Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) on June 13, 2022, gave UGX 3,388,186,504 revenue-sharing funds to communities that surround Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Area. In a handover ceremony presided over by the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Col. Tom Butime, revenue cheques were presented to the leaders of Kisoro, Kanungu, and Rubanda districts. The function was attended by Board of Trustees members led by the Chairman Dr. Panta Kasoma, Uganda Wildlife Authority senior staff led by Ag. ED John Makombo and the top leadership of the three districts.

Hon. Butime explained that the local community that lives next to these resources does not only keep guard of them but also suffers the cost of conservation. It was therefore for that reason that Government gives back a portion of the revenues from the Park to appreciate the role of the community in protecting wildlife resources.

The Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. Panta Kasoma noted that UWA revised its revenue sharing guidelines and sensitized communities in the management of the revenue sharing fund. “I am confident that the funds you are about to receive today will not only be put to good use but will also demonstrate the economic values of Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks,” he said.

On behalf of the district leaders, District Chairperson Rubanda Kasyaba Stephen thanked UWA for the great partnership and for collaborating well with the communities that surround Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Area. He pledged to continue cooperating strongly with the institution to ensure communities protect the wildlife but also feel the benefits that accrue from its protection.

The function was attended by among others, Chairpersons, Resident District Commissioners, Chief Administrative Officers, and other technical officers from the six districts that neighbor Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Area in Kanungu, Kisoro, and Rubanda.