Editor's Note: Beyond this Emerging Destinations/Premier Safaris effective, fact-based communication style, this simple, unsolicited email alert, or "update" from the field, gains favor here at the ATTA. Such alerts are key to keeping the tourism trade, travelers and media current regarding on-the-ground situations, whether they're natural disasters, geo-political strife, and/or for such issues as Uganda and Rwanda are currently experiencing - and, their impact on adventure tourism. ATTA Members are encouraged to seriously consider integrating such alerts into their external communications programs - though we are keenly aware that such communications must be critically evaluated, fact-ridden and vetted out for clarity, accuracy and expertise before hitting the "send" button.
Dear Chris,
We have had a few questions regarding the escalation of fighting in the Eastern Congo. Below is a statement from Jeremy Otter, GM of Premier Safaris. Please feel free to contact us with any concerns.
Political Unrest and Armed Conflict in the Eastern Portion of the Democratic Republic of Congo
Following the recent political instability in Eastern Congo, there has been a deployment of the armed forces around the bordering areas in Uganda and Rwanda to ensure there is no possibility of a spill over of the violence, and thus, these areas are not affected by the Congo conflicts.
We are in contact with the relevant organizations, and have confirmed that there are no cases of insecurity in the Gorilla parks of Uganda & Rwanda (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park,Mgahinga National Park and Parc National des Volcans) & and other neighboring areas. Tours to the above mentioned national parks and Gorilla trekking safaris are proceeding as per normal, and currently there is no reason for any cancellations of safaris to Uganda or Rwanda.
As a private company, we are not in a position to have the final word but we are in close contact with relevant authorities, and are also monitoring the situation for regular updates.
We shall keep you all updated of the “on ground facts” as we our guests’ safety is of paramount importance to us.
Regards,
Jane Behrend and Kiki Paris
Emerging Destinations