News Category: Organisation update

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has successfully relocated a stray male elephant weighing 3,496 kilograms that had been causing fear among residents of Bukatu Village, Mpanga Parish, Kahunge Sub-county in Kamwenge District for more than five months.

The elephant frequently wandered into the village searching for crops such as maize, watermelon, and pumpkins, posing a significant threat to the community. After receiving reports from residents, UWA stepped in to handle the situation.

The complex operation was led by senior veterinary doctor Victor Musiime and involved the authority’s experts. After three sleepless nights of coordinated effort, they managed to capture the elephant and relocated it to Kibale National Park –  Mainaro area in Dura Sub-county, which is far from human settlements.

John Justice Tibesigwa, the Chief Warden of Kibale National Park, stressed that relocation alone is insufficient because elephants are intelligent and can find their way back.

“It’s not just about relocating it because it’s clever and can return. That’s why we fitted it with a tracking collar to monitor its movements and prevent it from coming back to the community,” he explained.

He praised the team for their hard work and dedication and thanked the community leaders and residents for their cooperation throughout the operation.

Selestini Ngabirano, the Bukatu chairman, commended UWA for their intervention, noting that the elephant had caused fear among community members, leading many to avoid going out at night.

While Kibale National Park is well-known as a haven for primates, it also hosts a considerable number of forest elephants, estimated at around 566 in 2019. These forest elephants are smaller than savanna elephants and can be seen during guided walks, especially in the southern part of the park.

In a significant move to protect Uganda’s wildlife, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has successfully apprehended a 36-year-old man, Okech Philip Jonathan, who was found in possession of 14.5 kilograms of pangolin scales.

This operation was conducted in collaboration with the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF), today 22^nd March, at the UPDF checkpoint in Karuma, Kiryandongo district, around 10:30 a.m, while the suspect was traveling by motorcycle taxi (bodaboda) to Karuma Centre to sell the scales.

Okech was carrying the scales inside a yellow sack placed in a bag. When questioned about his destination, he explained that he had traveled from Kampala via the Gateway bus to Lamdin, intending to conduct the transaction there. However, he was informed that the buyer was resting in a guest room in Karuma, which prompted him to take the items there instead.

The suspect is to be handed over to Kiryandongo Central Police Station to face charges of illegal possession of protected wildlife species and engaging in wildlife trade without a permit, as stipulated under section 70(1)(b) of the Uganda Wildlife Act 315.

Uganda Wildlife Authority has once again successfully passed the internal accreditation for the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 assessment, an annual evaluation that examines quality management systems, technical expertise, and excellence in laboratory service delivery.

This assessment was carried out by the South African National Accreditation System at the Uganda Wildlife Authority Diagnostic and Research Laboratory (UWADRL), located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kasese.

The evaluators praised UWA for the technical skills of its staff in accurately conducting various laboratory tests, maintaining a laboratory setup that complies with all safety standards for safe diagnostic procedures, managing professional equipment records including inventory, calibration schedules, calibration certificates, and service reports, as well as demonstrating strong support from top management in upholding laboratory service standards.

This outstanding accomplishment clearly shows that Uganda Wildlife Authority is dedicated to upholding quality laboratory systems, technical proficiency, and excellence in laboratory professionalism.

Charmaine Morube head of the assessors team commented , “Maintaining accreditation under such a stringent international standard highlights the professionalism, commitment, and teamwork exhibited by the staff.”

Ongoing adherence to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 not only boosts confidence in tests results but also strengthens UWADRL’s vital role in advancing wildlife health, research, and One Health initiatives both within the country and internationally

As we observe this year’s International Day of Forests with the theme “Forests and Economies,” the forest restoration program at Kibale National Park is making a significant impact by transforming lives and boosting Uganda’s economy through its carbon absorption efforts.

Kibale National Park, known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” spans about 71.5 square kilometers of restored forest. This forest not only helps combat global warming but also plays a crucial role in improving the livelihoods of people living near the park.

Planted in the last 30 years, the forest now absorbs 1.5 million tons of carbon, benefiting local communities involved in its restoration. Senior Warden Forest Restoration, Richard Kigenyi, expresses confidence that the ongoing carbon data collection will yield positive results, noting an average increase of over 200,000 tons every three years.

John Justine Tibesigwa, the Chief Warden of Kibale Conservation Area, states: “The forest restoration project in Kibale is one of the best in Africa, delivering enormous benefits to the neighboring communities and ultimately enhancing the conservation of the park.”

