WATCH 👇
By Our Reporter
In a significant transition for Uganda’s wildlife conservation efforts, Dr. James Musinguzi has officially assumed the position of Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Swift News reports exclusively!
The handover ceremony, held today, marked the beginning of a new era under Dr. Musinguzi’s leadership as he steps into the role previously held by Mr. Sam Mwandha. His appointment, effective April 1, 2025, has been widely welcomed by stakeholders, who express confidence in his ability to steer UWA toward greater achievements in wildlife protection, conservation education, and sustainable resource management.
Dr. Musinguzi brings an extensive background in conservation, wildlife management, and institutional leadership. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) from December 2010 until its merger with UWA in October 2024.
During his tenure, he transformed UWEC into a premier wildlife conservation and education hub recognized across Africa and beyond. His leadership saw the enhancement of visitor experiences, the introduction of innovative tourism products, and significant infrastructural developments, including the establishment of modern animal exhibits and the expansion of conservation programs. The financial growth under his guidance was notable, with the institution’s budget increasing significantly over the years, along with a substantial rise in non-tax revenue. His tenure also witnessed a remarkable increase in the number of rescued and rehabilitated animals, further underscoring his commitment to wildlife conservation.
Dr. Musinguzi’s contributions to conservation have earned him international recognition. He successfully fostered partnerships with leading institutions such as Zoos Victoria in Australia and Chester Zoo in the United Kingdom, positioning Uganda as a key player in global conservation efforts. His efforts culminated in the receipt of the prestigious 2024 Pan African Pyramid Global Award for his outstanding contributions to wildlife conservation.
Academically, Dr. Musinguzi possesses impressive credentials, holding a Bachelor of Science with Education in Biology, a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Planning and Management, a Master of Science in Biology, a Master of Business Administration, and a PhD in Management. His doctoral research focused on the efficacy of institutional systems in managing wildlife trade in Uganda, demonstrating his deep understanding of conservation policies and strategies. His scholarly work has covered key topics such as wildlife trade, strategic planning, and forest conservation, further reinforcing his expertise in the field.
Following the merger of UWEC and UWA, Dr. Musinguzi played a crucial role in ensuring a seamless transition by serving as the Director of Community Conservation. His practical experience in both field-based conservation and institutional leadership makes him well-positioned to lead UWA into the future. As he assumes this new role, expectations are high that he will introduce innovative conservation strategies, strengthen community engagement, and secure sustainable funding for UWA’s operations. His experience in forging global partnerships and his commitment to involving local communities in conservation efforts are anticipated to be instrumental in shaping the next phase of Uganda’s wildlife conservation initiatives.
Dr. Musinguzi’s appointment comes at a critical time when Uganda’s rich biodiversity faces significant challenges, including poaching, habitat loss, and climate change. His leadership is expected to bring fresh strategies to address these pressing issues. Conservationists, policymakers, and stakeholders have expressed enthusiasm about his appointment, believing that his expertise and vision will be crucial in preserving Uganda’s natural heritage for future generations.
With Dr. Musinguzi at the helm, the Uganda Wildlife Authority is poised for a transformative journey toward enhanced conservation, sustainable wildlife management, and greater global recognition. His proven track record of excellence and unwavering commitment to conservation assure that Uganda’s wildlife and ecosystems are in capable hands, setting the stage for a future where the country’s natural treasures are safeguarded for generations to come.
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