By Sadique Bamwita
KAMPALA
After being patient for two months, Dr. James Musinguzi has a reason to smile after he finally took over office from his predecessor, Sam Mwandha as the new Executive Director of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
The handover ceremony was held on April 2, 2025 at the authority’s Headquarters in Kampala, and was presided over by Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka-the state Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities.
The function was also witnessed by the Permanent Secretary of the Tourism Ministry, Chairman and Members of the UWA Board of Trustees, senior government officials, development and conservation partners, and representatives of the private among others.
In his remarks, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka commended Mr. Mwandha for his distinguished services, revealing that his tenure as Executive Director significantly enhanced UWA’s conservation footprint, policy credibility, and public trust.
The Minister however, challenged Dr. James Musinguzi to deepen community engagement, promote innovation in wildlife management, and consolidate the gains made in tourism, biodiversity protection, and institutional development.
The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Doreen Katusiime assured Dr. Musinguzi of total support from her Ministry as he embarks on steering the Authority through it’s next phase of growth.
The Chairman of the UWA Board of Trustees, Prof James Kalema, gave assurance to Dr. Musinguzi, that the authority’s Board of trustees is committed to providing strategic oversight and support as the authority navigates developing conservation challenges and opportunities.
In his parting remarks, Mr. Sam Mwandha urged the UWA team to continue working in harmony on top of remaining resolute in upholding the Authority’s mandate.
In his maiden speech as the new UWA Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi, promised to consolidate the gains registered by his predecessor, in addition to building a more vibrant UWA. He outlined a set of priorities to guide the next phase of Uganda Wildlife Authority’s work. Among them include; Expanding revenue generation through innovation and diversification of tourism products, Strengthening engagement with communities, partners, and the private sector, and Combating invasive species and restoring degraded habitats.
He also emphasized on reducing human-wildlife conflict through locally informed, participatory solutions, fighting poaching and ensuring Uganda is not a transit route for wildlife traffickers and enhancing staff welfare, motivation, and professional development.
Dr. Musinguzi further emphasized the need for teamwork and tasked all UWA staff to uphold the values of discipline, integrity, and professionalism in carrying out their duties. He also reiterated his commitment to inclusive leadership, collaboration, and a shared responsibility to protect Uganda’s natural heritage.
