Steven Asuma, International Gorilla Conservation Programme’s (IGCP) country representative in Uganda reports that community leaders and government agencies are participating actively in the ongoing investigation. “Everyone is very concerned about this incident, which is a testimony to the value that local communities and government alike place on these animals.” It is reported that 3 men have been arrested.

This incident happened in the Bujengwe area. IGCP reports that meetings between Uganda Wildlife Authority and local leaders, community members and district officials have been happening with the objective of stepping up vigilance towards poaching and other illegal activities. Mr Asuma also reports that “while there are several programmes to share revenue from mountain gorilla tourism with communities around protected areas, we still have poaching for small antelope happening in the park. The community near where this happened has not yet been specifically targeted for tourism development and the sensitization and direct benefits that comes with it.”

Volcanoes Safaris believes that long-term partnerships between ecotourism companies, local communities, conservation bodies, governments and donors are essential to the survival of the great apes. We continue to work towards improving tourism infrastructure, training local people in hospitality and guiding to ensure the increase in skills and income amongst members of local communities and ensure they earn a stake in gorilla tourism. For more information please see http://www.volcanoessafaris.com/about-us/community/.