Supported by the forest restoration project led by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and partners such as Face-the-Future, Prima Klima, and local communities, the carbon absorption initiative generates revenue from carbon credit sales that positively impacts lives.

This income supports community projects like beekeeping, pig farming, and goat rearing, enabling residents to develop sustainable livelihoods without harming the forest. More than 200 community members are employed seasonally in activities such as tree planting, seed collection, nursery management, and caring for native seedlings, while over 140 have permanent jobs.

The project has also provided 5,000-liter water tanks to improve access to clean water for households, reducing the need for risky trips into the park to collect water from natural sources. Additionally, a five-kilometer trench was built to prevent elephants from damaging crops on nearby farms, helping to reduce conflicts between the community and the park.

Understanding Carbon Markets and Credits:

A carbon market is a non-physical marketplace where carbon credits are bought and sold. These markets come in two types: compliance markets, which are government-mandated trading systems, and voluntary carbon markets (VCMs), where companies and individuals can purchase carbon credits to offset their emissions voluntarily.

Carbon credits are tradable permits or certificates that represent the right to emit one metric ton of carbon dioxide (CO₂) or an equivalent amount of other greenhouse gases (GHGs). They are essential tools for reducing emissions and can be generated through projects that avoid emissions, such as renewable energy and forest conservation, or through removal projects like reforestation and carbon capture and storage.

In a major effort to combat wildlife crime, a joint operation by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Uganda Police Force (UPF) led to a successful arrest of five individuals found with 106 kilograms of raw elephant ivory in Bukedea District.

The suspects were arrested in Ariet Village, Kachubala, Aligoi Sub-county, following an intelligence-driven mission aimed at dismantling illegal wildlife trafficking networks. During the operation, six cut pieces of elephant ivory were seized, indicating a well-organized illicit trade.

The arrested individuals have been named as Acipa Deborah (40), a businesswoman; Okwatum Stephen (43), a driver; Ojangole Godfrey (35), a teacher from Kampala; Arapa Julius (28), a businessman; and Adwaru Simon (38). Four of them reside in Bukedea District, while one comes from Serere District.

After their arrest, the suspects and the confiscated items were taken to Bukedea Central Police Station. They are set to be transferred to the Standards Utilities and Wildlife Court in Makindye, Kampala, where formal charges will be filed. Authorities stated that the suspects will face two charges: unauthorized possession of protected wildlife specimens, specifically elephant ivory, and conspiracy to commit a felony.

Margret Kasumba, Assistant Commissioner Law Enforcement and head of the wildlife crime unit at UWA, praised the operation’s success, calling it a vital move toward breaking up illegal wildlife trafficking networks. She also commended the collaborative efforts of the enforcement teams and partners involved.

“This operation delivers a significant blow to ivory trafficking networks. Recovering 106 kilograms of ivory underscores both the magnitude of the problem and our effectiveness in disrupting these criminal groups. We remain dedicated to eliminating this threat to our biodiversity,” she said.

Uganda continues to grapple with wildlife trafficking challenges, especially concerning elephant ivory, which is highly valued on the international black market. Uganda Wildlife Authority warns that such illegal activities seriously endanger elephant populations and the country’s biodiversity.

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has today commenced the historic reintroduction of Rhinos to Kidepo Valley National Park, marking the return of the species to the landscape 43 years after the last rhino was sighted in the area.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony of the first two Southern White Rhinos from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Kidepo Valley National Park, the Executive Director of Uganda Wildlife Authority Dr. James Musinguzi described the exercise as a major milestone in Uganda’s conservation journey.  A total of eight rhinos will be taken to the park.

“This moment marks the beginning of a new rhino story for Kidepo Valley National Park. The translocation of these rhinos is the first step in restoring a species that once formed part of the park’s natural heritage. Over time, additional rhinos will be introduced to gradually rebuild a viable and thriving rhino population in Kidepo.”

Dr. Musinguzi noted that the exercise is aligned with the National Rhino Conservation Strategy for Uganda, which provides the national framework for restoring rhino populations within their historical range and strengthening long-term rhino conservation efforts in the country.

He further explained that the exercise is also informed by the feasibility study for rhino reintroduction into the wild undertaken by Uganda Wildlife Authority, which assessed suitable habitats, ecological requirements, and security conditions for restoring rhinos to protected areas in Uganda. The study identified Kidepo Valley National Park as one of the most suitable locations for reintroducing rhinos into the wild.

Extensive ground work has been undertaken by partners to prepare Kidepo Valley National Park for the return of the species. Preparations include the establishment of a secure rhino sanctuary supported by perimeter fencing, access roads, firebreaks, ranger facilities, water infrastructure, and monitoring systems to ensure effective protection and management of the animals.

