Kampala — The Uganda Wildlife Authority has officially inaugurated a new cohort of Honorary Wildlife Officers in a move aimed at strengthening wildlife conservation, enhancing community participation, and supporting sustainable tourism development across the country.
The inauguration took place during the Annual General Meeting of Honorary Wildlife Officers, which brought together conservation stakeholders, wildlife experts, and sector leaders to assess progress and reinforce collaboration in protecting Uganda’s natural heritage.
Speaking at the event, UWA Executive Director James Musinguzi described the Honorary Wildlife Officers programme as a critical bridge between conservation institutions and local communities.
He noted that the initiative, established under the Uganda Wildlife Act, continues to play an important role in conservation through community mobilisation, environmental awareness, intelligence sharing, and the promotion of responsible stewardship of natural resources.
Dr Musinguzi said the inauguration of new officers presents an opportunity to deepen collaboration and expand conservation outreach across Uganda.
“The Honorary Wildlife Officers remain a vital component in our conservation framework because they help strengthen the relationship between communities and wildlife institutions,” he said.
The Authority also highlighted ongoing investments aimed at improving conservation effectiveness and field operations. These include expansion of visitor information centres, construction of ranger outposts and park gates, as well as acquisition of modern operational equipment.
UWA further revealed plans to receive more than 50 Land Cruiser vehicles to improve mobility for field teams and enhance surveillance and anti-poaching operations across protected areas.
On conservation progress, officials pointed to ongoing wildlife census exercises, expansion of protected areas, and the introduction of new tourism experiences, particularly around chimpanzee habitats.
However, the Authority acknowledged persistent challenges, including human-wildlife conflict and the spread of invasive species, which continue to affect conservation efforts in several parts of the country.
UWA Board Chairperson James Karema emphasized the importance of community involvement in ensuring sustainable conservation outcomes.
He urged the newly inaugurated Honorary Wildlife Officers to actively champion conservation awareness, promote responsible use of natural resources, and strengthen cooperation between local communities and conservation agencies.
Officials reiterated that the Honorary Wildlife Officers programme remains a key pillar in safeguarding Uganda’s biodiversity while supporting tourism growth and broader national development goals.