UTB report lists Commonwealth Resort -Munyonyo on top of the Five-Star hotel ranking.

In the latest report of the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) released regarding the grading and classification of accommodation facilities has listed Commonwealth Resort, Munyonyo topping the list of Five-Star Hotels in Uganda.

The bold move aims at boosting service standards, strengthening investor confidence, and positioning the country competitively in the regional and global tourism market.

Among the various hotels rated included five-star,  four stars, three star and two star hotels, where Commonwealth |Resort Munyonyo tops followed with others such as the listed  Kampala Serena Hotel, Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort, and Sheraton Kampala Hotel.

Others were rated under the four star category which included 17 hotels while 23 received three star rating ending with 59 properties classified as two-star establishments.

Among some of the four-star facilities are:  Kabira Country Club, Mestil hotels. Four points by Sheraton hotel, Hotel Africana, Protea Hotel Kampala Skyz, among others.

Mr John Simplicious Gessa, the UTB spokesperson, said a sector-wide team with diverse expertise carries out the assessments, evaluating each facility against established indices and grades.

“This classification helps us anticipate the type of service a visitor can expect and with this clients are unlikely to be disappointed when visiting a lower-star facility because requirements differ by category.”

He added; “By clearly defining the standards for each category, we are giving tourists certainty about what to expect, while signaling to investors where opportunities lie. Grading ensures that services meet regional and international benchmarks, which raises Uganda’s profile as a reliable and competitive destination.”

The grading is conducted under East African Community (EAC) standards, which apply uniformly to hotels, lodges, motels, cottages, and other sorts of accommodation facilities. However, the criteria differ depending on the type of facility.

“A place may be neat, but without a swimming pool or a standard reception, it cannot achieve a five-star rating. Lodges and motels are assessed based on the purpose they serve,” Mr Gessa explained.

As a mandatory requirement to participate in the grading, Mr Gessa says a facility must hold a valid operating license. “We don’t assess facilities still underway or those not authorized legally to accommodate people.”

Gessa  said that the grading system defines service standards for each star level with varying requirements, highlighling that although standards are uniform across the region, the criteria differ depending on the type of facility.

He noted that a facility may be neat but cannot achieve a five-star rating without key amenities such as a swimming pool or standard reception. Lodges, motels and other facilities are assessed according to the purpose they serve.

Under the grading system, star levels reflect the range and quality of services offered. Five-star facilities must provide spacious and luxurious accommodation that meets international standards. They are required to demonstrate exceptional interior design, immaculate furnishings, highly trained staff and flawless service. Restaurants must also show high technical skill in producing dishes that meet international standards.

In line with Regulation 5(4) of the Uganda Tourism (Classification of Accommodation Facilities and Restaurants) Regulations, 2014, grading of accommodation facilities is provided so as to assure travellers of the quality of services offered.

Ms Jean Byamugisha, the UHOA chief executive officer says grading is important though it comes at a time when hotel operators are struggling with high operating costs which discourages their financial balance.

She said hotel investors face 26 different taxes and licences, making Uganda less competitive than regional neighbours and forcing budget-conscious visitors to rely on one- and two-star hotels, home stays and Airbus facilities, many of which remain ungraded.

“The tax strain has made it difficult for small and mid-range hotels to upgrade or expand in time for growing demand. Many operators are also working on tight budgets, unable to access credit to complete new builds or refurbish existing facilities,” she said.