UWA Opposed To Degazetting Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Oct 04, 2002
THE Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has opposed a proposal to convert Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve (2,152 square kilometres) in Karamoja, into a large scale farm for cultivation of fruits, reports Gerald Tenywa.
THE Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has opposed a proposal to convert Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve (2,152 square kilometres) in Karamoja, into a large scale farm for cultivation of fruits, reports Gerald Tenywa.
According to sources in UWA, Pian Upe, besides harbouring rare species such as the only remaining Roan antelopes in the country, has a unique ecological role.
It is a natural reservoir for water from the Mt. Elgon catchment area, which is released gradually to Lakes Opeta, Bisina and Kyoga.
Conservationists also fear that if its land use is changed, the arid conditions in Karamoja would further spread southward and increase the risk of ecological disasters in the region.
Lake Opeta is a protected area of international significance because it is a habitat supporting the biggest population of Shoebills, which are endangered birds.
Ends
According to sources in UWA, Pian Upe, besides harbouring rare species such as the only remaining Roan antelopes in the country, has a unique ecological role.
It is a natural reservoir for water from the Mt. Elgon catchment area, which is released gradually to Lakes Opeta, Bisina and Kyoga.
Conservationists also fear that if its land use is changed, the arid conditions in Karamoja would further spread southward and increase the risk of ecological disasters in the region.
Lake Opeta is a protected area of international significance because it is a habitat supporting the biggest population of Shoebills, which are endangered birds.
Ends