EDITOR
Residents and local leaders in Kanungu District have raised fresh concerns over the increasing cases of human-wildlife conflict around Queen Elizabeth National Park, calling for timely compensation and stronger preventive measures from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
The concern was highlighted during a district council meeting held at the council hall, where Mbabazi Elias, the District Councilor representing Kihihi Subcounty, and Prudence Kyarimpa, the District Councilor for Nyanga Subcounty, decried the continued destruction of property and loss of lives caused by wild animals straying from the park.
The leaders noted that despite the erection of electric fences to prevent animals from crossing into communities, wildlife—especially elephants—continue to breach the barriers. One of the most tragic recent incidents occurred on May 16, 2025, when a stray elephant and its calf fatally attacked Clinton Birungi, a 15-year-old pupil at Kyentija Primary School in Kameme Cell, Kibimbiri Parish, Kihihi Subcounty. The elephant had reportedly roamed the community for a week, leaving residents in a state of fear.
District Speaker Hon. Frank Byaruhanga, while commenting on the matter, acknowledged the collaboration between local leaders and security teams in responding to such threats. However, he emphasized the need for residents to report wildlife incursions promptly and through the appropriate channels. He also noted a communication gap between the community and UWA in the latest incident, which hindered a timely response.
Kanungu Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Ahimbisibwe Gad Rugaju assured the public that an investigation is underway to determine whether any lapses in response occurred. He expressed confidence that UWA will implement more robust solutions to address the ongoing human-wildlife conflict.
In response, Mr. Deusidadat Twinomujuni, a representative from UWA’s Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, outlined the measures already in place. He said an 800-meter section of the fence on the Kanungu side and a 1.8-kilometer section on the Rukungiri side have been completed. Additionally, plans are underway to extend the fence by another 13 kilometers in Rukungiri District in the 2025/2026 financial year.
Regarding compensation, Mr. Twinomujuni clarified that UWA is compensating affected residents, but many do not come forward publicly. He revealed that so far, 10 claims have been paid, 25 approved, 29 rejected, 34 are under review, and 22 are awaiting necessary attachments before being processed.
