By Spy Uganda
Dr Musinguzi James’ Profile for PAP Global Award in 2024 https://youtu.be/aW1TM_5vv94?si=hCO9JOFhvUbQhf4d
In a significant move for Uganda’s wildlife conservation sector, Dr. James Musinguzi has been appointed as the new Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), effective April 1, 2025. This announcement comes on the heels of Dr. Musinguzi’s remarkable achievements in conservation, including his recognition with the 2024 African Heritage Conservationist Award by the Pan-African Pyramid. His appointment marks a new chapter for UWA, as he brings a wealth of experience, visionary leadership, and a proven track record of transformative impact to the role.
Dr. Musinguzi succeeds Mr. Sam Mwandha, whose two-term tenure at UWA was marked by commendable achievements and a strong foundation for conservation efforts. Known for his tireless work ethic and innovative approach, Dr. Musinguzi is widely regarded as the ideal leader to build on this legacy and steer UWA toward even greater heights.
Prior to his appointment as UWA Executive Director, Dr. Musinguzi served as the Executive Director and CEO of the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) from December 2010 until its merger with UWA in October 2024. His tenure at UWEC was nothing short of transformative, characterized by groundbreaking initiatives that elevated the institution to regional and international prominence.
Under his leadership, UWEC underwent a dramatic overhaul, becoming a hub for wildlife conservation, education, and eco-tourism. Key achievements during his time at UWEC include:
– Enhanced Visitor Experiences: Dr. Musinguzi introduced innovative tourism products, such as the floating restaurant on Lake Victoria, which combined conservation awareness with unique visitor experiences.
– Infrastructure Development: He oversaw the construction of state-of-the-art animal exhibits, including a new giraffe enclosure, an elephant holding area, and an expanded chimpanzee island, significantly improving animal welfare and visitor engagement.
– Financial Growth: UWEC’s budget grew exponentially under his leadership, from Shs4.469 billion in 2017/2018 to Shs21.6 billion in 2023/24, with non-tax revenue also seeing a substantial increase.
– Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation: The number of animals rescued by UWEC more than doubled during his tenure, from 152 in 2017 to 348 in 2023, reflecting his deep commitment to wildlife conservation.
Following the UWEC-UWA merger in October 2024, Dr. Musinguzi was appointed as UWA’s Director of Community Conservation, where he continued to demonstrate his exceptional leadership and strategic vision. His promotion to Executive Director is a testament to his unparalleled expertise and dedication to Uganda’s wildlife and natural heritage.
As Dr. Musinguzi prepares to assume his new role, expectations are high. His proven ability to drive innovation, foster community engagement, and secure sustainable funding positions him as the ideal leader to guide UWA into a new era of growth and conservation excellence. His appointment has been met with widespread enthusiasm, offering renewed hope for Uganda’s wildlife and natural ecosystems.
With his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment, Dr. Musinguzi is poised to build on UWA’s successes and address the challenges facing Uganda’s conservation efforts. His track record of transformative impact at UWEC and his recognition as a global conservation leader make him the perfect fit for this critical role. As he steps into this position, the nation eagerly anticipates the positive changes his leadership will bring to Uganda’s wildlife conservation landscape.
Below is Dr.Musinguzi’s Full Profile
Dr. James Musinguzi, now Executive Director Uganda wild life Authority (UWA) is a distinguished Ugandan conservationist and educator,born on July 27, 1977, in Kyegegwa District, Western Uganda. His passion for biology and the environment has been the cornerstone of his extensive career in wildlife conservation.
Education Background:
Dr. Musinguzi’s academic journey is rooted in the sciences:
-Bachelor of Science in Education (Biology), barara University of Science and Technology.
-Master of Science in Environment Conservation Biology, barara University of Science and Technology.
-Master of Business Administration, Uganda Martyrs University, Nkozi.
-Postgraduate Diploma in Development Studies,Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Dr. Musinguzi’s career reflects a steadfast commitment to wildlife conservation and education.
-2002 to January 2006, served as an administrator in the Office of the Academic Registrar at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, where he also lectured and conducted research in conservation biology.
-March 2006, joined the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), commonly known as Entebbe Zoo, as an Education Officer. He later advanced to the role of Manager in charge of Environment Conservation Education.
-December 2010, appointed as the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of UWEC. Under his leadership, UWEC was recognized as the best zoo in East, West, and Central Africa by the Pan African Association of Zoos and Aquaria in 2015.
-October 2024: Elevated to the position of Director for Community Conservation for all protected areas in Uganda, following the merger of UWEC and UWA.
-February 2025: Appointed as the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Contributions and Initiatives:
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Musinguzi has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at enhancing wildlife conservation and education:
-Children’s Zoo: In collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), he led efforts to establish a children’s conservation education center at UWEC. This initiative allows young learners to interact closely with domestic animals, fostering a connection with wildlife from an early age.
-Regional Zoos Expansion: Under his guidance, plans were set in motion to establish regional zoos in various parts of Uganda, including Gulu, Mbale, Mbarara, and Kyenjojo. This move aims to decentralize wildlife education and conservation efforts, making them more accessible to communities across the country
Professional Affiliations:
Dr. Musinguzi holds several notable positions in the conservation community:
– President: Pan African Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
-Committee Member: Conservation and Sustainability Committee of the World Association of Zoos and Aquaria.
-Board Member: Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust in Uganda.
Dr. Musinguzi’s dedication to wildlife conservation and education has significantly contributed to Uganda’s environmental preservation efforts.is leadership continues to inspire and shape the future of conservation in the region. We wish all the best here at Pan African Pyramid and Spy Uganda.
