The Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) has officially merged with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) following a government decision to merge some agencies in a rationalization spree aimed at reducing government expenditure.
This particular merger marks a significant shift in the country’s wildlife management framework.
This merger, part of Uganda’s broader Rationalization of Government Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX) program, was formalized during a symbolic handover ceremony held on October 18, 2024 at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel, where UWEC’s Board of Trustees transferred its mandate to UWA’s Board.
The move aims to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and enhance Uganda’s conservation and tourism sectors.
Historically, UWEC, established in 1994 as a replacement for the Entebbe Zoo, played a crucial role in wildlife rescue, conservation education, and rehabilitation efforts.
Over the years, the institution gained international recognition for its conservation efforts, especially in captive breeding programs for endangered species.
However, the center also faced challenges, particularly a shortage of technical personnel and limited funding for conservation education.
The merger aims to address these challenges by consolidating resources and expertise. The integration of UWEC’s public engagement strategies with UWA’s operational capacities is expected to strengthen Uganda’s conservation efforts.
Key stakeholders, including Minister of State for Tourism Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, lauded the merger as an essential step toward enhancing wildlife management and promoting sustainable tourism in the country.
David Musingo, previously the head of conservation training at UWEC, has been appointed the Chief Warden of the newly established Entebbe Community Conservation Area.
This area will oversee not only the former UWEC premises but also the management of the Entebbe Botanical Gardens and other regional wildlife education centers.
The merger’s implications extend beyond Uganda’s borders, drawing comparisons with neighboring countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda, which also have robust wildlife conservation and tourism sectors.
In Kenya, for example, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) functions similarly to UWA, integrating conservation with public engagement and tourism.
Rwanda has made significant strides in eco-tourism and wildlife conservation, especially with its renowned mountain gorilla programs, while Tanzania continues to benefit from its expansive national parks. Uganda’s new unified structure positions it to compete more effectively within the East African tourism market.
The handover event also featured remarks from several key officials. Benon Katumba Sebina, the outgoing UWEC Board Chairman, reflected on UWEC’s transformation and urged UWA to maintain the center’s legacy of excellence.
James Musinguzi, UWEC’s former Executive Director, who now serves as UWA’s Director of Community Conservation, highlighted the need for improved staff remuneration and the completion of critical infrastructure projects.