The Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) revoked Tubale Safaris’ operating license on 21 July 2026, following concerns about the company’s operations.
The development has attracted attention after police arrested its proprietor, Tusubira Annet, over allegations of defrauding foreign tourists through safari bookings that were reportedly never fulfilled.
According to the Uganda Police Force, the operator allegedly continued accepting bookings and payments through the company’s website, email and WhatsApp after the license withdrawal.
Tubale Safaris License Withdraw: Foreign Tourists Scammed Nearly US$40,000.
Police investigations have identified four complaints involving foreign tourists, including visitors from the United States and the United Kingdom.
The reported transactions amount to approximately US$39,600, with tourists allegedly paying for safari arrangements to Uganda’s protected areas such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park that were never delivered.
Tusubira was arrested on 30 October 2026 by officers from Jinja Central Police Station and subsequently taken to court over allegations of obtaining money by false pretenses.
Police have appealed to other potential victims to report their complaints and provide booking confirmations, payment records and correspondence to support ongoing investigations.
UTB’s Role in Regulating Tourism Operators
The withdrawal of Tubale Safaris’ operating license highlights the Uganda Tourism Board’s responsibility in regulating tourism businesses and maintaining standards within the sector.
As Uganda’s tourism regulatory and promotional body, UTB plays an important role in licensing tourism enterprises, monitoring industry standards and supporting the development of a credible tourism sector.
Licensing helps travelers identify legitimate tourism businesses and provides a framework for accountability among operators offering services such as safari packages, tour guiding and travel arrangements.
The Tubale Safari License withdrawal also highlights the importance of ensuring that tourism operators comply with licensing requirements and that visitors can access reliable information when choosing companies to organize their trips.
How Travelers Can Avoid Safari Booking Scams
Following the complaints, Uganda Police have advised tourists and members of the public to take precautions before booking safari packages or transferring money to tour operators.
Travelers planning to visit Uganda are encouraged to:
- Verify tour operator licenses: Confirm the company’s current licensing status directly with the Uganda Tourism Board before making payments.
- Check business details: Ensure that the business name on booking documents matches the operator’s official licensing information.
- Request written itineraries: Obtain a detailed travel programme showing accommodation, transport, activities and other services included in the package.
- Understand payment conditions: Ask for a clear breakdown of costs, payment deadlines, cancellation policies and refund arrangements.
- Use traceable payment methods: Retain receipts, transaction references and other proof of payment.
- Verify online contacts: Independently confirm the company’s official contact details rather than relying exclusively on information shared through social media, websites or WhatsApp.
Police have also encouraged anyone who may have been affected by the alleged activities of Tubale Safaris to report to Jinja Central Police Station or the nearest police station, providing booking confirmations, payment records and relevant correspondence to support investigations.
Tubale Safaris License & Uganda’s Tourism Reputation
As Uganda strengthens its position as an international tourism destination ahead of AFCON 2027, maintaining visitor confidence remains essential.
The Tubale Safari License case reinforces the need for travelers to engage properly licensed operators and for tourism businesses to uphold professional standards.
Plan Your Uganda Safari with Confidence
Silverback Gorilla Safaris encourages travelers to make informed booking decisions and verify tourism operators before committing to safari arrangements.
Contact our team at info@silverbackgorillasafaris.com to plan your Uganda gorilla trekking or wildlife safari experience responsibly.