Today Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja oversaw the handover of the iconic Entebbe Botanical Gardens from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) to the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC).
The handover of this one of Africa’s oldest Botanical Gardens that was established in in 1898 and a home to over 115 bird species marks a new charter. on behalf of the Ministry, UWEC will now manage the Gardens.
The transfer was witnessed by Tourism Minister Tom Butiime and key industry stakeholders. This decision aims to unlock the Gardens’ full potential, revitalizing its infrastructure, trails, and amenities while enhancing security and implementing new marketing strategies.
“The complete transfer of the management for Entebbe Botanical Gardens.” Tourism minister Butime officially announced earlier the day.
“The gardens will now fall under the direct management of the Uganda Wildlife Education and Conservation Centre -UWEC, a statutory body under the ministry. “the minister Butime said. He added that this move will enable UWEC to offer visitors a seamless experience, combining fauna and flora attractions, ultimately enhancing revenue generation.
This development Butime revealed on Monday when the spouses of delegates attending the G77 summit visited UWEC, conveniently situated near the splendid gardens.
“The next step involves waiting for funds to facilitate the transformation of the gardens to enhance plant management, research, and tourism services in an improved and more effective manner.” the minister added in his comments on the matter.
The initiative was set in motion by a presidential directive issued last year to the Prime Minister. This directive came in response to reports of mismanagement of the gardens and concerns raised by visitors regarding security issues, including threats of its existence from various encroachers.
In may, the letter addressed to Prime Minister, the President issued an order for the transfer of the gardens to the tourism sector. Simultaneously, the President explicitly instructed that the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), which had been overseeing the gardens, should continue its plant-related research without any interruption.
The Director General of NARO Dr. Ambrose Agona had clarified that the construction on the offshore section of the extensive gardens was aimed at rehabilitating and enhancing the facilities. The goal was to enable the gardens to fulfill their core functions, including conservation, research, education, awareness, and providing a tranquil environment for the public.
Martin Mugara Bahinduka the state minister for Tourism commented on the matter saying that the transition is beneficial. He emphasized that the change in management should not be perceived negatively by the former administration, as collaboration will continue. However, he acknowledged that UWEC is expected to address some management challenges that have been identified over the years.
State Minister for Tourism continuously said that the move will lead to the expansion of UWEC, alleviating issues of overcrowding. Additionally, it will introduce components such as flora tourism, nature walks, and related activities to further enrich the offerings of the institution.
The Executive Director of UWEC Dr. James Musinguzi welcomed the move, acknowledging its potential to enhance the institution’s functionality. He awaits the formal handover to fully understand how the management transition will unfold however he refrained from offering further details on the matter.
There is a pressing need for additional funding to reach the required standard as an educational and conservation center however Dr James emphasized that with UWEC’s expanded activities and the inclusion of the botanical gardens under their purview.
The management of the gardens was placed under NARO in 1995. Before their transfer to large farms and open ecosystems, the botanical gardens were initially established exclusively for the examination and development of agricultural resources.
The gardens have evolved beyond their initial function as an agricultural research facility, transforming into a renowned tourism center over the years. Appreciated for its stunning landscapes, beautiful plants, refreshing shade, and cool environment, it has become a celebrated destination for its diverse flora, fauna, and scenic lakeshore.
To experience the unique offerings of the premises, currently visitors are charged entrance fees ranging from 2,000 to 20,000 shillings.
