Lucky P
Local leaders have called on the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to expand livelihood and employment opportunities for communities neighboring Kibale National Park through projects such as beekeeping, fish farming, and other income-generating activities.
The appeal was made by the Kabarole district chairperson Ruben Kimome while officially opening a stakeholders’ workshop for local leaders neighboring Kibale National Park at Kitumba District Headquarters. The meeting brought together political leaders and technical officers from Kiko, Hakibale, Rutete, and Karagura sub-counties to discuss community development and wildlife conservation.
Kimome emphasized the need for UWA and local leaders to identify and support sustainable projects that can improve household incomes and enhance the welfare of communities living near the park. He noted that such initiatives would help reduce poverty while strengthening the relationship between conservation authorities and local residents.
He also urged both local leaders and UWA officials to uphold transparency and accountability in the implementation of community projects and conservation programs.
Speaking at the same event, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kabarole Mike Mukiibi, commended UWA for developing a 10-year strategic plan aimed at addressing challenges faced by communities living near national parks and other protected wildlife areas.
Peaceful coexisitence
Mukiibi encouraged residents to protect wildlife and coexist peacefully with animals, noting that wildlife remains a valuable national resource and a major contributor to Uganda’s tourism sector and economic growth.
Participants at the workshop discussed ways of strengthening collaboration between communities and conservation authorities to ensure that local residents benefit from conservation efforts while minimizing human-wildlife conflicts.
The stakeholders expressed optimism that increased investment in community livelihood projects would improve living standards and promote sustainable conservation around Kibale National Park.