In response to growing concerns about security within national game parks, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has taken proactive measures to enhance surveillance by deploying unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) equipped with high-resolution cameras. The primary aim of this initiative is to monitor the parks for unauthorized and potentially harmful activities that may threaten the safety of both wildlife and visitors.

This decision follows a recent incident in which two foreign tourists and their driver were tragically attacked and killed by unknown individuals while inside a national park.

Bashir Hangi, the spokesperson for the UWA, emphasized that the drones will play a vital role in identifying and intercepting individuals engaged in illegal activities within the parks. The captured aerial footage can serve as valuable evidence for the apprehension and prosecution of wrongdoers, thus reinforcing the protection of wildlife and ensuring visitor safety.

Hangi further highlighted the significance of the drones as an integral addition to their existing security measures, with plans to acquire more in the future. Each drone is capable of covering a 15km area of the park per flight, and they operate for 10 hours daily under the supervision of a dedicated patrol team. The drones have already demonstrated their effectiveness in detecting illegal park entry and monitoring various activities.

In addition to drone usage, the UWA has implemented an array of security measures, including military patrols, park-wide searches with Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) soldiers, routine law enforcement patrols by the police and UWA officials, military intelligence efforts, and border monitoring.

Since the introduction of these comprehensive security measures, there has been a notable increase in the number of tourists returning to the park, including a significant influx of foreign tourists. Tourists have expressed renewed confidence in the safety of the park, and local authorities have encouraged visitors to explore the park without fear. The security situation is reportedly stable and calm, reassuring both wildlife enthusiasts and local communities.

The deployment of drones represents a significant step forward in enhancing security and protecting the diverse wildlife within Uganda’s national parks, preserving the natural beauty and unique ecosystems for future generations to enjoy.