MBALE — Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has begun stocking the newly established UWEC-Mbale Zoo with wildlife ahead of its official inauguration on June 12, 2026, marking a major milestone in efforts to decentralize conservation education and tourism services across the country.
The animal translocation exercise, which started in late May, involves moving wildlife from existing facilities to the new regional satellite zoo located within the Mt. Elgon Conservation Area.
According to UWA, the first phase of the exercise will see a total of 16 animal species relocated to the facility. Several animals have already arrived and are settling into their new home, including two lions, a zebra, a waterbuck, an ostrich and peacocks.
The zoo has been designed to operate within a semi-wild environment, allowing visitors to experience wildlife in a more natural setting while promoting conservation awareness.
UWA officials say the Mbale facility will significantly reduce the distance many people in eastern Uganda travel to access wildlife education and tourism experiences.
For years, schools, families and tourists from the region have had to travel hundreds of kilometres to the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) in Entebbe to access conservation learning programmes and wildlife exhibits.
The new zoo is expected to bring these services closer to communities in eastern Uganda, making conservation education more accessible while inspiring greater public participation in wildlife protection.
Dr. Victor Musiime, UWA’s Senior Veterinary Doctor and leader of the translocation team, said the animals have adapted well to their new surroundings.
“All the animals are in good condition and adapting well to their new environment,” Dr. Musiime confirmed.
The establishment of satellite zoos forms part of a broader strategy to expand conservation outreach beyond traditional protected areas and major urban centres.
Conservation experts argue that bringing wildlife closer to communities helps foster appreciation for biodiversity and encourages citizens to take an active role in protecting Uganda’s natural heritage.
By creating regional conservation education centres, UWA hopes to strengthen public understanding of wildlife conservation while supporting domestic tourism and environmental awareness among young people.
The official opening of UWEC-Mbale Zoo is scheduled for June 12, 2026, when the facility will formally welcome visitors and begin offering conservation education programmes to schools, researchers and the general public.
The launch is expected to mark a new chapter in Uganda’s efforts to connect people with wildlife and promote conservation through education, tourism and community engagement.
