The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) was established in August 1996 by the Uganda Wildlife Statute, which merged the Uganda National Parks and the Game Department. It is governed by a Board of Trustees appointed by the Minister responsible for wildlife. UWA is in charge of management of 10 National Parks, 12 Wildlife Reserves, 14 Wildlife Sanctuaries and provides guidance for 5 Community Wildlife Areas.
The objectives of the Uganda Wildlife Authority are:
- To conserve the wildlife and other resources of natural scenic and scientific value in those areas within its jurisdiction.
- To ensure that the integrity of such areas is properly maintained.
- To identify areas which should be designated and gazetted as protected areas so as to ensure adequate protection of Uganda’s major eco-system, nature habitat and biodiversity.
- Explore the possibilities of increasing benefits to local communities living within or adjacent to protected areas.
- To exploit wildlife potentials to generate revenue for individuals and government.
