Ramsar Sites
Uganda boasts a number of wetlands that have been listed as Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar convention.
All these sites are recognized by BirdLife International as Important Bird Areas as well as providing a vital habitat for other threatened plants and animals.
This unique habitat lies at the convergence of two biological zones, giving it very high biodiversity.
It supports globally threatened species of birds such as the Papyrus Yellow Warbler and Shoebill, and two of the endangered cichlid fish species which have become extinct in the main lakes.
It is the only area in Uganda in which the impala is found.
The site stretches from the top of Murchison Falls to the delta at its confluence with Lake Albert. The delta forms a shallow area that is important for water birds, especially the shoebill, pelicans, darters & various heron species. It is also an important spawning & breeding ground for Lake Albert fisheries, containing indigenous fish species, & it forms a feeding and watering refuge for wildlife during dry seasons.
Conserving for generations
Word from the Executive Director
Welcome to the official website of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). I am honored to serve as the Executive Director of this remarkable institution, entrusted with the stewardship of Uganda’s unique and diverse wildlife heritage.
Uganda’s protected areas are home to some of the world’s most iconic species and landscapes, from the mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi, to the roaring waterfalls of Murchison, the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, and the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains. These natural wonders are not only vital to our national identity but also to our economy, environment, and global biodiversity.
At UWA, we are committed to conserving wildlife and ecosystems through inclusive, innovative, and science-led approaches. We place a strong emphasis on community involvement, tourism development, environmental education, and combating wildlife crime. Our mandate goes beyond protection, it includes ensuring that wildlife conservation contributes to the well-being of communities and the sustainable development of our nation.
This website is a gateway to understanding our work, accessing real-time information, and discovering how you can support conservation efforts. Whether you are a tourist, researcher, investor, conservation partner, or passionate citizen, we invite you to engage with us and be part of this shared responsibility.
Together, let us ensure that Uganda’s wildlife and wild places continue to thrive for us and for future generations.
Conserving for Generations
Dr. James Musinguzi, PhD
Executive Director
