For the Wildlife Research and Training Institute (UWRTI) role in Tourism research, The Ministry of Tourism has promised to support it.
At Katwe-Kabatoro in Kasese District is where the institute is located with a mandate to provide research, training, and consultancy services in the wildlife sector.
“The development of the tourism sector and conservation of nature can only happen if there is a commitment to conduct research.” Martin Mugara Bahinduka the state minister for Tourism said.
At the first annual wildlife research symposium, he was the chief guest at the institute in Kasese.
“It’s been unfortunate that many people have conducted vital research notably for academic purposes but their findings are never shared with the government or any agencies.” He added.
What is a role of UWRTI (Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute).
In Wildlife and Tourism Management, wildlife Research and Training Institute is the only middle-level institution that provides professional and technical training.
Uganda Wildlife Research and Training institute also offers tailor-made courses in conservation and sustainable development of wildlife and natural resource management.
What are challenges faced by UWRTI?
Research subjects on wildlife-human conflict and invasive species in the park present the ministry and park authorities with numerous solutions to address such problems.
Queen Elizabeth National Park and other National Parks in Uganda are battling a number of invasive species that are threatening wildlife habitats.
In a report in 2021, the Auditor General found that 11 invasive and exotic plant species threatening conservation efforts team in Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo, Murchison Falls, and Kidepo Valley National Parks.
What are solutions to the challenges faced by UWRTI?
“The current progress in the environmental sector is heavily dependent on the application of research and new innovations.” The minister said.
“The symposium brought different researchers together to share what they have been doing.” Robert Baluku, the principal of UWRTI said.
To support research programs, the government has improved the UWRTI funding from the annual 3 billion to 5.1 billion with the 2bn.
To support the Institution’s master plan, Baluku said there is a need for more funding
“it’s important for the government, companies, and organizations to consider research findings and recommendations in decision-making.” Professor John Kasenene said.
He urged higher institutions of learning, including learners to engage in research and innovations urging that it helps in the socio-economic transformation.
Bosco Atukwase who has conducted research on Glossina species and their distribution in the selected areas northern of Queen Elizabeth National Park said it’s unfortunate that many institutions are struggling to address certain challenges and yet there is research that would help them.
