This week, the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, appointed Dr. James Musinguzi as the new Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). He will succeed Mr. Sam Mwandha, who is set to retire on March 31, 2025, after serving as Executive Director since 2018.
Who is Musinguzi
Dr. Musinguzi previously served as the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), where he championed conservation awareness, wildlife rescue, and public engagement. With extensive experience in environmental science, conservation, and sustainable tourism, his appointment comes at a crucial time for Uganda, a nation renowned for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems.
Following the merger of UWEC and UWA, Dr. Musinguzi was appointed Director of Community Conservation and Ex Situ Wildlife Services, a position he has held since October 2024. He holds a Ph.D. in Wildlife Management from Makerere University and has dedicated over 15 years to wildlife conservation efforts across East Africa.
While at UWEC James Musinguzi did not only increase the revenue collections at the facility Shs 4.5 billion to Shs 6.5 billion, he is also celebrated for leading strategies that saw increment in the number of visitors from 400,000 in the financial year 2022/2023 to 600,000 in the just concluded financial year 2023/2024.
His career began as a field researcher in the remote forests of Kabale, where he immersed himself in the study of mountain gorillas, one of Uganda’s most iconic species. These early experiences not only honed his research skills but also deepened his commitment to protecting these magnificent creatures and their habitats.
Dr. Musinguzi has built a reputation as a thought leader in conservation, leading several successful initiatives aimed at reducing human-wildlife conflict, promoting eco-tourism, and enhancing community engagement in conservation efforts.
Contribution to Conservation
For years, Dr. Musinguzi has been instrumental in forging partnerships between local communities and international organizations, developing programs that benefit both wildlife and the people living near protected areas.
While appearing before the Parliamentary committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises, Musunguzi said under his stewardship the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre has been ranked as the best in the East and Central Africa by the Pan-African Zoo Association.
He however emphasized the need for innovative strategies to tackle the challenges faced by Uganda’s wildlife. He outlined his vision of creating a collaborative approach that includes local communities, government bodies, and international stakeholders. “Conservation is not just the responsibility of the Uganda Wildlife Authority; it requires a collective effort to ensure that our natural heritage is protected for future generations,” he stated passionately.
Under Dr. Musinguzi’s leadership, UWA is set to embark on ambitious projects aimed at enhancing wildlife habitats, increasing anti-poaching measures, and promoting biodiversity conservation. His plan also involves boosting eco-tourism, which has the potential to provide essential funding for conservation activities while benefiting local economies.
“We look forward to his leadership in advancing our mission to conserve and sustainably manage Uganda’s wildlife resources for present and future generations,” reads part of the statement issued by UWA following Dr. Musinguzi’s confirmation.
As he steps into this pivotal role, Dr. Musinguzi carries the hopes and dreams of many who believe that Uganda’s incredible wildlife heritage can thrive amid the pressures of development and climate change.
What Stakeholders Say
Najjuma Sheila praised the outgoing leader, Sam Mwandha, for his service and warmly welcomed Dr. James Musinguzi as UWA’s new Executive Director. She expressed her anticipation for the innovative strategies he will bring to Uganda’s conservation efforts.
“With his expertise, passion, and commitment, Dr. James Musinguzi is poised to lead the Uganda Wildlife Authority into a future where both wildlife and communities can flourish together, ensuring that Uganda remains a jewel of biodiversity in Africa,” said Muhammad Byomboijana, a conservation journalist.
According to the Uganda Tourism Association (UTA), Dr. Musinguzi’s dedication and vast experience in wildlife conservation, community engagement, and sustainable tourism make him an exceptional choice for this role.
“His leadership at the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) and as Director of Community Conservation and Ex Situ Wildlife Services has been instrumental in raising conservation awareness, enhancing wildlife protection, and fostering partnerships that benefit Uganda’s tourism sector,” the statement reads.
