A man has been sentenced to nine years in prison for killing protected wildlife species in Kasese district, in a case that underscores Uganda’s commitment to protecting its wildlife and natural heritage.
The Kasese Chief Magistrate, Her Worship Ojok Betty, handed down the sentence on October 4, 2024, to Mulengya Yowasi, who pleaded guilty to killing several protected animals. Yowasi, who was also fined UGX 8 million, was arrested by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) on June 26, 2024, in Iboga village, Kitswamba sub-county, after a tip-off from local community members.
Upon his arrest, Yowasi was found in possession of two buffalo horns, four buffalo hooves, three kilograms of buffalo meat, two kilograms of warthog meat, and a spear. His arrest was part of a coordinated effort between the UPDF, Uganda Police, and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
In court, UWA Prosecutor Ngene Reuben presented evidence demonstrating how Yowasi’s actions harmed Uganda’s conservation efforts and its economy.
“The animals killed by Yowasi are critical prey for carnivores such as lions and leopards. Depleting their prey forces these predators to attack livestock, increasing human-wildlife conflict and adding to government compensation costs,” Ngene emphasized.
He urged the court to hand down a strong sentence to deter other would-be offenders.
Yowasi, represented by Counsel Kanyonyi Luke, sought leniency, but the court ruled firmly against his plea. Chief Magistrate Ojok Betty said, “Uganda’s wildlife is integral to the country’s ecological balance and tourism industry. Wildlife crimes such as these will not be tolerated.”
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) commended the judiciary, UPDF, police, and local communities for their efforts in supporting conservation and combating illegal wildlife activities.
“This sentence serves as a strong signal to deter future offenders. Through ongoing campaigns and enhanced enforcement efforts, we remain steadfast in our mission to protect endangered species and preserve the country’s rich biodiversity,” the UWA stated in a press release.
The UWA reaffirmed its commitment to working with security agencies and communities to safeguard Uganda’s wildlife, noting that poaching and illegal wildlife trade threaten the country’s conservation efforts and undermine the significant role that wildlife plays in the economy, particularly through tourism.
