*UWA- Bwindi Mgahinga conservation area Celebrates World Rangers Day on 31st/ July 2024*

Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Area joined the global community yesterday in celebrating World Rangers Day. The event was held at UWA Bwindi Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, marking a significant occasion to honor the dedication and sacrifices of wildlife rangers.

The day commenced with a community-driven initiative to collect waste in the Bwindi Township, Kachwampare, and Buhoma Town along the road between Bwindi Hospital and Mukono Town. This cleanup activity aimed to raise awareness about the crucial role rangers play in protecting wildlife in the park.

Chief Warden Bwindi, Guma Nelson, extended heartfelt congratulations to all rangers, acknowledging their vital role as the first responders to wildlife threats. "You fulfill the divine mandate to protect God's creation," Nelson stated. "Wildlife in our protected areas survives because of your endurance, courage, commitment, and sacrifice. These pillars of your work transcend patrols to curb illegal activities, raise awareness about conservation, monitor wildlife, respond to problem animals, maintain the integrity of our protected areas, guide nature enthusiasts, ensure the safety of visitors and property, and protect wildlife across borders.  We honor you for risking your lives to protect wildlife and remember our fallen comrades on this day."

Nelson urged the rangers to continue their remarkable work, emphasizing the critical importance of their efforts.

Masereka Joshua, Warden Community Conservation in charge of rangers, also applauded the rangers for their tireless work in conserving and protecting the Park's wildlife. He recounted that World Rangers Day was first celebrated in 2007 and serves to commemorate the sacrifices made by rangers in protecting national Parks, forest reserves, and wetlands for the benefit of the global community.

Masereka highlighted the ongoing efforts of rangers in monitoring the integrity of the Park and combating illegal activities. "

The celebration of Rangers Day is a tribute to their dedication and hard work in preserving our natural heritage," he said.

The event participants collectively agreed to adhere to the constitution governing the protection of National Parks and forests. The celebration in Buhoma was graced by the Batwa community, who expressed their gratitude to the government and non-governmental organizations for their support. The Batwa culture, enriched by external support, has seen significant social and economic transformation, though challenges such as disease and limited capital for enterprises remain.

World Rangers Day in Kanungu was a poignant reminder of the essential role rangers play in conservation and the ongoing need to support their invaluable work.

By: T. Mwajuma Twaha Adams,

 Communications Officer,

Kanungu District Local government.