NatureUganda aims to enhance community resilience and conserve critical biodiversity in wetlands like Mabamba and Kiyanja, which are vital habitats for endangered species such as shoebills and grey crowned cranes.
Located in densely populated areas, these wetlands face significant threats including agricultural encroachment and invasive species, yet are also approved Ramsar sites and popular birdwatching destinations.
A comprehensive four-pronged approach is being adopted: improving wetland conservation status through revised management plans; restoring degraded areas with community participation; promoting ecotourism for local income; and aligning NatureUganda’s strategic plan with national goals. Essential activities include monitoring species, engaging local communities in conservation, establishing wildlife stewardship programmes, and developing Community Conservation Agreements that integrate climate-smart practices.
By addressing both biodiversity preservation and community livelihoods, the project envisions both immediate and long-term impacts, including improved ecosystem services and enhanced community well-being, while establishing the wetlands as models of sustainable conservation.
Species Protected: Shoebill | Grey-Crowned Crane
Achilles at Mabamba Ramsar sites with community guides
Shoebill at Mabamba Wetland
Grey Crowned Cranes at Kiyanja Wetland, a proposed Ramsar site
How Tusk works with Our Project Partners
We provide critical funding to enable our project partners to grow and increase their impact on habitat and wildlife, while also enabling, nurturing and supporting collaboration between them, for greater synergy and impact.
We help to increase awareness and wider support for our partners’ efforts, while also sharing important conservation messages, from the vital and varied roles of wildlife rangers, to the benefits of community-driven conservation, both within Africa and internationally.
Nature Uganda has been a Tusk partner since 2022.
This Project Makes a Difference Through…
Local Population Employed: 22
Area Protected: 20,000 ha
