The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has started the phased translocation of 200 Uganda Kobs from Murchison Falls National Park to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve in a major conservation drive to restore wildlife, build ecological resilience, and grow tourism in Karamoja.
The exercise kicked off on Wednesday, 19th August, with UWA wildlife capture, veterinary and law enforcement teams working to capture, handle, transport and release the animals safely. The 200 Kobs will be moved in phases to ensure the safety of both animals and personnel.
Safety is our top priority
Dr Patrick Atimnedi, Assistant Commissioner for Veterinary Services and Team Leader, said the operation follows international best practice.
“Our priority is the safety of personnel, the animals and equipment, while ensuring that the animals are delivered safely, acclimatise, and eventually establish themselves in their new habitat in Pian,” Dr Atimnedi said.
He further noted that the translocation is being conducted in strict adherence to IUCN guidelines for conservation translocation and UWA’s species-specific protocols developed over years of experience.
The intervention aims to expand the range of Uganda Kobs, diversify wildlife populations in Pian Upe, and strengthen tourism, with benefits expected to extend to neighbouring communities.
A significant intervention for ecological recovery
Afande Bwire Isaih, Chief Warden of Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, described the exercise as critical for restoring the reserve’s wildlife and ecosystems.
He said introducing Uganda Kobs will enhance population viability, demographic stability, and genetic diversity, while strengthening founder populations in the reserve.
“As the Pian Upe Conservation Area family, we are very proud of UWA and all our partners for this thoughtful exercise,” Bwire said.
He added that the move underscores UWA’s commitment to restoring protected areas affected by prolonged human pressure and habitat degradation.
Tourism and Community Benefits Expected
UWA says the translocation will significantly boost Pian Upe’s wildlife diversity and tourism appeal. This is expected to create opportunities for communities through tourism-related employment, enterprises and other benefits along the value chain.
The operation has drawn support from conservation and tourism partners, including Kobs Safaris in Pian Upe, who are on the ground to witness and support the operation.
The exercise is part of UWA’s broader wildlife population management strategy to restore and strengthen wildlife populations across Uganda’s protected areas, enhance ecosystem resilience, and ensure conservation delivers lasting ecological, tourism and socio-economic benefits.
