The second Hospitality Skills Challenge 2026, held at the Hotel and Tourism Training College (HTTC) from 9th to 11th September, brought together around 50 young competitors from training institutions across the country.
Under the theme “Fusion of Culture,” participants showcased practical skills in pastry and bakery, culinary arts, barista and mixology, restaurant service, and rooms division.
Organised in partnership with Enabel, the Belgian development agency, the event received support from the European Union and the Kingdom of Belgium.
The Hospitality Skills Challenge forms part of the WeWork project focused on creating green and decent jobs for youth.
Six young apprentices from Enabel’s collaboration with the Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA) competed alongside students from universities and hospitality colleges, putting their training into practice in a competitive yet collaborative setting.
The challenge highlighted the growing need for industry-ready skills in Uganda’s tourism and hospitality sector.
By combining technical proficiency with cultural elements, the competition encouraged participants to blend local flavours, service styles and creativity, essential qualities for authentic and responsible visitor experiences.
At Responsible Tourism Company, we believe that investing in local talent is one of the strongest foundations for sustainable tourism.
When young Ugandans gain practical hospitality skills and access to decent work opportunities, communities benefit directly through employment, higher service standards, and pride in sharing their culture with travellers.
Initiatives like the Hospitality Skills Challenge 2026 help close the skills gap and prepare the next generation of chefs, baristas, servers and hotel professionals who will shape Uganda’s tourism future.
The three-day event concluded with the announcement of category winners, recognising outstanding performance and providing recognition that can open doors to further opportunities in the industry.
The following are the winners of the 2026 Hospitality Skills Challenge:
Restaurant Service: Tracy Zalwango (Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities)
Cookery: Bridget Mpanja (Culinary School Uganda)
Pastry & Bakery: Collins Kakooza (Kyambogo University)
Rooms Division: Shillah Buluma (HTTC)
Barista / Mixology & Barista: Raymond Jonathan (also referred to as Ocrin Raymond Jonathan) from Integrated Seed Sector Development (ISSD)
The winners received trophies, gifts, and recognition for their technical skills, creativity, and professionalism.
Such platforms not only test competence but also connect emerging talent with mentors, employers and the wider hospitality network.
Responsible tourism thrives when local people are equipped, employed and empowered. Skills development programmes supported by partners such as Enabel contribute to more resilient destinations, better guest experiences rooted in culture, and tourism that leaves a positive footprint in places like Jinja and beyond.
About Hotel and Tourism Training College (HTTC)
Hotel and Tourism Training College (HTTC) in Jinja City is one of Uganda’s leading institutions for hospitality and tourism education.
The college provides practical, industry-focused training in areas such as culinary arts, pastry and bakery, restaurant service, rooms division, and barista skills, preparing young people for careers in the country’s growing tourism sector.
Hotel and Tourism Training College (HTTC) regularly hosts national events like the Hospitality Skills Challenge and works with partners including government agencies and development organisations to strengthen skills development and improve graduate employment outcomes.
About Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA)
The Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA) is the leading industry body representing hotel owners across Uganda.
Formally registered in May 2000, the association serves as the principal voice for the hotel sector, advocating for an enabling business environment while promoting higher quality standards through capacity building, marketing, and skills development.
Uganda Hotel Owners Association (UHOA) partners with government agencies, training institutions and development organisations such as Enabel to support apprenticeships and strengthen the hospitality workforce that underpins Uganda’s tourism industry.
About Enabel
Enabel is the Belgian development agency that implements and coordinates Belgium’s international cooperation policy.
In Uganda, the agency partners with government institutions, training centres and the private sector to promote skills development, decent work and sustainable economic opportunities, including through projects such as WeWork that support youth employment in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Jinja City, Eastern Uganda
Jinja City, located in eastern Uganda along the shores of Lake Victoria, is one of the country’s leading tourism destinations and is widely recognised as the adventure capital of East Africa.
Known for its proximity to the Source of the Nile, Jinja City offers exciting tourism activities such as white-water rafting, kayaking, boat cruises, bungee jumping, quad biking and horseback riding.
Visitors can also explore Jinja City’s cultural heritage, local markets, nearby Mabira Forest and scenic riverside attractions.
With its beautiful landscapes, vibrant hospitality industry and opportunities for community-based tourism, Jinja City is an ideal destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers and travellers looking to experience Uganda’s natural beauty and culture.
You can also have a look at our Jinja City tours;
- Grade 5 Half Day Extreme Rafting Adventure Tour
- Full Day Bungee Jumping & River Bugging Tour
- White Water Rafting and Bungee Jumping Tour
- Bungee Jumping & River Club Lunch trip
- VIP Rafting or Kayaking Adventure Tour
Check out our Jinja hotels page for more information on the available accommodation in the Jinja City in Eastern Uganda.
Ready to experience Uganda in a way that supports local talent and communities?
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