About the e-BETP Project
A UCC-funded initiative connecting Uganda's tourism communities to digital markets, tools, and opportunity.
Why e-BETP was created
Communities living near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Kibale National Park — two of Uganda's most visited tourist destinations — had virtually no digital presence. Despite being surrounded by world-class wildlife and welcoming thousands of international visitors each year, local artisans and small business owners were invisible online.
Artisans sold handcrafted goods by the roadside with no fixed prices, no advance booking system, and no way for international tourists to discover them before arriving. A visitor planning a trip from Spain or Germany had no digital resource to find where to buy authentic crafts, book a community guide, or arrange a homestay.
Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) identified this gap and funded e-BETP — the eBusiness Eco-Tour Portal — under the Universal Service and Access Fund to bridge it. The project runs from October 2025 to September 2026, reaching over 1,500 MSMEs across Bwindi, Kibale, and Mgahinga.
These people had no digital space to sell their products. Yet a tourist booking a trip from Spain would want to know in advance where they can buy authentic crafts.
How the e-BETP portal works
Artisans and tourism businesses list their products with descriptions, pricing, and cultural stories — giving international visitors a window into what awaits them before they land.
Tourists browse the portal and make advance bookings before arriving in Uganda — guaranteeing community members confirmed visitors and a more predictable income.
Community digital hubs and SMS alerts via Africa's Talking reach members without smartphones — ensuring no one is left behind by connectivity gaps in remote areas.
Three regions. One connected corridor.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Home to more than half the world's mountain gorillas, Bwindi draws thousands of international visitors each year. The project targets curio sellers, community guides, and lodge operators in the surrounding communities.
Kibale National Park
The chimpanzee capital of the world, Kibale offers unmatched primate-tracking experiences. The project focuses on accommodation providers and tour guides looking to reach international markets online.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Home to golden monkeys and gorillas on the Virunga slopes, Mgahinga is an emerging destination. The project connects artisan cooperatives and community groups to digital markets for the first time.
Meet the project team
Partner with e-BETP
Tourism boards, NGOs, funders, and private-sector partners — tell us how you'd like to work with the project and our team will get back to you.