In the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, is a remarkable conservation success story.
A group of reformed poachers, once notorious for their illegal activities, have transformed their lives and are now working as porters, carrying tourists on a stretcher and their belongings through the dense forest.
Atugawire Elias, the chairman of Bwindi Reformed Poachers’ Association, shares his personal story of transformation.
“I wasn’t a poacher, but my grandfather was. I joined pottering while still in school due to lack of school fees. I’m a single orphan, and I couldn’t afford to finish my course.” Through his newfound work as a porter, Elias has not only completed his education but has also become a leader in the association.
The association, comprising 96 members, has been in operation since 1992. They work on a rotation basis, carrying tourists and their belongings through the forest.
The porters have organized themselves into a registered company, with each member contributing to the group’s investments and assets.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this conservation success story is the porters’ innovative approach to carrying tourists. They have designed a stretcher, fondly referred to as the “African helicopter,” which allows them to transport people safely and comfortably through the forest.
However, their work is not without challenges. Elias mentions that sometimes tourists request discounts, which can be a challenge for the porters. Additionally, carrying people with extreme weights and distances can be physically demanding.
Despite these challenges, the porters take great pride in their work and have never had an accident.
They have carried tourists from all over the world, including those with disabilities, and have received positive feedback.
The association’s future plan is to be more organized and expand their projects to employ more people from the local community.
Elias envisions a future where conservation and tourism can coexist, benefiting both the local community and the environment.
This conservation success story is a testament to the power of transformation and the impact that dedicated individuals can have on their communities.
From poachers to porters, these individuals have changed their lives and are now contributing to the conservation of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
