Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, underscored the crucial role of digital innovation in conservation efforts in a recent address at the National Wildlife Conservation Conference held in Kampala. Emphasizing the ubiquitous nature of technology in modern society, Dr. Baryomunsi urged Ugandans to integrate digital solutions into their conservation practices.
Collaborating with neighboring countries such as Tanzania and Kenya, the Ugandan government has initiated efforts to establish essential technology infrastructure. Dr. Baryomunsi highlighted ongoing endeavors to integrate with these countries in advancing technological capabilities, particularly in the realm of conservation. Additionally, strategies are being devised to reduce internet costs within Uganda, aiming to facilitate broader access to technology across the nation.
Despite these strides, Dr. Baryomunsi cautioned against the adverse impacts of rapid population growth on conservation efforts. Advocating for smaller, more manageable family sizes, he stressed the correlation between population control and conservation outcomes, urging Ugandans to adopt practices akin to those observed in other nations.
Echoing Dr. Baryomunsi’s sentiments, Mr. Achilles Byaruhanga, the Executive Director of Nature Uganda, emphasized the need for a collective approach to conservation. Emphasizing the intersection of technology and conservation, Byaruhanga urged stakeholders to explore innovative applications of technology in safeguarding natural resources. Given Uganda’s rich biodiversity, he emphasized the limitations of traditional monitoring methods and underscored the importance of technology in extending surveillance capabilities.
Likewise, Mr. Sam Mwandha, the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, articulated the manifold benefits of technology adoption in conservation endeavors. From enhancing efficiency and real-time monitoring to streamlining data management and fostering international collaboration, Mwandha emphasized the transformative potential of technology in conservation practices.
