A team from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, led by Acting Commissioner Mr. George Owoyesigire, recently embarked on a visit to several districts in Uganda. Their aim was to oversee various projects funded by the World Bank under the Integrated Forestry and Protected Area Management (IFPA-CD) initiative.
Accompanied by officials from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the National Forestry Authority, and the National Water and Sewage Corporation, the team visited districts including Kyenjojo, Kamwenge, Kibale, Kyegwega, Kazo, as well as the Katonga Wildlife Game Reserve and the Toro-Semuliki region.
Their primary objective during this visit was to assess the progress and implementation of different projects under the IFPA-CD initiative. This involved inspecting various aspects of the projects and ensuring they were being carried out effectively.
Throughout their visit, the team inspected a range of projects, including the establishment of woodlands and nursery beds, training sessions on energy-saving technologies, rainwater harvesting initiatives, beekeeping programs, and efforts to control invasive species.
Additionally, the team had the opportunity to visit households that had directly benefited from these projects. They witnessed firsthand the impact of the initiatives, with beneficiaries expressing their happiness and appreciation for the support they had received. Some of the benefits included the provision of water tanks, energy-saving cooking stoves, bee hives, and measures to protect gardens from elephant attacks.
Furthermore, the team visited forest reserves in Itwara, Kibego, Muhangi, and Rwensambya, where restoration and enrichment planting activities were underway. They observed the opening of forest boundaries, marked with concrete pillars and clear signage, to ensure proper demarcation and protection.
Communities residing near these forest reserves also benefited from the IFPA-CD projects. They received training sessions and resources such as energy-saving cooking stoves, bee hives, nursery beds, and water harvesting tanks, contributing to sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation efforts.
The Ministry’s visit underscored the government’s commitment to overseeing the effective implementation of development projects aimed at improving the lives of communities while promoting environmental conservation and sustainable resource management.
