KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda Breweries Limited has rolled out the Diageo Bar Academy training program to elevate standards in the hospitality sector, the company announced Monday.
The program aims to upskill 1,650 bartenders and bar staff in Kampala, reinforcing Uganda’s position as a competitive hospitality destination.
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According to Roy Tumwizere, Head of Advocacy at Uganda Breweries Limited, the program improves service quality, boosts career development and enhances guest experiences, contributing to the sector’s profitability and sustainability.
“The hospitality sector is one of the largest employers in Uganda, and its growth impacts the economy,” Tumwizere said.
The Diageo Bar Academy training program is designed to enhance service excellence and professionalism within Uganda’s hospitality industry. Participants will gain skills in mixology, customer engagement, responsible service and business acumen.
The program is aligned with Uganda’s efforts to raise service standards and support the growth of the tourism sector. In 2023, Uganda’s tourism sector recorded 1.27 million international visitors, marking an 82% recovery from pre-pandemic levels.
Studies show that businesses investing in staff training experience a 20-30% increase in repeat customer visits. Bartenders who undergo professional training demonstrate a 35% improvement in cocktail preparation skills.
The Diageo Bar Academy has consistently contributed to higher customer satisfaction and improved job retention rates. The program focuses on increasing women’s participation in the hospitality sector, aiming to enhance gender equality and create more career opportunities for women.
Uganda’s growing middle class is driving increased demand for premium dining and hospitality experiences. As 39.2% of Ugandans regularly dine away from home, the need for well-trained professionals to meet evolving consumer expectations has never been higher.
“The service industry is evolving rapidly, with consumers seeking premium experiences,” Tumwizere said. “Through this training, we are empowering hospitality professionals to elevate guest experiences, leading to greater industry growth.”
The Diageo Bar Academy program has a proven track record of improving service quality. Previous cohorts have reported increased job retention, higher earnings and improved customer satisfaction ratings.
Run under the Uganda Breweries Learning for Life initiative, the Diageo Bar Academy offers young individuals an unconventional and profitable career path in the hospitality sector. The program has trained over 5,000 bartenders, equipping them with business and practical hospitality skills that enhance their employment prospects.
