Wildlife scout captures, hands over 11th python to UWA

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A wildlife scout from Ogobai village, Kobulubulu subcounty in Kaberamaido district, Shaban Ekunu, has captured and handed over a python to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

The python, estimated to be 2.4 metres long and weighing about six kilograms, attracted significant attention from the local community.

Ekunu, who has now captured and handed over 11 pythons to UWA, said he always ensures that any python he captures is rehabilitated and managed properly.

“I capture snakes for conservation, not to kill them. I also help protect the community from snakes whenever I am called,” Ekunu said.

Beyond pythons, he captures all types of snakes, including cobras—one of the most feared and venomous species—and hands them over to UWA.

Ekunu primarily operates in the Teso and Lango subregions, particularly in Amolatar and Dokolo districts.

The python he handed over on Saturday, 8 March 2025, was captured in Abola village, Kamuk Parish, Kaberamaido Sub-county.

He said residents of Abola village had reported a python causing disturbances in the area. After surveying the situation, he realised a trap was needed, which successfully led to the snake’s capture.

He also managed to rescue an egg laid by the same python.

How did Ekunu learn to capture snakes?

Ekunu revealed that he grew up in Nakasongola, where an elderly man trained him in snake handling.

“At first, I was scared when I was told I could be trained to capture snakes,” he admitted.

However, after gaining knowledge from his mentor, he developed a passion for snakes. Initially, he would capture them and release them into Lake Kyoga, where they were less likely to be killed due to UWA’s limited presence in the area.

His skills were further refined after undergoing training with UWA, which now regularly collects the snakes he captures.

When asked if snakes ever bite him, Ekunu confidently said his knowledge and experience prevent him from being harmed.

A well-known snake catcher, Ekunu insists that people should not kill snakes. Instead, they should call him to safely remove them for conservation.

Edward Wachi of UWA carries a python, supported by Shaban Ekunu in Kaberamaido district. (Credit: Michael Onyinge)

However, he emphasised that he only captures large snakes, not small ones.

UWA speaks out

Sgt. Edward Wachi from Mt Elgon National Park, who led the UWA team that collected the python, commended Ekunu’s efforts in wildlife conservation.

He urged communities to refrain from killing wildlife and instead learn to coexist with them.

“Since Ekunu was trained, he knows how to handle snakes safely. However, I warn others not to attempt capturing snakes, as it can be extremely dangerous and even fatal,” Wachi said.

Pythons can pose a threat to humans and livestock, often causing fear among residents. Wachi explained that relocating such snakes to protected areas helps ensure community safety.

The rescued python, he said, would be taken to a national park or zoo as a tourist attraction.

When some community members questioned why pythons that attack livestock should not be killed, Wachi assured them that UWA provides compensation for documented cases.

“We can compensate you if a python has killed or injured your animal. Simply provide evidence—such as the captured python alongside the affected animal—and we will compensate you instead of you killing it,” Wachi explained.

He also highlighted the importance of wildlife conservation for education and tourism.

“What will future generations learn from if all wildlife is destroyed? We must preserve our wildlife for future generations,” he said.

Wachi added that tourism contributes significantly to Uganda’s economy, and the existence of diverse wildlife has even led to the establishment of a new zoo in Mbale.

“There are many people who have never seen certain animals. By showcasing them in zoos and exhibitions, we educate the public and increase appreciation for wildlife,” Wachi said.