The government of Uganda through the Ministry of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities, has launched the National Conservation Education Strategy to increase awareness and encourage public participation in conservation efforts, especially among the youth.
Speaking at the launch and completion of the merger of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), the Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, said the strategy will be essential in educating Ugandans about the value of wildlife and instilling a sense of responsibility toward conserving our natural heritage for future generations.
Mugarra praised the merger as a timely initiative that will enhance Uganda’s conservation capacity and public engagement.
“This merger is critical to improving our wildlife management, enhancing public education, and promoting sustainable tourism. By combining UWA’s operational expertise with UWEC’s public outreach and education, we are creating a stronger institution to better serve our wildlife and our people,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of building strong collaboration and noted, “I want to hear more progress as a result of this merger. This partnership must deliver tangible improvements in our conservation efforts and public engagement.”
The Permanent Secretary Ministry of Tourism, Doreen Katusiime, highlighted the importance of streamlining operations to ensure efficiency and maximize resources in wildlife conservation efforts.
“This merger exemplifies the government’s dedication to enhancing the effectiveness of our public institutions through the Rationalization of Government Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX) program,” she noted.
Prof. James Kalema the Chairman of UWA Board of Trustees, expressed gratitude to the outgoing UWEC Board of Trustees and reassured them that UWA approaches this merger with care and a sense of responsibility.
The outgoing Chairman of the UWEC Board of Trustees, Benon Sebina-Katumba, reflected on UWEC’s contributions over the years, expressing confidence in the continued success of its mission under UWA’s leadership.
Dr. James Musinguzi, the outgoing Executive Director of UWEC, outlined UWEC’s achievements over the years and called on UWA’s management to consolidate the gains and build on them to achieve more.
He stressed the importance of maintaining UWEC’s reputation as a center of excellence in conservation education.
The event was attended by the former Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, now Senior Presidential Advisor on Economics, Manifesto Implementation, and Member of Cabinet, Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, as well as Board members and staff from both UWA and UWEC, conservation partners, and representatives from the tourism private sector under the Uganda Tourism Association, among others.
