The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has officially merged with the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC).
The merger is part of the government’s Rationalization of Government Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX) program, aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency.
On Thursday at Sheraton Hotel Kampala, the merger was formalized where the UWEC Board of Trustees transferred its mandate to the UWA Board.
UWEC has been re-designated as the Entebbe Community Conservation Area as part of the merger. David Musingo the former head of conservation training at UWEC has been appointed the Chief Warden of the site.
Martin Mugarra Bahinduka the Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities hailed the merger as a timely initiative to enhance Uganda’s wildlife management and public engagement. He said that this merger is critical to improving their wildlife management, enhancing public education, and promoting sustainable tourism. By combining UWA’s operational expertise with UWEC’s public outreach, they are creating a stronger institution to serve both their wildlife and their people.
As one team, he encouraged UWA to integrate UWEC’s staff and collaborate effectively. He emphasized that he swant to see real progress as a result of this merger. It is essential that this partnership delivers tangible improvements in conservation efforts and public engagement.
“The importance of the National Conservation Education Strategy in raising awareness, particularly among the youth.” the minister highlighted. He added saying that this strategy will play a vital role in educating Ugandans about the value of wildlife and fostering a sense of responsibility towards conserving their natural heritage for future generations.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities Doreen Katusiime reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the merger.
To enhance efficiency in wildlife conservation, she emphasized the importance of streamlining operations.
She noted that this merger exemplifies the government’s dedication to improving the effectiveness of our public institutions through the RAPEX program.
Chairman of the UWA Board of Trustees Prof. James Kalema expressed gratitude to the outgoing UWEC Board and reassured them that UWA would handle the transition responsibly. He said that they approach this merger with care and a deep sense of responsibility. Their goal is to preserve and strengthen the vision and mission of both UWA and UWEC and to achieve even greater results for wildlife conservation in Uganda.
The outgoing Chairman of the UWEC Board of Trustees Benon Sebina-Katumba reflected on UWEC’s contributions to wildlife education and rescue. He confidently expressed himself that the centre’s work would continue to thrive under UWA’s leadership.
He remarked this merger ensuring that UWEC’s vital mission will not only continue but grow. Together, they are better equipped to protect Uganda’s natural heritage.
The outgoing Executive Director of UWEC Dr James Musinguzi highlighted the centre’s achievements over the years and urged UWA to build on these successes. He added saying that it has been an honour to lead UWEC. His confident this merger will lead to even greater success in protecting Uganda’s wildlife and educating the public on its importance. He hopes UWA will continue to make UWEC a centre of excellence in conservation education.
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