Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-04-01 09:42:27
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has embarked on a long-standing initiative to reintroduce white rhinoceros to Ajai Wildlife Reserve in Madi-okollo District in the West Nile Region. The recent relocation of 200 kobs and 50 buffaloes from Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve and Murchison Falls National Game Park to Ajai Wildlife Reserve marks a step towards this goal.
The purpose of this exercise is to repopulate the wildlife reserve with common species like kobs and buffaloes before introducing Southern White Rhinoceros. By diversifying the animal species in the reserve, UWA aims to enhance its capacity to manage a variety of wildlife populations effectively. The kobs and buffaloes will help control the overgrown vegetation before the arrival of the rhinoceros.
According to Mr. Bashir Hangi, the UWA spokesman, introducing a variety of animals to the reserve, including kobs and buffaloes, will attract tourists and improve the tourism potential of the area. The relocation of rhinoceros to Ajai Wildlife Reserve will also ease the pressure on the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola District, which is currently at full capacity.
A feasibility study conducted by UWA five years ago identified Ajai Wildlife Reserve as a suitable location for reintroducing rhinoceros. The study also highlighted Murchison Falls National Game Park as another ideal facility for hosting rhinoceros. By carefully monitoring the progress of the rhinoceros at Ajai, UWA aims to ensure the successful reintroduction of these endangered animals.
The reintroduction of key species to Ajai Wildlife Reserve reflects UWA’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration. This initiative not only benefits wildlife but also supports sustainable tourism and community engagement. Through revenue-sharing mechanisms, local communities can benefit from the tourism potential of the reserve.
Ajai Wildlife Reserve, once home to critically endangered white rhinos, has seen a decline in animal species over the years due to poor management. The reintroduction of key species like kobs, buffaloes, and Southern White Rhinoceros demonstrates UWA’s dedication to restoring the ecological balance and safeguarding biodiversity.
In recent years, UWA has successfully repopulated several wildlife-protected areas with dwindling populations, including Kidepo Valley, Lake Mburo, and Murchison Falls national parks, as well as Katonga, Pian Upe, and Kabwoya wildlife reserves. The roadmap set by UWA aims to reintroduce white rhinoceros to Ajai Wildlife Reserve by 2025, with buffaloes and kobs serving as pioneer animals to prepare the reserve for their arrival.
Overall, UWA’s efforts to reintroduce key species and restore biodiversity in Ajai Wildlife Reserve are paving the way for a sustainable ecosystem and a thriving tourism industry in the West Nile region. By balancing conservation and tourism, UWA is creating a model for responsible wildlife management and community engagement in Uganda.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
