Friday, August 27, 2010

UWA took the right decision on officials

I am not surprised that the managers of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) have been suspended and one of them sacked.

There is a public outcry about the way UWA runs its business. I have read about incidents where wild animals are shot by rangers and the public share the meat.

Many people have called UWA to rescue animals without any response. The organisation has no department to help communities that live near protected areas. Many Ugandans have been killed by crocodiles, elephants, buffalos and leopards without any intervention by UWA. UWA had completely lost track.

You can tell this by looking at the organisational structure. A wildlife authority should have at least a laboratory for early detection of diseases like anthrax which has killed many hippos. It should have a very effective veterinary department and a well-equipped capture department that can handle problem animals.

The management of UWA has been putting more emphasis on their personal interest than the interests of Ugandans. I do not blame the UWA board for the steps taken. However, those who are innocent should be called back.
Uganda safari

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