The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), in partnership with the Uganda High Commission in Canada, is actively participating in the IMPACT Sustainability Travel & Tourism Summit 2026, held in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. The summit, hosted at the Victoria Conference Centre from January 26 to 28, 2026, brings together global tourism stakeholders committed to advancing sustainable and regenerative practices in the travel industry.
A Global Forum for Sustainable Tourism Dialogue
The IMPACT Summit is an annual gathering designed to move beyond traditional discussions of sustainability toward practical, regenerative solutions that support environmental stewardship, cultural integrity, and community wellbeing. Since its establishment, the event has united destination marketing organizations, tourism operators, government representatives, Indigenous tourism leaders, conservation organizations, media professionals, and technology experts from around the world.
In 2026, the summit places a strong emphasis on topics such as:
- Regenerative tourism approaches – positioning travel as a tool for ecological and community restoration.
- The role of technology and artificial intelligence in shaping how destinations are discovered and trusted.
- Community-led tourism and meaningful visitor experiences that go beyond infrastructure to connect with people and culture.
An optional pre-conference “Day of IMPACT” on January 25, 2026 provided delegates with firsthand exposure to sustainable tourism practices across Vancouver Island, showcasing real-world examples of environmentally responsible businesses and community partnerships.
Key Insights from the Summit
Over the course of the summit, one clear theme has emerged: Canadian travellers and industry stakeholders place a high value on authentic connections with people, nature, and culture. Delegates have emphasized that sustainability and regenerative practices must be genuinely reflected in destination experiences, not just in marketing or infrastructure.
Discussions have highlighted:
- The importance of community leadership in tourism development, ensuring host communities benefit socially and economically.
- Honest engagement on climate impact and resilience as a key tourism value.
- The need for meaningful experiences that enrich visitors while preserving cultural heritage and environmental integrity.
Reinforcing Uganda’s Tourism Agenda
UTB’s participation in the summit underscores Uganda’s commitment to strengthening its tourism sector around values that resonate with global market trends: authentic cultural engagement, community benefit, and care for nature. Conversations at the summit are aligned with Uganda’s strategic priorities to position the country as a sustainable and competitive tourism destination that delivers exceptional and meaningful experiences for responsible travellers.
By engaging with international peers and thought leaders, Uganda continues to expand its partnerships, share insights on community-oriented tourism, and reinforce its role in shaping the future of global sustainable tourism.
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