The Victoria Forest Resort has come a long way since it first opened its doors in 2011. Back then, it was known as Ssese Palm Beach and had pretty basic accommodations. But thanks to some serious renovations in 2018, it transformed into the luxurious haven it is today.
Now, with 50 stylish rooms, a cool beach bar, and wellness centres, it attracts visitors from all over the world. This incredible transformation was the vision of Ugandan businessman Christopher Kamukama. He wanted to create a getaway that felt authentically Ugandan but still offered all the comforts of a top-notch resort.
His daughter, Atwiine Kamukama, now the resort’s General Manager, has taken the reins and is leading the resort to even greater heights. Atwiine brings a ton of experience to the table. She spent six years working in Kenya’s tourism industry, which is more developed than Uganda’s.
During that time, she learned a lot about managing tourism facilities, even working as the Assistant Reservations Manager at the famous Safari Park Hotel in Nairobi. While she sees a bright future for Uganda’s tourism industry, she believes there’s still work to be done.
“Uganda still has a long way to go in terms of development. We need more innovators and leaders who can push the tourism industry forward,” she says. With Atwiine at the helm, Victoria Forest Resort has become a magnet for tourists from all corners of the globe, including countries like Turkey and the United States.
The resort’s impressive 85% room occupancy rate is a testament to its appeal. It’s not hard to see why. The resort’s menu is a delicious fusion of local Ugandan dishes and international favourites, satisfying a wide range of palates. It’s even earned international recognition, ranking highly among five-star resorts.
Eco-Tourism and Community Focus
What makes Victoria Forest Resort truly special is its commitment to sustainability. The resort is nestled in the heart of nature, surrounded by dense forests and the serene waters of Lake Victoria. This tranquil setting provides a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can listen to the sweet songs of birds, feel the gentle breeze, and watch the waves lap against the shore, it’s pure relaxation.
The resort’s dedication to eco-friendly practices is evident in everything they do. They’ve adopted green building designs, use local resources whenever possible, and are actively involved in supporting the local community. By hiring people from nearby villages and sourcing products locally, they’re not only creating jobs but also boosting the local economy.
It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved. Mr. Tyson Kangwagye, the resort’s Head of Finance, explains the impact of the resort’ “The resort has preserved the natural beauty of the area while bringing in much-needed revenue.”
And let’s not forget the resort’s stunning white sandy beaches, a unique feature in the region. They make Victoria Forest Resort the perfect backdrop for weddings, corporate events, and family vacations.
A Growing Hub for Business and Leisure
Victoria Forest Resort has become a popular choice for corporate gatherings, conferences, and dream weddings. With its impressive conference facilities that can accommodate over 5,000 people, the resort seamlessly caters to both business and leisure tourism.
The team at Victoria Forest Resort isn’t resting on their laurels. They’re constantly looking for ways to improve and expand their offerings. Future plans include adding more wellness services, like relaxing spas and massages, and creating exciting eco-tourism experiences, such as bird watching and nature trails.
Beyond its business success, the resort is deeply committed to giving back to the community. They regularly team up with the local Kalangala Town Council for environmental cleanup projects and support local sports events.
While Victoria Forest Resort has achieved remarkable success, they do face some obstacles, particularly when it comes to infrastructure. “Road networks in the islands are a major concern,” Atwiine points out. Getting to and from the mainland can be tricky, even though the resort provides convenient transport services with their ferry, the MV Nodl.
The condition of the roads on the island also needs improvement. Another challenge they’re tackling is waste management. Despite these challenges, the future looks incredibly bright for Victoria Forest Resort. Atwiine is currently pursuing her Business Administration studies in Switzerland, but she remains dedicated to building on the resort’s success and contributing to the growth of Uganda’s tourism sector.
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Victoria Forest Resort is so much more than just a hotel. It’s a symbol of hope and progress, demonstrating how sustainable tourism can thrive and benefit a whole community. With its commitment to eco-consciousness, luxurious service, and community development, it’s a shining example for other businesses in Uganda and throughout Africa.
