Uganda Tourism Ministry Embarks on Fencing Game Parks

What is happening

The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, working through the Uganda Wildlife Authority, has embarked on an ambitious project to fence several of Uganda’s game parks and national parks. The goal is to curb human–wildlife conflict by reducing cases where animals stray into neighboring villages, damage crops, and endanger human lives. One of the most recent efforts has been at Murchison Falls National Park, where over 80 kilometers of electric fencing have already been installed across districts that border the park, including Buliisa, Nwoya, Masindi, and Kiryandongo.

The reasons behind the fencing initiative

Communities living near Uganda’s parks have for decades endured challenges caused by elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife that frequently wander beyond protected boundaries. These animals often destroy crops, damage homes, and sometimes cause tragic loss of life. By fencing off key sections of the parks, the government hopes to create harmony between people and wildlife, protecting both sides from conflict. The initiative is also part of a broader conservation strategy, aimed at reinforcing park boundaries, discouraging poaching, and helping secure wildlife corridors where needed.

Progress so far

The fencing project has already made noticeable progress. At Murchison Falls National Park, 81 kilometers of electric fencing have been set up, with significant portions completed in Nwoya and Buliisa districts. Other sections of the park boundary, including those in Masindi and Kiryandongo, are also benefiting from the program. Earlier pilot projects had been tried in other protected areas, including Queen Elizabeth National Park, where smaller stretches of solar-powered electric fences were built to test feasibility. With these successes, the government has now committed to expanding fencing across more parks, including additional phases planned for Murchison Falls and beyond.

Challenges encountered

Despite the achievements, several challenges have emerged in the process. The cost of constructing and maintaining electric fences is high, particularly since much of the material—such as solar units, wiring, and poles—needs to be imported. Boundaries also remain a contentious issue in some locations, as disputes over where park land ends and community land begins complicate the process of demarcation. Environmental assessments have also slowed down progress in certain places, as the government seeks to ensure that construction does not have negative ecological consequences. At the community level, while many people welcome the protection, there are concerns about restricted access, potential risks from the electric current, and how compensation will be handled for any continued wildlife damage.

Implications and what this means going forward

If managed carefully, the fencing initiative could transform the relationship between Uganda’s parks and surrounding communities. Reduced crop losses, fewer human injuries, and greater safety for local people may result in stronger community support for conservation. This would not only safeguard wildlife but also enhance the tourism experience, as visitors benefit from a safer and more secure environment. However, experts caution that poorly planned fences could interfere with animal movements and fragment habitats, underscoring the need to design corridors and maintain ecological balance.

Suggestions for success

For the fencing project to achieve long-term success, it is essential to keep communities fully involved in decision-making. Local voices must be heard in determining where fences are placed, how access is managed, and what forms of compensation will be available. Regular monitoring and timely maintenance of the fences are equally crucial to ensure their effectiveness. At the same time, fencing should be complemented with other strategies such as early-warning systems, buffer zones, and sustainable livelihood programs for neighboring communities. This combination will create a holistic approach that secures both wildlife and people, while maintaining Uganda’s reputation as one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.