Parliament Demands Probe into UWA Ranger Killings

The Committee on Tourism, Trade and Industry has publicly demanded an independent inquiry into disturbing allegations surrounding Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. These accusations include extrajudicial killings and disappearances of individuals in areas bordering national parks.

During a parliamentary sitting, the Deputy Chairperson of the committee, Hon. Patrick Aeku, presented a report highlighting persistent human-wildlife conflict. The report specifically calls for the Uganda Human Rights Commission and the Uganda Police Force to investigate claims in Nwoya, Buliisa, and Kasese districts, with findings expected within six months.

Concerns have been raised that game rangers may have used excessive force against those found or suspected of being in national parks without authorization. Reports suggest that the bodies of some victims have not been returned to their families. One notable case cited involved the Koyo Clan in Nwoya District, reportedly losing 11 members over three years in park-related incidents where bodies were allegedly never recovered.

While UWA attributes deaths within parks primarily to confrontations with armed poachers, the committee noted it could not independently verify these counterclaims. However, the persistence and specificity of the allegations have caused significant concern, potentially damaging relations between UWA and local communities and hindering cooperation in managing wildlife conflicts.

Beyond the investigations, the committee proposed 65 recommendations to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. These include fencing several key national parks like Lake Mburo, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Kidepo Valley, alongside scaling up beehive fences and maintaining protective trenches. The Vice President, Jessica Alupo, pledged government support, emphasizing the national benefits of conservation and urging community sensitization on safety measures.

Members of Parliament voiced their distress over escalating wildlife attacks, which are reportedly worsening food insecurity and causing severe harm, including maiming and property destruction. The State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Susan Nakawuki, acknowledged these challenges while also pointing out that UWA rangers themselves face significant risks, with many killed or injured by poachers.