Uganda clears five reserves for national park status
Uganda’s Cabinet has approved a Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities proposal to elevate five reserves to national park status – Katonga, Toro–Semliki, Echuya, Kigezi and Kyambura – with Bukaleba Forest Reserve designated to become a wildlife reserve. Minister Tom Butime said the policy now awaits parliamentary approval, framing the move as a step to expand Uganda’s conservation footprint and underpin tourism‑led economic growth.
Proposals to upgrade Pian Upe and Bugoma were not approved, though the minister signalled efforts will continue. If ratified, the upgrades are expected to enhance biodiversity protection and ecosystem management, expand Uganda’s inventory of premium tourism products, attract higher‑value visitors and strengthen conservation financing – aligning with Vision 2040 and the government’s sector growth strategy.
Source: NilePost
