Kidepo Valley National Park is undergoing significant changes as new initiatives take shape. This progress follows the launch of the EU NaturAfrica Landscape Project, which focuses on addressing human-wildlife conflicts and promoting coexistence. The project highlights the importance of conservancies in enhancing both livelihoods and conservation efforts, while encouraging collaboration among local communities, governments, and donors.

During the project launch, several key developments were introduced, including the handover of the Joint Operations Command Centre (JOCC) at the Kidepo Valley Conservation Area Headquarters. This center aims to integrate communication and operational management within the park and surrounding community conservancies.

Additionally,six motorcycles were provided to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), National Forest Authority (NFA), and Morungole Community Conservancy to aid in project monitoring. The Rhino Sanctuary was also unveiled, paving the way for the reintroduction of rhinos to the area, that had not been seen there since 1982 - Kidepo is set to receive both Southern and Eastern Black Rhinos, which is expected to enhance the park’s tourism appeal.

UWA Commissioner Field Operations, Charles Tumwesigye, representing Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders and partners involved, including the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) as the project lead, Uganda Conservation Foundation (UCF), National Forest Authority (NFA), Kenya Wildlife Research & Training Institute (WRTI), and the Morungole Community.

He pledged that UWA will continue collaborating closely with these partners to ensure the project effectively addresses wildlife-related challenges and improves local livelihoods. He emphasized, “Together, we can transform conflict into coexistence and prosperity.”

Northern Rangelands Trust CEO Shaval Shah praised the collaborative spirit, stating, “No one can manage this complex project alone—our combined efforts will create secure futures.” He highlighted that conservancies empower local communities while safeguarding wildlife and expressed optimism that the Rhino Sanctuary could successfully breed 100 rhinos within 20 years following their reintroduction.

The project launch marks a unified commitment to advancing conservation efforts alongside economic development in the region.