In 2020, Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) first announced plans to establish regional satellite zoos across different regions in the country. These zoos are to help bridge the gap in the public understanding of conservation education and as well enhance wildlife research.
The UWEC Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi said they have been able to secure land from the National Forest Authority in urban forest reserves in Mbale, Gulu, Kyenjojo and Mbarara.
Musinguzi expressed the Centre’s commitment to realize this goal while speaking to the press at UWEC’s 70 year celebrations dinner held at Speke Resort Beach Hotel Munyonyo, in Kampala last week.
Musinguzi also said the zoos will help emphasize links between the various themes and activities of UWEC from exhibition to education; from children to scholars.
” The zoo is not only about animals, but also other activities like research. We have designed several programs such as keeper for a day among others. It (UWEC) is for capacity building, internship, volunteer ship,” he remarked.
Away from the regional zoos, Musinguzi revealed they are to set up a Virtual zoo experience, an online booking system among other things in order to bolster conservation education.
The Executive Director also lauded partners that have supported them through the Coronavirus pandemic. “Different partners have supported with money and food items during the pandemic and after it, and we have been able to recover, ” he said.
Minister, Office of the Prime Minister (General Duties), Justine Kasule Lumumba who presided over the event in stead of the Prime Minister, lauded UWEC’s role in promoting conservation of biodiversity.
Lumumba also appreciated the efforts to set up zoos in different areas which she says will promote local tourism and as well provide enormous employment opportunities for Ugandans.
Lumumba furthermore urged Ugandans and foreigners to visit UWEC to support animal welfare and conservation.
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