Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has handed over cheques worth Shs4.4 billion under the revenue sharing scheme to communities surrounding Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Area.
The cheques were handed over by the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu to the district leaders of Kisoro, Kanungu and Rubanda at the Bwindi Conservation Area head office in Buhoma.
“Government appreciates the contribution of communities neighboring protected areas in the conservation of wildlife in Uganda.” He said Prof. Kamuntu.
“We are giving this money in recognition of the important role that communities play in our conservation efforts; we believe that we cannot effectively conserve wildlife without the support of the communities. I want to use this opportunity to thank you all for rallying behind UWA in conserving the two gorilla parks. It is my humble appeal to you that you continue with this support to conservation and ensure that all forms of illegal wildlife activities, are eliminated” he said.
Prof. Kamuntu further gave assurances that Uganda is safe for visitors and warned that anyone who tries to endanger tourists who come to Uganda will be dealt with according to the law.
He said the money disbursed under the revenue sharing scheme keeps on increasing because of the ever increasing number of tourists who visit the parks to track gorillas and urged them to work closely with the park management by ensuring that wrong elements do not infiltrate to parks so that visitor numbers keep on increasing.
“As government, we are committed to improving the infrastructure and facilities for tourism in all tourism destinations. I am glad that UWA, with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has been able to build this magnificent Visitor Information Centre which I have officially commissioned this morning”
The UWA Executive Director Sam Mwandha called for adequate monitoring of the fund for it to be put to good use. “With adequate monitoring, it is our hope that the funds will be put to good use and be spent in accordance with the approved projects so that the benefit the intended people” he said.
He said UWA will continue to improve tourism facilities in all conservation areas in order to offer visitors the best experience.
