Digital Evolution in Wildlife Conservation
Feb 23, 2024
Baryomunsi affirmed Uganda's commitment to not merely be an observer in the global digital shift but an active participant. He highlighted the local production of mobile phones in Mbale and the presence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasizing that Uganda is fully engaged in the digital era.
Digital Evolution in Wildlife Conservation
Titus Kakembo
Journalist @New Vision
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Poachers and illegal wildlife product dealers in Uganda are facing numbered days as the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) embraces modern technology to upgrade its ranger activities. Minister of ICT, Chris Baryomunsi, unveiled this initiative during his keynote address at a workshop held at the Uganda Museum, part of the preparations for World Tourism Day on March 3, 2024.
Baryomunsi affirmed Uganda's commitment to not merely be an observer in the global digital shift but an active participant. He highlighted the local production of mobile phones in Mbale and the presence of Artificial Intelligence (AI), emphasizing that Uganda is fully engaged in the digital era.
Martin Mugarra, the Minister of State for Tourism, stressed the relevance of the theme, "Connecting People and Planet Earth: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation," given Uganda's nature-based tourism industry.
Sam Mwanda, the Executive Director of UWA, acknowledged the benefits of digitization but emphasized the ongoing challenges of regular upgrades, staff training, and adapting to new technology. He shared success stories, citing instances where poachers were apprehended in Queen Elizabeth National Park through photographs captured by stationary cameras. Additionally, technology played a crucial role in legal actions against culprits involved in gorilla tracking.
As Uganda takes bold steps in leveraging digital tools for wildlife conservation, it signals a proactive approach to safeguarding its rich biodiversity against the threats posed by poaching and illegal wildlife trade.
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