KAMPALA — The Uganda Wildlife Authority (Uganda Wildlife Authority) has officially launched its Strategic Plan (2026–2030) alongside new Service Delivery Standards and a Client Charter, setting out an ambitious roadmap aimed at strengthening conservation, improving service delivery, and modernising wildlife protection systems.
The launch event highlighted major achievements under the previous strategic cycle and outlined new priorities, including expanded use of technology, enhanced community engagement, and improved institutional accountability.
Speaking at the event, Richard Kapere, Assistant Commissioner for Conservation Planning, outlined key milestones achieved over the previous strategic period.
“We recorded over 114,000 anti-poaching patrols, which led to the recovery of 156,823 poaching implements and the arrest of 11,597 suspects,” he said.
He added that conservation efforts had also focused heavily on habitat restoration. “We cleared 13,625 hectares of invasive species, restored 3,825 hectares of degraded habitats, recovered 374 hectares of encroached land in the Mount Elgon Conservation Area, and maintained 1,153 kilometres of fire lines,” Kapere said.
He emphasised that these achievements reflect UWA’s strong commitment to protecting Uganda’s wildlife and ecosystems through law enforcement and ecological restoration.
The Executive Director of UWA, Dr. James Musinguzi, said the new strategic plan will significantly transform conservation operations through technology and innovation.
“The new strategic plan will leverage technology, including drones, forensic science, GIS, and digital systems, to strengthen anti-poaching efforts, improve wildlife protection, and enhance conservation management,” he said.
Dr. Musinguzi also highlighted plans to diversify tourism products to boost conservation-linked revenue. “We shall develop new tourism products such as water-based tourism using boats, butterfly tourism, and other niche attractions to increase Uganda’s tourism appeal,” he said.
He added that the plan will deepen collaboration with communities and stakeholders. “The new strategic plan will strengthen collaboration with communities and stakeholders, promote wildlife conservation beyond protected areas, and support sustainable livelihoods while improving compliance with national and international conservation commitments,” he said.
UWA Commissioner for Human Resources, Susan Muhumuza Nyatia, underscored the importance of accountability and client responsiveness. “Effective client feedback and communication are critical in improving service delivery,” she said.
She added that internal oversight mechanisms will be strengthened. “The Internal Audit function will play a key role in monitoring compliance with the Service Delivery Standards and strengthening integrity and transparency within the Authority,” she said.
She further emphasised UWA’s commitment to professionalism and ethical conduct. “We are committed to confidentiality and assurance in handling client information, and we encourage the use of whistleblower mechanisms to report misconduct without fear of retaliation,” she said.
Acting Commissioner for Finance, Mwanje, described the new standards as a shared institutional commitment. “The Service Delivery Standards are a commitment to clients and a shared responsibility among UWA, its staff, and stakeholders,” he said.
He added that the reforms will strengthen institutional credibility. “They reinforce our commitment to accountability, transparency, and credibility in service delivery. This launch marks another milestone in strengthening institutional performance,” Mwanje said.
Assistant Commissioner for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Justus Mpirirwe, highlighted specific service delivery targets. “The Service Delivery Standards require that clients at all UWA park gates be attended to within 10 minutes, underscoring our commitment to timely and quality service,” he said.
Delivering the chief guest remarks, Jane Kyarisiima Mwesiga, Deputy Head of Public Service, commended UWA for the milestone and urged broader impact. “This plan should aim at increasing public value for present and future generations,” she said.
She also encouraged stronger collaboration with local governments. “UWA should work closely with local governments in implementing this strategy and promoting conservation awareness at the grassroots,” she added.
Representing the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Geoffrey Sseremba, Undersecretary, congratulated UWA leadership.
“I congratulate the Board of Trustees for this milestone and commend the importance of the Strategic Plan and Service Delivery Standards as tools for improved service delivery,” he said.
He also acknowledged support from the Ministry of Public Service. “We appreciate the support from the Public Service in developing these guidelines, which will strengthen institutional efficiency,” he said.
Representing the UWA Board Chair, Dr. Stella Acaye Atim, emphasised professionalism and implementation. “Key priorities in this strategic plan include strengthening partnerships, upholding professionalism among staff, and ensuring that these institutional documents are not just policy papers but practical tools for effective work,” she said.
The new strategic framework is expected to guide Uganda’s conservation agenda through 2030, focusing on stronger enforcement, community inclusion, tourism diversification, and improved service delivery across all protected areas.
