Nakapiripirit, Joseph Ayolo – The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has rejected a request by Karimojong and Pokot pastoralists in South Karamoja to allow their livestock to graze in the Pian Upe game reserve. The protected wildlife area is home to a variety of endangered species.
Speaking to this publication, James Okware, the senior warden officer in charge of Pian Upe game reserve, stated that UWA will not allow any pastoralists to enter the protected area. He emphasized that doing so would endanger the freedom of wild animals.
Two weeks ago, Karimojong and Pokot pastoralists, led by their members of parliament, met with UWA officials to request access to the park for grazing. The request was motivated by the ongoing drought in the region.
Mr. Okware said that he had forwarded the request to the UWA headquarters in Kampala for advice, and it was ultimately rejected. He reiterated that anyone found trespassing in the park would be arrested and charged with violating protected area regulations.
Mr. Okware advised the pastoralists to seek alternative grazing areas outside the park. He warned that allowing grazing within the park would not only endanger wildlife but also encourage encroachment and further threats to the protected area.
According to Mr. Okware, wildlife in Pian Upe game reserve has already suffered significantly from poaching.
He added that allowing pastoralists to graze inside the park would also encourage encroachment on the protected area.
