The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced immediate measures to address the escalating concerns regarding wildlife safety, particularly in the busy Murchison Falls National Park.
Human activity and traffic surge into natural habitats have increased following the closure of the Karuma Bridge to allow maintenance works, leading to the traffic diversion through the park, hence the urgency for wildlife conservation that has reached critical levels.
Bashir Hangi, the spokesperson for UWA, while addressing the increased traffic in the park on local television on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, highlighted the challenges posed by the increased traffic, particularly through the Kichumbanyobo gate, which he said sees an astonishing 4,000 vehicles weekly.
He noted that this gate has become a focal point for tourism activity, but with the recent closure of the Karuma access route, authorities were compelled to implement alternative travel routes to protect both wildlife and visitors.
“We are providing alternative routes for travelers moving through Murchison Falls National Park; visitors entering via the Masindi-Kichumbanyobo gate will now be directed to use the Bugungu gate in Buliisa, exiting through Tangi,” Hangi said.
Additionally, this adjustment aims to alleviate congestion and minimize the ecological footprint of heavy traffic within the park.
“Using the Bugungu gate in Buliisa and exiting through Tangi provides a shorter route through the park, helping to minimize the footprint of heavy traffic. Despite some reluctance from travelers regarding the longer route, the safety of wildlife remains a priority,” he added.
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Hangi further stated that the Kichumbanyobo gate’s heavy traffic has unfortunately led to numerous roadkill incidents, prompting the need for these changes.
“To facilitate this transition, the Kichumbanyobo gate will remain open, with standard tourist fees applicable for all visitors. Hangi urged travelers to adhere to the park’s operating hours, which are from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience,” he noted.
According to Hangi, UWA remains committed to balancing tourism interests with the imperative of wildlife conservation, emphasizing that the protection of Uganda’s natural heritage is a shared responsibility.
