Kisoro Authorities Push for upgrade of Echuya Forest to National Park

KISORO – Authorities in Kisoro district are advocating for the government to elevate Echuya Central Forest Reserve to the status of a National Park, aiming to enhance efficient conservation efforts.

According to authorities once the forest comes under the jurisdiction of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), its potential to boost tourism development will be significantly amplified, given its role as a habitat for rare bird species.

Echuya Forest Reserve is the natural dwelling of approximately 150 bird species, with eighteen of them being exclusive to the reserve, including the elusive Grauer’s swamp warbler.

Joseph Senkoko, the Chairperson of Kanaba Sub-County, noted that Echuya forest was previously known for its abundance of natural bamboo trees, but due to degradation, their numbers have declined. He believes that upgrading the forest to a national park will facilitate the restoration of these rare qualities and bring other benefits.

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Alex Nambajimana, the Vice-chairperson of Kisoro district, revealed that the district council recently approved a motion supporting the upgrade of Echuya Forest to a National Park, and they earnestly hope for the government’s endorsement. Nambajimana emphasized that the forest’s management will be markedly improved once it receives National Park status, leading to more effective conservation outcomes.

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Jimmy Muhebwa, the Director of Conservation at Nature Uganda, stated that their efforts include providing energy-saving stoves to communities to reduce their reliance on firewood, which often leads to encroachment on the forest.

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During an event where 100 energy-saving stoves and gardening tools were distributed to locals residing near the Forest from the districts of Rubanda and Kisoro, Nambajimana made these comments. The support was provided by Nature Uganda, a local conservation organization that has been dedicatedly collaborating with communities to preserve the Echuya forest.

Echuya forest occupies a vital position in the biodiversity-rich Albertine Rift eco-region and holds global biodiversity significance. BirdLife categorizes it as an Important Bird Area due to its high diversity of bird species, some of which are globally threatened and endemic.

The forest boasts the extensive Muchuya Swamp, flowing from north to south along the reserve and draining it to the south. It is particularly renowned for its high-quality bamboo, Yushania Alpina, and also encompasses areas of broad-leaved forest, especially along the Eastern side and higher altitude northern end of the Kabale – Kisoro road.