Uganda Deploys Electric Fences to Tackle Human-Wildlife Conflict

The Ugandan government is set to install electric fences around communities bordering national parks to address the escalating issue of human-wildlife conflict. This initiative aims to protect local populations and their livelihoods from encroaching wildlife.

State Minister for Tourism, Hon. Susan Nakawuki, informed Members of Parliament that the construction of electric fences has already commenced in the Rukungiri and Mitooma districts, adjacent to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This announcement came in response to concerns raised by Hon. Wilson Kajwengye, who highlighted the severe impact of wildlife from Lake Mburo National Park on his constituency in Kiruhura District.

Hon. Kajwengye described how wild animals have repeatedly destroyed crops and water sources, leading to food insecurity and destitution among his constituents. He appealed for immediate government assistance in the form of food and planting materials, urging the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities to expedite the fencing of Lake Mburo National Park and provide compensation to affected communities.

Minister Nakawuki acknowledged that electric fencing is a costly but necessary undertaking, being implemented in phases. While materials are available, and work has started in some areas, funding for other projects, such as the fencing around Lake Mburo, is still pending.

The compensation framework for human-wildlife conflict victims, governed by the Uganda Wildlife Compensation Regulations of 2022, is also under review. Hon. Kajwengye critiqued the current guidelines as unfavorable, noting that compensation amounts are often meager and some crop-damaging animals are excluded.

In light of these concerns, the Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, has directed the Committee on Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities to investigate the matter thoroughly and present a comprehensive report to Parliament within 45 days. This includes examining the compensation regulations and the feasibility of increasing the revenue-sharing percentage with local communities.

Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4525/govt-plans-electric-fences-curb-human-wildlife-conflict