Communities living around the Bwindi-Mgahinga Conservation Area (BMCA) will benefit from a total of UGX 2,197,559,618 in revenue sharing funds disbursed yesterday by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The funds, drawn from park entry fees and the gorilla permit levy, are intended to support local development projects and strengthen community participation in conservation.

The disbursement ceremony took place on June 19, 2025, at the Buhoma Visitor Information Centre in Bwindi and marked a major milestone in demonstrating that wildlife conservation can and does deliver tangible benefits to neighboring communities.

The Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Rtd. Col. Tom Butime, was represented at the event by the Chairman of the UWA Board of Trustees, Prof. James Kalema, who officiated the disbursement. Prof Kalema said that UWA recognizes the important role that communities play in conservation. “We are here to fulfill a promise; one that recognizes the role communities play in preserving our natural heritage. These funds should bring to life projects that improve schools, health care, clean water, and livelihoods,” he said. He added that the partnership between UWA and communities must be strengthened through practical results on the ground, and that revenue sharing is a key avenue to achieving this.

UWA Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi, emphasized the need for accountability and purposeful implementation. “This is more than just revenue sharing it’s a partnership. When communities see tangible improvements in their daily lives, they become stronger allies in protecting our parks and wildlife. We count on local leaders to ensure these funds reach the right people and do the right work,” he said. Dr. Musinguzi noted that the success of Uganda’s conservation model relies on continued public support and trust, which can only be sustained through transparency and visible community impact.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiary districts, Rubanda District Chairperson Mr. Kasyaba Stephen expressed appreciation to UWA for the funds and promised that the money received will be put to good use and benefit the communities. “We welcome this support with open arms. It comes at a time when our communities are eager to see the rewards of their support for conservation. We will ensure every shilling is accounted for and directed to projects that matter,” he said. He stressed that local governments are now more empowered and better guided under the new Revenue Sharing Regulations to implement people-centered projects with clear deliverables.

Kanungu Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Gaad Rugaju Ahimbisibwe, called on district leaders to uphold transparency. “This support is a symbol of trust. Let us not betray it. The communities must feel these funds through better services and visible improvements. We are watching, and we will follow up,” he warned. The RDC reaffirmed the government’s resolve to ensure revenue sharing delivers real transformation at the grassroots and urged political and technical leaders to work jointly to safeguard its integrity.

Of the total amount disbursed:

1. Kanungu District received UGX 1,175,006,492
2. Kisoro District received UGX 636,120,504 (UGX 525,030,566 and UGX 111,089,938 from Bwindi and Mgahinga respectively)
3. Rubanda District received UGX 386,432,622

These allocations will support priority community projects identified through local consultations, ranging from schools and health facilities to water systems and alternative livelihoods.

The ceremony drew a wide range of dignitaries and stakeholders, including Resident District Commissioners, District Chairpersons, Chief Administrative Officers, Members of the UWA Board of Trustees, LCIII Chairpersons, Town Clerks, Sub County Chiefs, religious leaders, media representatives, staff of Bwindi-Mgahinga Conservation Area, and community members from neighboring parishes.

Ends