Dr. Musinguzi expressed appreciation to conservation partners whose collaboration has made the reintroduction possible. “We are deeply grateful to our conservation partners whose technical expertise, financial support, and logistical contributions have made this milestone possible. The return of rhinos to Kidepo demonstrates the power of partnerships in restoring species and protecting Uganda’s wildlife heritage.”

The Commissioner for Biodiversity Management, Mr. John Makombo, emphasized the ecological and operational significance of the reintroduction, noting that the return of rhinos to Kidepo is a critical step in restoring the park’s ecological completeness.

“Kidepo Valley National Park is one of Uganda’s most intact savannah ecosystems, and the reintroduction of Southern White Rhinos restores a key component of that ecosystem. This reintroduction strengthens not only species recovery but also ecosystem integrity and resilience”, he said.

The rhino reintroduction is supported by Wild Landscapes East Africa (WLEA), Northern Range Lands Trust (NRT) and Uganda Conservation Foundation (UCF). These partners have supported sanctuary development, infrastructure preparation, equipment provision, and logistical planning necessary for the successful translocation and long[1]term protection of the rhinos.

Upon arrival in Kidepo Valley National Park, the rhinos were initially placed in a secure sanctuary within the park where they will be closely monitored by trained rangers and veterinary teams to ensure their successful adaptation to the environment.

Rhinos once roamed widely across the Kidepo Valley ecosystem. However, due to intense poaching and insecurity during the late 1970s and early 1980s, the species was wiped out from the area. The last rhino in Kidepo Valley National Park was killed in Narus Valley in 1983, marking the end of their presence in the park for more than four decades.

Uganda’s rhino recovery journey began in 2005, when a breeding programme was established at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary after the species became extinct in the wild in Uganda. The success recorded at Ziwa and the importation of an additional eight rhinos from South Africa late last year have enabled the gradual expansion of rhino restoration efforts to other suitable habitats within the country. Currently, Uganda has 61 rhinos.

The return of rhinos to Kidepo Valley National Park is expected to strengthen biodiversity conservation, enhance the park’s tourism potential, and contribute to Uganda’s broader efforts to restore endangered wildlife species within their historic ecosystems.

UWA women have been reminded of their gender roles and the importance of balancing these with their careers to become influential leaders worldwide.

Dr. Joyce Nalunga Birimumaaso, a prominent Ugandan lawyer, transformational leader, and motivational speaker, made these remarks as a key note speaker during the UWA International Women’s Day Celebrations held at the Authority Headquarters in Kamwokya, Kampala. She emphasized the importance of humility and inclusiveness in leadership, highlighting that women are regarded as role models who shape character and discipline

She stated, “The future is female. The future is bold. That’s why His Excellency has appointed many women to high-ranking positions. When you believe in yourself, others will believe in you. When you doubt yourself, people can sense it. If you don’t value yourself, who else will? Confidence in yourself will be visible to everyone.”

Dr. Nalunga also discouraged the “pull-down syndrome,” where women undermine other women’s progress, urging women to support one another to reach their full potential. She reminded them that in the professional world, there are no excuses and encouraged them to be results-oriented and add value to their organization.

UWA Executive Director Dr James Musinguzi who briefly stepped to celebrate with the ladies in an evening they dubbed as UWA Women’s Day – Ka-Chai Fire Side Chat, encouraging women to pursue further education to better compete with their male counterparts in the job market, emphasizing that once empowered, women can compete equally with men in various fields.

UWA Commissioner Human Resources, Susan Muhumuza Nyatia, highlighted the importance of gender equality in leadership roles and motivated women to strive for higher positions. Additionally, Dr. Ahebwa Keisha Patience, a mental health and wellness consultant at Thrive Therapy and Wellness, advised women to prioritize self-care and establish boundaries, reassuring them that it is acceptable to say *no* when feeling overwhelmed.

Uganda Wildlife Authority is eagerly anticipating a historic moment as they await the hatching of the very first Shoe bill egg laid in captivity at the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre – Entebbe Zoo. Today, March 9th, marks the 39th day of incubation, according to Assistant Animal Keeper Hannington Bulemu, who monitors the progress daily.

Typically, Shoe bill stork eggs incubate for 30 to 35 days, averaging about one month. Both parents share incubation duties, taking turns sitting on their clutch of one to three eggs. In captivity, however, the incubation period can extend to around 45 days, as documented in 2008 at Pairi Daiza in Belgium, where the first captive Shoe bill successfully hatched.

