The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has ushered in a new Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi, following a smooth handover ceremony held at the UWA headquarters in Kampala.
At the ceremony, outgoing Executive Director Sam Mwandha officially handed over instruments of power to Dr Musinguzi.
UWA Board of Trustees Chairperson, Professor James Kalema, praised Mwandha’s tenure, highlighting significant growth in visitor numbers and revenue, from 86 billion to nearly 170 billion Ugandan shillings annually.
“His commitment to transparency, integrity, and humility has been truly inspiring,” Prof. Kalema said. “We welcome the new Executive Director and wish Mwandha all the best in his future endeavors.”
Mwandha reflected on his tenure, noting expanded efforts in wildlife protection, ecological monitoring, habitat restoration, and species management.
He cited key achievements, including: “Infrastructure development, establishment of information centers and other infrastructure to support conservation efforts, enhanced partnerships with communities living near protected areas to address human-wildlife conflicts, Initiatives like revenue sharing with local districts, benefiting surrounding communities, were made smooth and transparent,”
Mwandha advised Dr. Musinguzi to work closely with stakeholders and partners, emphasizing their critical role in conservation.
He highlighted the significance of partnerships, citing over Shs 80 billion received from partners over the last seven years.
“I was doing a quick summary and we received over Shs 80 billion in the last 7 years from those partners we have put into consideration.”
In his remarks, Dr. Musinguzi outlined his plans, focusing on technology to combat poaching, invasive species, fostering conservation and partnerships with communities and speeding up compensation.
“We will deploy drones and helicopters for surveillance, find solutions for invasive species, and expedite compensation for those affected by wildlife,” he said.
Dr. Musinguzi called for cooperation from the UWA team and issued a stern warning to corrupt individuals and those collaborating with poachers.
The State Minister for Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra expressed confidence in Dr. Musinguzi’s expertise, saying, “His experience and success in leading UWEC will undoubtedly bring similar growth and development to UWA.”
He emphasized the importance of leadership and institutional growth, highlighting UWA’s potential to continue thriving under new leadership.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Doreen Katusiime, commended Mwandha’s contributions to conservation and tourism, welcoming Dr. Musinguzi and assuring him of support and guidance.
The ceremony also saw the pipping of senior managers, managers, and chief wardens.
Dignitaries in attendance included the President of the Uganda Tourism Association, Yogi Birigwa, Pearl Kakooza, Board Chairperson, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), accompanied by Bradford Ochieng, Acting CEO UTB, among others.