UWA seeks shs10b to purchase helicopter to monitor national parks

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has tabled a shs10 billion request before Parliament to purchase a helicopter.

Dorcus Rukundo Twesigomwe, Business Development Manager at Uganda Wildlife Authority told Lawmakers that the funds will be used to monitor national parks, rescue animals and quick transportation of veterinary doctors to treat animals injured in the wild.

The amount was swiftly questioned by Members of Parliament who questioned if the said amount includes funds for the chopper’s maintenance.

Rukundo appeared before Parliament’s Committee on Tourism on January 27, during the consideration of the Tourism sector’s 2026/27 National Budget Framework Paper.

UWA is mandated by the government to ensure sustainable management of wildlife resources and supervise wildlife activities both within and outside the protected areas.

Uganda’s tourism sector experienced significant growth in 2025, with earnings reaching approximately shs 5.8 trillion (roughly $1.52 billion) in the 12 months leading to March 2025.

This marked a 13.1% increase from the previous year, driven by higher visitor numbers, improved infrastructure, and a focus on high-end tourism.