The Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) has officially merged with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), marking a major step in streamlining operations within the country’s wildlife sector. This strategic move aims to eliminate service duplication, cut government spending by over one trillion shillings, and strengthen conservation efforts nationwide.
Commonly known as Entebbe Zoo, UWEC has been a pillar of Uganda’s conservation landscape. Situated on the northern shores of Lake Victoria, it was originally established in 1952 as a sanctuary for injured, orphaned, and rescued wild animals. Over the years, it evolved from a traditional zoo in the 1960s to a conservation trust in 1994, shifting its focus to education, wildlife rescue, and rehabilitation.
UWEC has played a crucial role in raising public awareness about Uganda’s rich biodiversity, particularly among young people. Through hands-on experiences like “Behind the Scenes” tours, “Keeper for a Day” programs, and the “Chimpanzee Close-Up” experience, visitors have gained deeper insights into animal care and conservation challenges. These programs have not only entertained but also inspired a greater appreciation for wildlife protection.
The merger between Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) was implemented under the government’s Rationalization of Government Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX) program, aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing duplication in public service.
By combining UWA’s expertise in managing national parks, wildlife reserves, and protected areas with UWEC’s strengths in wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and public education, this merger is designed to create a more streamlined and effective approach to wildlife conservation.
The unified entity will ensure better coordination in conserving biodiversity, promoting sustainable tourism, and raising public awareness of Uganda’s wildlife heritage, ultimately contributing to more efficient use of public resources while achieving the country’s conservation goals.
State Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities Martin Mugarra praised the milestone, emphasizing the need to maintain UWEC’s success in attracting visitors. He encouraged UWA to build on this momentum and announced that the outgoing UWEC Board of Trustees members would be appointed as honorary wardens in recognition of their contributions to conservation.
“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.
Doreen Katusiime, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, commended UWEC for its outstanding achievements, calling it a source of national pride. She urged UWA to strengthen conservation frameworks and ensure responsible management of Uganda’s natural resources.
“This merger demonstrates 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.
Professor James Kalema, Chairman of UWA’s Board of Trustees, called for unity among stakeholders, highlighting that collaboration is key to a future where conservation and community development go hand in hand.
“I want to assure you that we approach this transition with a deep sense of responsibility. We are committed to making this merger as seamless as possible, ensuring that the vision and mission of both UWA and UWEC are preserved and strengthened. I encourage all of us to embrace this change as an opportunity to work together to achieve even greater results for wildlife conservation in Uganda,” he said.
Dr. James Musinguzi, the outgoing Executive Director of UWEC, expressed gratitude to the ministers, technical staff, and the UWEC Board of Trustees for their unwavering support. Now serving as UWA’s Director of Community Conservation, he pledged to support incoming Chief Warden David Musingo in overseeing the newly formed UWEC Conservation Area.
Reflecting on UWEC’s journey, Benon Katumba Sebina, the outgoing Chairman of the UWEC Board of Trustees, noted the institution’s remarkable transformation since 2017. Under his leadership, UWEC evolved from a small animal orphanage and struggling zoo into a globally recognized conservation institution.
As Uganda embarks on this new chapter in wildlife conservation, the merger between UWEC and UWA is expected to enhance efficiency, improve conservation education, and reinforce the country’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage for future generations.