The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is set to establish regional conservation centres across the country to reduce congestion at Entebbe Zoo and boost tourism.
This comes after the merger with the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) known as Entebbe Zoo, creating a unified approach to conservation education and wildlife management.
Dr James Musinguzi, the UWA Executive Director noted that the initiative aims to provide enough space for breeding by relocating highly populated animal species bred at the main centre to these satellite zoos.
According to him, this will create space at Entebbe, where the number of exhibits currently has to be controlled.
“The regional centres are expected to reduce congestion at Entebbe Zoo by relocating animals and expanding wildlife attractions across Uganda, which aligns with our focus on spreading tourism benefits and improving wildlife protection,” Musinguzi said.
Construction of the Mbale city zoo is already underway and animals are expected to be moved there by July.
David Musingo, UWEC chief warden mentioned that Mbale was chosen for its strategic location.
Each regional center has a budget of about 25 billion shillings and will utilize urban forest reserves in collaboration with the National Forestry Authority (NFA).
The government has secured 60 acres of land in various regions including Mbarara, Mbale, Gulu, and Kyenjojo to develop satellite wildlife centres similar to the present facility.
The centers will also serve as education hubs in addition to showcasing wild life, promoting conservation awareness and tourism in the region.