Dr James Musinguzi Appointed New UWA Executive Director

Kampala, February 6, 2025 – The Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, has appointed Dr. James Musinguzi as the new Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), effective April 01, 2025.

He will succeed Sam Mwandha who retires on March 31, 2025, after serving as Executive Director since 2018.

Dr Musinguzi is a dedicated conservationist with extensive experience in wildlife management, conservation education, and community conservation among many others.

He previously served as the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), where he championed conservation awareness, wildlife rescue, and public engagement.

Following the merger of UWEC and UWA, he was appointed Director of Community Conservation and Ex Situ Wildlife Services, a position he held since October 2024.

“As Mwandha retires, UWA acknowledges his outstanding leadership over the past seven years, during which he enhanced wildlife protection, strengthened community conservation efforts, expanded anti-poaching initiatives, and improved the tourism potential of Uganda’s protected areas,” reads the statement released by Bashir Hangi, UWA Manager Communication & PR.

Mwandha’s tenure has left a lasting impact on Uganda’s conservation landscape, and UWA extends its deepest gratitude for his dedicated service.

“UWA congratulates Dr Musinguzi on his appointment and warmly welcomes him to the UWA family. We look forward to his leadership in advancing our mission to conserve and sustainably manage Uganda’s wildlife resources for present and future generations.”