Baryomunsi Tips Conservationists to Harness Digital Innovations and Technologies 

The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Chris Baryomunsi, has urged players in the conservation field to adopt digital innovations and technologies to foster conservation.

Baryomunsi revealed that the world has evolved with cutting-edge technologies which has called for more modern measures in the day-to-day running of activities.

“We have cutting-edge technologies that are driving the world. The world is moving very fast. So the question is how do we catch up with the rest of the world? How are we applying Artificial Intelligence, in conservation what are you doing? you must integrate technology in order for you to be efficient, and to have better results,” Baryomunsi said.

He added, “We have to work with you using the opportunities available to protect wildlife conservation, and management while harnessing digital innovations.”

Baryomunsi made the remarks at the National Wildlife Conservation Conference held in Kampala, where he officiated as the chief guest. The conference is part of the activities lined up ahead of the World Wildlife Day to be commemorated on March 3, in Kyenjonjo district. 

Daniel Ndizihiwe, the Manager for Wildlife and Protected Areas at the World Wide Fund for Nature Uganda (WWF), said there is a need for collaboration between NGOs and the government to drive technological advancement in conservation.

He revealed that WWF has been using modern technologies such as drones in the Rwenzori Mountains, which have enabled the Uganda Wildlife Authority to map out the glaciers and document some of the endangered species that were previously not monitored.

On his part Philip Kihunuro, Manager of Forest Restoration and Carbon Absorption Projects, said it is important to understand the connection between people and nature and how digital innovations and technologies ensure that habitants for wildlife and people are secured.

He added that technology can be used to determine forest loss, where restoration emphasis can be put. 

He noted that there is a population increase which has led to the climate question, he said technology can be used to determine an increase in human settlements which can inform human settlement design, among others.

Sam Mwandha the Executive Director of UWA, noted as an authority they have integrated all their operations with the new technologies to ease smooth running but also ease conservation efforts.

He noted they are using drones, satellite tracking, DNA barcoding, and cameras, that are giving real-time information to the rangers who swiftly act.

However, Mwandha said they are hindered by finances since the technology being used is expensive, and sometimes needs upgrades, and orientation, among others.