Kibale National Park, located in western Uganda, is a biodiversity hotspot boasting over 351 tree species, 70 mammal species, and 370 bird species. The park spans across 766 square kilometres, covering four districts: Kabarole, Kyenjojo, Kamwenge, and Kasese. Its unique geography creates a variety of habitats, including tropical rainforests, deciduous forests, and grasslands.
For three decades, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has been diligently restoring a significant portion of the degraded and destroyed forest cover in Kibale National Park. The area, spanning 10,000 hectares, was previously lost due to human settlements within the park. These human activities led to the migration of animals, with some reportedly relocating to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Kigenyi Richard, Chief Forest Warden Officer at Mainero in Kibale National Park Conservation Area, revealed that through the UWA Face project, 8,000 hectares of the 10,000 hectares have been successfully restored with indigenous trees. The remaining 2,000 hectares have been reserved for game corridors, wetlands, and other essential habitats.
“In 1994, the government sought funding to restore the area. We initiated the process by burning and then planting. Two years later, we consulted with experts who advised us on pioneer trees. Today, we witness the remarkable transformation from grassland to forest,” Kigenyi explained. “Our goal is to become a global conservation agency, and the return of wildlife has significantly supported the ecosystem.”
Kigenyi noted that the initial planting efforts focused on natural trees that take longer to grow, such as tending, which proved to be expensive and labour-intensive. To overcome these challenges, UWA mobilised partners to assist with planting. The organisation established the UWA FACE program, which aims to sustain the project through the sale of carbon credits.
“The restoration project has also contributed significantly to the eradication of invasive species in the southern and northern parts of the park. This success has led to habitat recovery and the return of wild animals, signalling a remarkable recovery. The project has also created employment opportunities for local communities surrounding the restoration area,” said John Justice Tibesigwa, the Chief Warden Kibale National Park.
The project has created employment opportunities for over 250 community members throughout the year. During peak seasons, an additional 250 individuals are hired to support the efforts. Kigenyi highlighted that 50% of the project’s revenue is allocated to the community, with 15% dedicated to improving livelihoods and 35% allocated to forest management.
“We use the funds to enhance their livelihoods. We’ve also provided various items, such as household milling machines, beehives, and boda bodas, to support their well-being,” Kigenyi added.
The restored forest cover is expected to play a vital role in promoting tourism and conservation within the national park. Kigenyi pointed out that the area now offers ideal opportunities for bird watching, with over 100 bird species present. Nature walks and wildlife viewing have also become increasingly popular.
However, human-wildlife conflict remains a significant challenge in Kibale National Park. To address this issue, Tibesigwa noted that UWA has introduced various interventions, including the construction of elephant detergent trenches and boardwalks. These physical barriers have proven effective in reducing human-wildlife conflicts.
For instance, Ngabirano David, chairperson of Isunga Central Village, Kasenga sub-county, expressed gratitude to UWA for these interventions, which have significantly reduced crop raiding by elephants. He noted that they would register close to 300 cases, however, these have significantly dropped to less than 20.
In addition to these physical barriers, UWA has also been providing water tanks to communities near the park, enabling them to store and harvest rainwater. This initiative, part of the IFPA CD Project, has benefited over 75 households, with an additional 25 tanks planned for distribution.
Kajumba Margret, a beneficiary from Isunga village, thanked UWA for the 5,000-liter water tank, which has improved her community’s access to clean water. She noted before they would cross to the park for water which was a risky adventure.
Tibesigwa noted that UWA’s conservation efforts in Kibale National Park have also focused on eradicating invasive species, recovering habitats, and promoting sustainable tourism. The park’s rich biodiversity, including its high concentration of primates, makes it an attractive destination for tourists.
He said Kibale National Park is considered the “Primate capital of the World,” with very high densities of climates and primate species.
“The restoration of Kibale National Park’s forest cover serves as a testament to UWA’s commitment to conservation and community development,” he said.
