Pearl H. KakoozaManaging Director of Uganda Travel Bureau (UTB 2004 Ltd)
Pearl Hoareau Kakooza is a seasoned tourism professional, promoter, and investor in Uganda’s travel and tourism industry, with over 25 years of experience across various sectors. She began her career in tourism in 1999 as the General Manager of Express Travel Group / American Express in Uganda, and currently serves as the Managing Director of Uganda Travel Bureau (UTB), the Chairperson of both the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) and The Uganda Association of Travel Agents (TUGATA). Uganda Travel Bureau (UTB 2004 Ltd.) is one of the leading travel management companies in Uganda, with a legacy dating back to its registration in 1971. In 2004, new shareholders revitalized the company and rebranded it as UTB 2004 Ltd. Under her leadership, UTB has maintained its status as a prominent player in the industry, establishing a franchise partnership with FCM, one of the world’s five largest travel management companies. UTB 2004 Ltd. is a woman-led company, with a majority of its shares held by women. As the Chairperson of TUGATA, Ms. Hoareau Kakooza represents Uganda in the IATA-led APJC (Airline Passenger Joint Council) delegate meetings for Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. She is also a board member of the Association of Eastern and Southern Africa Travel Agents (AESATA), a regional association with ten member countries. Ms. Hoareau Kakooza was the first female President of the Uganda Tourism Association (UTA), serving from 2018 to 2021. She is also the Seychelles Tourism Ambassador to Uganda and, in March 2025, was recognized by Brussels Airlines for her significant contributions to the travel and tourism policies that have fostered growth across the African continent. Beyond her professional roles, Ms. Hoareau Kakooza is a renowned coffee farmer who promotes agro-tourism through her farm, Farm Stay Zirobwe, which emphasizes
sustainable farming practices. A graduate of Makerere University in 1984, Ms. Hoareau Kakooza holds a degree in English Language, Religious Studies, and Education. She has also undergone training in Administration, Procurement, and Community Development. Her career path has included roles as an English teacher and Head of Department at St. Joseph’s Girls Senior Secondary School, Nsambya; Training Officer at Care International; and Projects Coordinator for the Center for Inter-African Relations, funded by Comic Relief UK. Her work at the Center focused on youth in armed conflict, as well as the promotion of peace and reconciliation. She has also held positions as Procurement Manager at Crown Agents Kampala and at The Old East African Trading Company (Uganda) Limited before transitioning into the tourism sector.
