The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has undertaken another major conservation initiative by relocating three Nubian giraffes from Murchison Falls Conservation National Park to Ajai Wildlife Reserve in West Nile.The exercise is part of ongoing efforts to expand the range of the endangered species, strengthen wildlife conservation and promote tourism growth in the region.The relocation marks another important step in Uganda’s campaign to protect the Nubian giraffe, a species whose largest remaining wild population is found within the country’s protected areas.Dr. Patrick Atimnedi, the Assistant Director of Veterinary Services, said increasing giraffe populations across different ecosystems is essential in ensuring the long-term protection of the species from possible environmental and ecological threats.
While overseeing the translocation, Dr. Atimnedi explained that the exercise was conducted in accordance with internationally recognised conservation procedures. Before the move, experts carried out extensive scientific research, habitat assessments, disease risk evaluations and consultations with stakeholders to ensure the giraffes could safely adapt to their new environment.Ajai Wildlife Reserve was chosen after experts confirmed that the area has suitable ecological conditions to support giraffe populations. The reserve’s large acacia-covered landscape provides a favourable feeding environment and increases the chances of successful re-establishment of the species.Conservation specialists believe the return of giraffes to Ajai will contribute to restoring the reserve’s ecosystem and improving biodiversity.
The animals will play a role in managing vegetation while helping revive the area’s historical wildlife identity.The latest translocation adds to UWA’s previous conservation successes. In recent years, the authority has successfully relocated Nubian giraffes to several protected areas, including Lake Mburo National Park, Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre, creating new populations outside their traditional habitat.The programme is being implemented under UWA’s broader giraffe conservation strategy with support from the Giraffe Conservation Foundation.
Through this partnership, Uganda has enhanced its wildlife management capacity through specialised training, technical guidance and improved expertise in handling complex animal relocations.Officials say the presence of giraffes in Ajai Wildlife Reserve will go beyond conservation by increasing the reserve’s tourism appeal, attracting visitors to West Nile and creating economic opportunities for communities around the area.The initiative demonstrates Uganda’s continued commitment to protecting endangered wildlife while promoting sustainable tourism and development.The introduction of giraffes follows earlier wildlife restoration efforts by UWA, which saw the release of kobs, buffaloes and zebras into Ajai Wildlife Reserve as part of plans to rebuild its wildlife population
