The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced the release of UGX 3,151,730,162 in revenue-sharing funds to six districts neighboring the Murchison Falls Conservation Area.
This substantial financial injection is not merely a disbursement but a profound commitment by the Government of Uganda to intertwine wildlife conservation with community development, heralding a new era of mutual benefit.
The ceremonial announcement took place at the Nwoya District headquarters, where Honourable Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Tom Butime, presided with notable gravitas.
Addressing an audience of local leaders, conservationists, and stakeholders, Minister Butime emphasized the significance of the funds, highlighting that this initiative transcends the realm of financial transactions.
“Today’s disbursement is a landmark event, demonstrating our unwavering dedication to ensuring that the rewards of conservation reach those who are directly invested in protecting our wildlife. This initiative symbolizes our commitment to fostering both environmental stewardship and community development,” he declared.
The funds, carefully apportioned among the six districts, reflect the diverse needs and contributions of each area. Pakwach District received UGX 360,339,273, while Buliisa District was allocated UGX 810,577,781.
Masindi District received UGX 297,978,765, Kiryandongo District was granted UGX 746,780,468, Oyam District obtained UGX 220,504,355, and Nwoya District secured UGX 715,549,520.
This distribution underscores the government’s strategic approach to addressing the unique requirements and potential of each district, ensuring that the benefits of conservation are equitably shared.
Mr. Raymong Engena, representing the Board of Trustees, offered heartfelt appreciation to the districts for their ongoing support of UWA’s conservation endeavors.
He expressed the board’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that the financial benefits of conservation efforts extend to the communities living in close proximity to protected areas.
“We are profoundly grateful to the leadership and communities of these districts. Your support is essential to our conservation mission, and we are dedicated to ensuring that the fruits of our efforts contribute to the well-being of your communities,” Mr. Engena affirmed.
The Executive Director of UWA, Mr. Sam Mwandha, reflected on the progress made through previous disbursements. He noted that since 2005, UWA has been dedicated to extending the advantages of wildlife conservation beyond the confines of protected areas.
“The projects funded by past disbursements have significantly transformed lives, improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare. We are confident that today’s funds will continue to enhance the livelihoods of people in these districts,” Mr. Mwandha stated, emphasizing the broader impact of conservation investments on local economies.
Chairman Emmanuel Orach of Nwoya District, representing all six recipient districts, expressed gratitude and optimism about the funds. He acknowledged the challenges faced by communities living adjacent to wildlife areas but also recognized the promising opportunities presented by this financial support.
“Our communities have long endured the difficulties of living alongside wildlife, but these funds offer a tangible opportunity to improve our infrastructure, health services, and overall quality of life. We are committed to using these resources wisely and appreciate the Government and UWA for their continued support,” Chairman Orach said.
The ceremony was further graced by the presence of the Member of Parliament for Nwoya East, Hon. Okello Geoffrey, who praised the government’s efforts to ensure that the proceeds from tourism activities are shared with communities living near protected areas.
The event also attracted various political and technical leaders from the six districts, all eager to witness and contribute to the promising future these funds represent.
Under the revised guidelines, these revenue-sharing funds are now classified as conditional grants, reinforcing the importance of efficient and transparent utilization.
District Local Governments are tasked with managing these resources effectively, with Chief Administrative Officers responsible for timely reporting and accountability.
Non-compliance with these guidelines could lead to the suspension of future disbursements, underscoring the gravity of responsible financial stewardship.
UWA’s groundbreaking disbursement of UGX 3.15 billion is more than a financial allocation; it represents a profound commitment to harmonizing conservation efforts with socio-economic development.
This initiative sets a precedent for sustainable development, demonstrating that the benefits of protecting Uganda’s natural heritage can and should extend to the communities living in its embrace.
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