Dr. James Musinguzi has been selected as the new Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), with his tenure set to begin on April 1, 2025. His appointment follows the decision of Sam Mwandha, who has held the post since 2018, to step down. The announcement of Musinguzi’s new role, made on February 6, 2025, signals a new chapter for UWA, a key institution in Uganda’s ongoing efforts to preserve its natural heritage and biodiversity.
Dr. Musinguzi’s appointment comes with a wealth of experience, particularly in the management of wildlife conservation initiatives. He previously served as the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), also known as the Entebbe Zoo, a position he held from 2006 until his departure in October 2024. Under his leadership, UWEC achieved significant growth, both in terms of conservation efforts and visitor numbers. His innovative strategies were instrumental in positioning the center as the leading zoological institution in East, West, and Central Africa.
One of his major successes at UWEC was the remarkable increase in attendance, with annual visitor numbers rising from 337,357 in 2017 to over 660,000 by 2024. This increase in visitors, alongside a corresponding boost in revenue, played a vital role in expanding the center’s conservation and educational programs. His ability to blend wildlife preservation with public outreach and education helped enhance UWEC’s reputation not only as a sanctuary for endangered species but also as an important hub for environmental awareness and tourism.
Dr. Musinguzi’s qualifications also underscore his readiness to lead UWA. He holds a PhD in wildlife management, focusing on the management of wildlife trade, a critical issue for conservation in Africa. He also has a Master of Science degree in Biology and an MBA, which complement his expertise in both the scientific and managerial aspects of wildlife conservation. His research and academic background further strengthen his capacity to address the complexities of managing Uganda’s diverse wildlife resources.
Throughout his career, Musinguzi has been recognized for his leadership and contributions to conservation. He has received multiple awards, including a notable conservation education award, and was honored with a Golden Jubilee Award by President Yoweri Museveni, recognizing his exceptional work in wildlife conservation. His work has earned him international recognition, particularly for his efforts in wildlife education and the protection of endangered species.
As Mwandha concludes his tenure, his legacy at UWA will be remembered for the strides made in advancing Uganda’s wildlife conservation agenda. Mwandha’s leadership helped to secure the protection of Uganda’s national parks, improve anti-poaching operations, and enhance community-based conservation efforts. His vision contributed significantly to the country’s development of sustainable wildlife tourism, which plays a crucial role in Uganda’s broader economic goals.
Under Dr. Musinguzi’s leadership, UWA is expected to continue its important mission of safeguarding Uganda’s rich biodiversity. With his extensive experience in both wildlife management and strategic planning, Musinguzi is poised to guide UWA through evolving challenges, including poaching, climate change, and habitat degradation. His vision for the future of Uganda’s wildlife sector will likely focus on enhancing conservation practices, strengthening community engagement, and ensuring that Uganda remains a leading destination for wildlife tourism.
As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, Dr. Musinguzi’s expertise and leadership will be critical in navigating these issues while ensuring that Uganda’s natural heritage is protected for future generations. His appointment signals UWA’s commitment to addressing both conservation and economic needs, positioning Uganda as a model for sustainable wildlife management and a hub for global wildlife protection initiatives.