It was not doom and gloom for the wild side of Entebbe in 2021.

The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre that is also known as Entebbe Zoo in some circles registered an increase of 48% in visitor numbers of 2021 compared to 2020. 

According to Dr James Musinguzi, UWEC’s executive director, the centre, which was hit by the lockdowns put in place to prevent and control the spread of coronavirus, affected visitor numbers and revenue.  

However, last year’s visitor numbers were better than the previous year in which the first outbreak of COVID-19 was reported in Uganda.   

“The number grew by 48%,” said Musinguzi, adding that the festive season visitation from December 25 until January 1 also increased by 34%.   

He also pointed out that there were encouraging expectations given that out of the visitation 90% were Ugandan as opposed to 10% who were foreigners.

“This shows how Ugandans have embraced domestic tourism,” said Musinguzi, adding that by supporting the centre with visitation, Ugandans will help it to overcome the effects of the pandemic.  

UWEC has over 400 animals, including chimpanzees and lions, which take expensive meals.