The Role of UWA in Gorilla Conservation

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) was established in August 1996 through the Uganda Wildlife Statute, which later became an Act of Parliament. It was formed by merging the Uganda National Parks Department with the Uganda Game and Fisheries Department. Since its inception, UWA has served as the government agency responsible for managing and protecting Uganda’s wildlife, both within and outside protected areas. Operating under the supervision of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, the authority has played a central role in conserving Uganda’s unique biodiversity, including the endangered mountain gorillas. By integrating wildlife protection with community engagement and sustainable tourism, UWA ensures that both nature and people benefit from conservation efforts.

Key Roles in Gorilla and Wildlife Conservation

Managing Protected Areas

One of UWA’s primary responsibilities is overseeing Uganda’s national parks, wildlife reserves, and sanctuaries. This includes Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which are home to endangered mountain gorillas. By maintaining the ecological integrity of these protected areas, UWA provides safe habitats where gorillas and other wildlife can thrive.

Community Engagement

UWA recognizes that successful conservation depends on local support. Therefore, the authority actively collaborates with communities living near protected areas. These partnerships foster coexistence between people and wildlife while offering financial incentives through revenue-sharing programs generated from tourism activities.

Law Enforcement

Another critical aspect of UWA’s work is enforcing wildlife laws and regulations. Through rigorous anti-poaching measures and efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade and habitat destruction, the authority safeguards vulnerable gorilla populations from human threats.

Promoting Conservation Awareness

Education and outreach programs are also central to UWA’s strategy. By raising awareness about the ecological, cultural, and economic value of wildlife, these initiatives encourage Ugandans and visitors alike to support conservation efforts, particularly the protection of mountain gorillas.

Managing Problem Animals

In addition, UWA addresses conflicts between humans and wildlife. By implementing strategies to manage animals that pose risks to human life or property, the authority balances the safety of local communities with the well-being of wildlife.

Collaborative Management

UWA works hand in hand with local communities, the private sector, and international partners. This collaborative approach ensures that conservation strategies are effective, sustainable, and inclusive, benefiting both humans and wildlife.

Leadership and Mission

Currently, Dr. James Musinguzi serves as the Executive Director of UWA, having taken over in April 2025. Previously, he directed the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Center. The mission of UWA is to conserve and sustainably manage protected areas in partnership with local communities and stakeholders, ensuring benefits for both Ugandans and the global community. The authority focuses on three main pillars: conservation, economic development, and community partnerships. By protecting diverse ecosystems, promoting sustainable tourism, and engaging communities in conservation initiatives, UWA strives to safeguard Uganda’s natural heritage, including its endangered gorillas.

UWA and Uganda’s Wildlife Landscape

UWA is renowned for managing Uganda’s rich wildlife and protected areas. Its portfolio includes ten national parks, twelve wildlife reserves, and thirteen sanctuaries. Beyond gorillas, UWA protects elephants, zebras, buffaloes, and countless other species, ensuring that Uganda’s biodiversity remains vibrant and resilient. Some notable protected areas include:

• Murchison Falls National Park: The largest park in Uganda, spanning 3,840 square kilometers.

• Budongo Forest: Famous for chimpanzees and diverse ecosystems.

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Uganda’s smallest national park, yet crucial for gorilla conservation.

• Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve: A small but biodiverse reserve, home to a significant buffalo population.

Legal Framework

UWA operates under the Uganda Wildlife Protection Act, first enacted in 1996 and amended in 2019. This law provides the legal foundation for sustainable wildlife management, protection of endangered and endemic species, and regulation of problem animal control, striking a balance between human and wildlife interests.

Through these multifaceted efforts, the Uganda Wildlife Authority continues to be a cornerstone of wildlife conservation in Uganda, safeguarding the future of mountain gorillas and other endangered species while promoting sustainable coexistence with local communities.