UWA Heightens Security in Protected Areas after Death of Ranger in Kidepo

Kampala – December 8th, 2022. Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has heightened security in all protected areas by deploying additional personnel in strategic locations to ensure the safety of both humans and wildlife is not compromised in any way.

This comes after an unfortunate incident in which Private Okawa Charles, a ranger, and one poacher died during an encounter in a remote area of Kidepo Valley National Park on December 5, 2022.

In light of the unfortunate and uncommon incident, the management of Uganda Wildlife Authority has reviewed security measures in all protected areas with a view to establishing if there are any gaps and taking the necessary action immediately.

Executive Director Sam Mwandha has said that whereas the parks are safe, there is no need to take chances.

“Our parks are safe as has always been the case but we don’t want to take any chances. As a precautionary measure, we are heightening security in all protected areas to ensure the safety of our visitors.”

Mwandha further said that UWA is working closely with other agencies of government like Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces to ensure that the Kidepo side of the border with South Sudan is secured.

UWA has taken a number of other measures aimed at protecting visitors, staff and wildlife from any form of harm.

These include; strengthening the intelligence in and outside protected areas, intensifying vehicle and foot patrols, engaging district and community leaders and intensifying community sensitization.

“The safety of persons inside protected areas is our priority and we will stop at nothing in ensuring that this is achieved.”

We are saddened by the death of our ranger in Kidepo Valley National Park. See full statement below; pic.twitter.com/g2kI0krzWV

— Uganda Wildlife Authority (@ugwildlife) December 6, 2022