UWEC, UWA Merger Complete: A New Era for Uganda’s Wildlife Management

The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) has officially merged with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

The merger is part of the government’s Rationalization of Government Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX) program, aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency.

The merger was formalised on Thursday at Sheraton Hotel Kampala, where the UWEC Board of Trustees transferred its mandate to the UWA Board.

As part of the merger, UWEC has been re-designated as the Entebbe Community Conservation Area. The former head of conservation training at UWEC, David Musingo, has been appointed the Chief Warden of the site.

The Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, hailed the merger as a timely initiative to enhance Uganda’s wildlife management 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, we are creating a stronger institution to serve both our wildlife and our people,” he said.

He encouraged UWA to integrate UWEC’s staff and collaborate effectively as one team. “I want 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,” he emphasized.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of the National Conservation Education Strategy in raising awareness, particularly among the youth. “This strategy will play a vital role in educating Ugandans about the value of wildlife and fostering a sense of responsibility towards conserving our natural heritage for future generations,” he added.

Doreen Katusiime, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the merger.

She emphasized the importance of streamlining operations to enhance efficiency in wildlife conservation. “This merger exemplifies the government’s dedication to improving the effectiveness of our public institutions through the RAPEX program,” she noted.