UWA challenged to expedite electric fence installation in Buliisa
He urged both the minister and UWA to fast-track the fence construction, speed up compensation, and provide relief aid.
Buliisa: The Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, has urged the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to accelerate the installation of the electric fence in Buliisa and provide a clear timeline for its completion.
Speaking on Thursday at the Buliisa District headquarters, Minister Butime addressed the ongoing human-wildlife conflict, which has resulted in several deaths and the destruction of hectares of crops.
He also pledged to streamline the compensation process to ensure affected individuals receive their payments promptly. Additionally, he announced that the ministry would donate relief food to support affected communities.
“I will ease the compensation process so that affected persons receive their payments on time. As a ministry, we are also set to provide relief food to support them,” Butime assured.
In response, Fred Kiiza, Chief Warden of Murchison Falls National Park, vowed that the electric fence installation along the park’s borders would be completed within two months.
“The installation of the electric fence along the borders of Murchison Falls National Park will be completed within two months,” Kiiza confirmed.
Buliisa District LC5 Chairperson, Fred Lukumu, acknowledged the devastation caused by wild animals, particularly elephants, which have destroyed acres of crops, leaving many families struggling to survive.
He urged both the minister and UWA to fast-track the fence construction, speed up compensation, and provide relief aid.
“UWA should quickly complete the fence erection, compensation process, and provide relief supplies to affected communities. Our people have suffered enough,” Lukumu emphasized.
Meanwhile, Fred Baligamaki, the Buliisa District Speaker, appealed to UWA to prioritize local residents during the recruitment of rangers, highlighting the need for community involvement in wildlife conservation efforts.
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