Twenty-five years ago, Uganda wildlife was in crisis. Civil conflict through the 1970s and 1980s had devastated animal populations across the country national parks. Today, the story is dramatically different — and the turnaround is one of Africa great conservation success stories.
Mountain Gorillas: From the Brink to Recovery
When systematic surveys began in 1989, the total mountain gorilla population stood at around 620 individuals. The 2018 IUCN assessment put the number above 1,000 for the first time — the only great ape to be downlisted from Critically Endangered to Endangered in recent decades. Uganda Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to roughly half of that global population.
Elephants Returning to Murchison Falls
Elephant numbers in Murchison Falls National Park were decimated by poaching in the 1980s. Sustained anti-poaching operations by the Uganda Wildlife Authority have seen the population recover to over 1,500 individuals.
Tourism as Conservation
Every gorilla trekking permit sold in Uganda contributes directly to conservation: 20% of revenues are channelled to communities living adjacent to the parks. This revenue-sharing model has transformed local attitudes toward wildlife.
How You Can Help
The single most powerful thing a traveller can do for Uganda wildlife is visit it. Responsible tourism generates the revenue that funds rangers, anti-poaching units, and community programmes. Plan your safari with Wagwan Tours Uganda and travel with the knowledge that your visit directly supports conservation on the ground.
