Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is intensifying its fight against wildlife crime by launching a new Uganda Wildlife and Timber Forensics Laboratory at the Uganda Wildlife Education Center (UWEC) – Entebbe Zoo. This initiative marks a significant step in protecting Uganda’s forests.

The cutting-edge laboratory, funded by the European Union, Danida, TRACE – Wildlife Forensic Network, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, was officially inaugurated by the European Union Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Jan Sadek. He emphasized that the opening is more than just unveiling a building; it signals that wildlife and forest crimes must be treated as serious, organized offenses that require thorough investigation, prosecution, and appropriate penalties.

Ambassador Sadek pointed out that for years, Uganda and the surrounding region lacked the forensic tools needed to identify wildlife and timber species, despite illegal logging being a major cross-border crime. Without scientific evidence, many cases fail in court, allowing criminal networks to continue operating.

This new laboratory fills that gap by offering advanced forensic services, including timber DNA analysis to precisely identify species and trace their origins. It also adheres to an international Quality Management System to ensure that evidence is reliable and admissible in court.

Mr. David Musingo, Commissioner Community Conservation and Ex Situ Wildlife Services, highlighted the laboratory’s impact on conservation, stating, “This facility enhances our ability to connect scientific research directly with law enforcement. It equips Uganda with the tools to investigate wildlife crimes more effectively and secure convictions that were previously difficult due to lack of credible evidence.”

The establishment of the Uganda Wildlife and Timber Forensics Laboratory represents a vital move toward strengthening the rule of law, preserving biodiversity, and protecting Uganda’s natural heritage for future generations.

This project is a result of strong collaboration between UWA, the Ministry of Water and Environment, and international partners. Besides infrastructure, it also focuses on training and capacity building to ensure long-term success.

Early outcomes are already visible, with cases that had previously stalled now advancing to court and leading to convictions. In the coming months, the laboratory will fully implement timber DNA analysis, further enhancing Uganda’s capacity to combat forest-related crimes.

The official opening was attended by key figures, including Dr. Alfred Okot, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water and Environment, representatives from the Danish Embassy, UNODC, TRACE, the British High Commission, and members of the judiciary such as Her Worship Gladys Kamasanyu.