Rubanda District has stepped up preparations for this year’s World Gorilla Day celebrations, with conservationists and local leaders calling for greater community involvement in protecting mountain gorillas and their habitats.
The celebrations are scheduled for Thursday, October 1, at Ruhija Church of Uganda in Ruhija Town Council.
The activities ahead of the celebrations started with a tree-planting exercise in Ruhija Town Council, led by Bwindi-Mgahinga Conservation Area (BMCA) Chief Warden Richard Muhabwe.
Muhabwe commended communities for their continued participation in conservation activities, saying their involvement is critical to protecting the forests that provide a habitat for mountain gorillas.
He urged residents to remain committed to environmental conservation, noting that protecting forests and other natural habitats is vital for the survival of mountain gorillas and the sustainability of tourism in the region.
“Protecting the environment is not only about conserving gorillas but also ensuring that communities continue to benefit from tourism and other resources provided by nature,” Muhabwe said.
The World Gorilla Day celebrations are expected to bring together government officials, conservation partners, local leaders, communities and other stakeholders to raise awareness about gorilla conservation and the need to protect their natural habitats.
Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Minister Tom Butime is expected to attend the celebrations as the chief guest.
The Writer Kobugabe Joanita, is a Communication Officer for Rubanda District Local Government.
