The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has officially opened a new Kibale Conservation Education Centre in Mainaro Village, Kamwenge District. The UGX 600 million facility is designed to train youth and local communities in conservation, enhance research opportunities for both local and international students, promote tourism, and protect wildlife habitats.
The milestone was made possible through a long-standing partnership with Face the Future and Prima Klima, two global leaders in forest restoration. Together, they have played a crucial role in reversing the effects of deforestation in Kibale National Park and surrounding areas.
Since 1994, projects led by these partners have successfully restored 7,152 hectares through native tree planting and an additional 2,593 hectares through natural regeneration. Beyond ecological restoration, these initiatives have created hundreds of employment opportunities for communities in Kamwenge and Kabarole districts, offering sustainable livelihoods while preserving Uganda’s rich biodiversity.
Speaking at the launch, UWA Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi, commended the partners for their unwavering commitment:
“This facility will engage citizens, especially youth, in education and conservation, driving tourism and revenue while safeguarding our heritage.”
The partners also revealed that they have already secured a grant to restore over 800 hectares in Katungulu, expanding the scope of conservation work in the region.
The opening of the Kibale Conservation Education Centre marks a new chapter in Uganda’s conservation journey, providing a hub where science, community participation, and tourism development intersect. With continued collaboration, it is expected to inspire the next generation of conservationists and ensure that Kibale remains a global model for biodiversity protection.
