwindi Buhoma, but instead of sharing a room, I was left to fend for myself. On the journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Emmy drove ahead, leaving me behind with a mechanical issue. I managed to repair the vehicle and arrived later in the evening, using a different gate and paying the entrance fee with my allowance. Emmy was furious, claiming he had paid for my entrance elsewhere.
Despite this, I continued to prioritize client satisfaction. The clients consistently preferred to go on drives with me, which further strained my relationship with Emmy. After a particularly successful game drive where we spotted lions and leopards, the clients' enthusiastic feedback increased Emmy’s insecurity.
In Kibale, the tension escalated. After the chimpanzee tracking, a couple gave me a bag of clothes and an envelope, asking me to distribute the clothes to those in need. This gesture of appreciation from clients only heightened the existing friction with Emmy.
Conclusion
My journey in the tourism sector has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. The experiences, connections, and lessons learned have shaped my career and resilience. Stay tuned for Part III, where I will continue to share my story and the developments that followed
@wekesa_amos Mr @wekesa_amos the conversation is wao. I believe the man was challenged by an African who travel for business than for politics & recruitment reasons. This makes me to struggle as I find many positive people to stay focused to once travel for my business than other weak reasons
Kamya Isma is that man I trained and who loved what I gave him under @UmarsacsR as well making sure he becomes a leader in his guiding position. He is doing best so far
Join our trainings which are 100% practical and values are professional
I met Onyango Jerry the zoo manager at @_Kavumba_ and we shared some guiding principles & organization as well proceeded to zoo to have some identification of different primates,birds, reptiles & mammals at the site to our students so that they give the best in their working tim
A Tour guide who can’t manage time and who can’t look your profile just know you lack more skills of being the best. The characteristics moves with you if you choose to join @UmarsacsR TRAININGS.
Rate my appearance in the field and do some photographical interpretation
Religious Tourism offers an opportunity to connect with one's faith, gain a deeper understanding of different religious traditions, and explore the historical and architectural marvels associated with these faiths.