On April 28, 2025, Dr. James Musinguzi, Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), was unanimously elected as the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees for the Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Trust (BMCT). The election took place at Forest Cottages in Naguru, Kampala. Dr. Musinguzi will serve a renewable three-year term, assuming leadership during a pivotal period marked by a national mountain gorilla census in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
A Proven Conservation Leader
Dr. Musinguzi brings over 15 years of experience in wildlife conservation and community engagement. Before his current role at UWA, he served as the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), where he significantly increased visitor numbers and revenue, enhancing conservation education and wildlife rescue programs. Following the merger of UWEC and UWA in October 2024, he was appointed Director of Community Conservation and Ex Situ Wildlife Services, focusing on integrating community development with conservation efforts.
BMCT’s Mission and Vision
Established in 1994, the Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Trust aims to conserve the biodiversity of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The Trust invests in community development projects, supports research and ecological monitoring, funds park management and protection, and runs programs to raise conservation awareness.
Strategic Leadership at a Critical Time
Dr. Musinguzi’s appointment comes as Uganda undertakes a comprehensive mountain gorilla census in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. His extensive background in conservation and community engagement positions him to lead BMCT in aligning conservation efforts with community development, ensuring the protection of critical habitats and the well-being of local communities.
As Chairperson, Dr. Musinguzi is expected to strengthen partnerships between conservation stakeholders and local communities, enhancing the effectiveness of BMCT’s initiatives. His leadership is anticipated to foster sustainable conservation strategies that benefit both biodiversity and the livelihoods of people living around these vital protected areas.
