Uganda seeks helicopter for wildlife surveillance
Uganda’s Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities has requested Shs10 billion in the 2026/27 Budget Framework Paper to procure a dedicated helicopter for national parks. Presented to Parliament’s Committee on Trade, Tourism and Industry on 27 January, the plan aims to bolster aerial patrols, wildlife surveillance, animal censuses and rescue operations, replacing costly and unreliable aircraft hire.
MPs supported the proposal, citing tourism’s 2025 contribution of Shs12.2 trillion from 1.65 million visitors, while warning that operational issues at Uganda Airlines – which flies to 17 destinations and carried about 27% of tourist traffic in 2025 – could threaten growth. The ministry said stabilising the carrier is urgent, with enhanced air access and strengthened conservation capacity both critical to sustaining Uganda’s tourism economy.
Source: The Independent
