UWA speaks out on delayed fencing of Murchison Falls National Park
Previous efforts, such as using bee hives, have not yielded satisfactory results.
Buliisa: The installation of an electric fence around Murchison Falls National Park in Buliisa district has encountered delays due to the procurement process for composite poles.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) aims to erect an electric fence along the borders of Murchison Falls National Park.
This initiative is crucial for minimizing human-wildlife conflicts, particularly incidents involving elephants that cross over from the park into neighboring areas.
The affected villages include Kaborwa, Kamandindi, Gotyech, Pandiga, Ajiigo, Muvulenunda, Bugana, Waiga, and Avogera. These communities have faced attacks on humans and gardens by wild animals, especially elephants and buffaloes, resulting in the loss of lives and livelihoods.
Wilson Kagoro, the Warden in charge of community conservation at Murchison Falls National Park, highlighted the delays caused by the procurement process for composite poles. He says that despite this setback, they are determined to proceed with the installation.
According to Kagoro, the planned electric fence will span 24 kilometers, extending from the River Nile in Ngwedo Sub County to Waiga in Buliisa Sub County. ‘’Currently, approximately 10 kilometers have been covered and erected,’’ he disclosed.
The primary goal is to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts, especially in areas where people have suffered injuries or lost their lives due to encounters with wild animals.
By creating a physical barrier, the electric fence will discourage elephants and other wildlife from venturing into community settlements. It aims to protect crops, prevent injuries, and safeguard local residents.
Previous efforts, such as using bee hives, have not yielded satisfactory results. Therefore, the expedited installation of the electric fence is crucial for the safety and well-being of both humans and wildlife.
The ongoing collaboration between UWA, local leaders, and environmental authorities underscores the commitment to coexistence between communities and the natural habitat of Murchison Falls National Park.
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