The length of incubation varies depending on environmental factors, parental behavior, and the timing of egg-laying. When multiple eggs are laid several days apart—a process called asynchronous hatching—parents may begin incubating before all eggs are laid, causing the eggs to hatch on different days rather than simultaneously.

Both Shoebill parents share incubation responsibilities and actively cool the eggs by wetting them with water from their beaks. Occasionally, inconsistent care such as leaving the nest unattended (egg neglect) occurs; while this doesn’t always impact the success rate, it can affect the incubation duration.

About Shoe bills

The Shoe bill (Balaeniceps rex) is a large, stork-like bird native to East African wetlands, recognized for its enormous, shoe-shaped bill with a sharp, hooked tip used for hunting. They stand 4 to 5 feet tall, with an 8-foot wingspan and have grey plumage.

Shoe bills are monogamous during breeding but are otherwise solitary. They hunt by ambush, remaining motionless for hours before capturing fish, baby crocodiles, and snakes. The IUCN lists them as vulnerable, with an estimated 3,300 to 5,300 individuals remaining in the wild.

They exhibit a unique behavior called urohydrosis, where they defecate on their legs to cool down. Generally quiet, they produce a loud, rattling, machine-gun-like sound with their bills, especially during mating.

Their primary habitats are swamps and marshes. Shoe bills can live up to approximately 35 years in the wild and up to 50 years in captivity.

Hundreds of runners participated in the 8th edition of the Uganda Wildlife Half Marathon held at Kitante Primary School. Originally known as the Uganda Wildlife Marathon, the event was renamed the Uganda Wildlife Half Marathon and takes place annually as one of the activities leading up to World Wildlife Day, observed every March 3rd.

The marathon’s goal is to raise funds for the children of fallen rangers who lost their lives while on duty. Participants took on 21km, 10km, and 5km races along various routes within Kampala, starting and finishing at Kitante Primary School.

Flagging of the runners, the Cabinet Minister for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, expressed gratitude to everyone who supported this year’s edition, including conservation enthusiasts, partners, sponsors, and individuals.

Uganda Wildlife Authority Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi, promised that the marathon will continue to grow bigger and better to help keep the children of fallen rangers in school.

Pictorial

A celebratory atmosphere filled Protea Hotel in Kololo, Kampala, as the Uganda Wildlife Authority honored the most exceptional journalists in conservation reporting for the year 2025.

The nature themed event was attended by the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, who praised the journalists for their relentless efforts in sharing impactful conservation stories.

The Minister expressed gratitude to supporting partners and urged other stakeholders to join in backing the media to continue highlighting stories of resilience and innovation within the conservation sector.

In his opening remarks, UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi highlighted the growth of the Authority’s conservation awards from the first edition to the third, with the fourth scheduled for 2026, indicating increasing trust in the awards and growing interest from donors to engage more professionally in conservation journalism.

He stated, “UWA remains dedicated to collaborating closely with the media by enhancing access to information, ensuring accountability, facilitating field visits, and supporting responsible and ethical reporting.” He also announced the 2026 Conservation Media Awards and encouraged journalists to begin preparing their submissions.

UWA Board Chairman Prof. James Kalema emphasized that modern conservation extends beyond protecting the environment on the ground; it also involves shaping mindsets, influencing national and international conversations, and building long-term public support—all vital roles fulfilled by the media through their reporting, photography, documentaries, and radio/television broadcasts.

He added that the media have successfully brought conservation issues closer to the public, who greatly appreciate these efforts.

UWA Assistant Commissioner Communications, Bashir Hangi, stated that the quality of stories is improving every year, demonstrating that UWA’s media capacity-building efforts in nature, conservation, and wildlife storytelling are making a significant impact.

Maz Robertson, the WildAid East African Representative, emphasized that this time, journalists truly committed themselves to thoroughly investigating their stories, using multiple sources and carefully verified facts, which made all categories highly competitive.

The awards recognized winners in five categories: Community Conservation, awarded to Edward Anyoli, Richard Olweny, and David Ochieng; Habitat and Environment, won by Gerald Tenywa and Eli Akiiza; Wildlife Crime, received by Innocent Kiiza and Johnisani Ocakacon; Wildlife Protection, awarded to Sarah Mawelere and Joshua Kagoro; and Photograph of the Year, which went to Jacob Mukalazi.

Each winner received 5 million shillings in cash, while runners-up were given certificates and a one-year free entry pass to all of Uganda’s national parks.