The National Conservation Awards were presented on March 3, 2025, in Lira City as part of the World Wildlife Day festivities.
Individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Uganda wildlife conservation are recognized with awards.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and the Planet,” emphasizes the importance of long-term financial solutions to conservation efforts.
Among those honored was Bosco Ogwang Edola, a well-known businessman from Lira City. UWA stated that he did a lot of conservation work as well as fighting poaching and illegal wildlife trade.
Alex Nyagalo, another award winner, has established a program to combat mountain gorilla poaching.
In addition, he has reformed 305 poachers. Muzuni Anxious was also recognized. He works as a porter and interpreter for tourists, among other things. Their awards are significant recognition for conservation efforts.
Some primary and secondary schools in Lango were recognized and awarded certificates for their consistent participation in wildlife conservation activities.
Lango College, Comboni College, Lira Secondary School, and Adyel Primary School are some of the schools.
James Musinguzi, Executive Director of UWA, presented their support to the head teacher of Apala B Primary School in Oyam district.
The items include dozens of exercise books worth shs13 million and 20 cartons of UWA educational materials worth shs3.5 million.
Musinguzi announced shs50 million in funding to rehabilitate Apala B Primary.
Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Minister of Health and Lira City woman MP, represented President Museveni at the World Wildlife Day celebrations.
Dr. Aceng read the President’s speech, which highlighted some exceptional tourism sites in Africa, such as national parks, wildlife, forest reserves, and wetlands, among others, and emphasized the importance of the ecosystem.
Museveni also cited the effects of Covid-19, which contributed to the decrease in tourist numbers. However, he stated that the country is experiencing a steady recovery in tourism and travel.
He encouraged community-based private sectors to be serious about addressing wildlife challenges by stopping encroachers on wildlife conservation areas such as wetlands and forests, as well as assisting in the restoration of degraded habitats, tree planting, and other restoration programs.
By Regina Lalam Olal
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