Senior Reporter
Game Rangers in the southern sector of Bwindi National Park in Rushaga, Kisoro District, have called for increased field facilitation to better support their efforts. During a visit to government projects in Rubuguri town council this week, they raised their concerns with Bukimbiri County Member of Parliament, Hon. Eddie Kwizera Wa-Gahungu.
The rangers reported that their daily field allowance of 3,500 shillings is insufficient even for a packed lunch. They also highlighted delays in receiving this payment, which can take more than a month to process, often leaving them hungry while on duty. Their responsibilities include assisting tourists with gorilla tracking and other park protection activities. Additionally, they pointed out that the poor condition of access roads to tracking areas from the community poses a threat to tourists.
MP Kwizera expressed regret that the game rangers, who play a crucial role in generating government revenue through tourism, are inadequately supported. He noted that Rushaga generates over 300 million shillings daily from gorilla tracking and pledged to raise their concerns with the government.
In response, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) spokesperson Hanji Bashkir clarified that the 3,500 shilling allowance is not intended for meals, as the rangers are provided with food. He explained that the payment is not disbursed daily due to UWA’s operational system and urged the rangers to understand the nature of their work and adjust accordingly.
