In the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s Nkuringo sector, a young man named Alishaba Ponsiano is making a name for himself as a talented wood carver and artist. Inspired by his parents, who used to create intricate gorilla sculptures from wood, Alishaba has turned his passion into a career, thanks to the booming tourism industry in his local community.
Growing up in Mukoozi village, Alishaba watched as tourists flocked to see the majestic mountain gorillas, bringing with them a desire for local handicrafts and souvenirs. His parents’ wood carvings were in high demand, and Alishaba was fascinated by their skill and creativity. Despite struggling to afford university, Alishaba pursued training in tourism and later returned to his roots, honing his artistic skills.
Today, Alishaba spends his days creating beautiful wooden sculptures, including stunning gorilla figures, using local trees like Musambya and natural materials like flower petals for the eyes. He sells his artwork to tourists passing through the village, hoping to make a sale at least once a week.
However, Alishaba faces challenges, including limited tools and resources, which hinder his ability to produce more stock and meet the demand from visitors. Despite these obstacles, he remains optimistic, knowing that tourism has given him a platform to share his talent and contribute to the conservation of the mountain gorillas.
By supporting local artisans like Alishaba, tourists are directly contributing to the conservation efforts in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The income generated from tourism helps to protect the gorillas’ habitat and supports community development projects, ensuring that the benefits of tourism are shared equitably.
Alishaba’s story is a testament to the power of tourism in creating employment opportunities and promoting conservation. As he continues to create beautiful artwork, he also teaches younger Ugandans, including orphans and out-of-school children, passing on his skills and inspiring the next generation of artists and conservationists.
When you visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, be sure to stop by Mukoozi village and support Alishaba’s artwork. Your purchase will not only take home a unique souvenir but also contribute to the conservation of the magnificent mountain gorillas and the empowerment of local communities.