The UWEC tourist numbers increase continues to reflect the centre’s growing appeal, despite entry fee hikes introduced a year ago. The Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) has recorded over 650,000 annual visitors, with projections set to hit 700,000 by the end of the year, according to David Musingo, First Chief Warden of UWEC.
“We are lucky to have positioned ourselves well,” Musingo said. “We’ve been receiving a big number of visitors and tourists.”
This surge is attributed to several upgrades, including improved infrastructure, better animal exhibits, and enhanced educational services. Musingo noted that the entry fee adjustments became necessary due to increased operational costs, particularly in animal care.
“We hadn’t raised fees in 10 years,” he said. “But costs for feeding and maintaining animals have gone up.”
The additional revenue has enabled UWEC to introduce new species, such as African hunting dogs and leopards, while also revamping key attractions like the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. The centre has expanded its education programs, allowing more school children to engage with wildlife conservation in a practical way.
“We’re committed to promoting tourism and conservation in Uganda,” Musingo emphasized.
Despite the increase—from Shs 6,000 to Shs 8,000 for students and a doubling of adult entry fees from Shs 10,000, visitor support has remained strong. Musingo expressed gratitude to schools and the public for embracing the changes.
“We thank the schools for their continued visits, and adults who have supported us despite the fee adjustment,” he added.
In addition, UWEC is expanding its reach. It has acquired 240 acres of land in Mbale, Gulu, Mbarara, and Kyenjojo to develop regional wildlife education centres. These satellite centres will focus on forest restoration, wildlife conservation, and promoting local tourism.
The Mbale centre, the first in this regional expansion, is nearing completion and is expected to open in the next financial year.
“We’re excited to share our developments with the public,” said Musingo. “We encourage visitors to experience the improvements we’ve made.”
With continuous investment in both facilities and outreach, UWEC’s growth strategy reflects its mission to become a top destination for wildlife education and conservation in East Africa. Musingo remains optimistic.
“We’re going to have more visitors despite some increment in entry fees,” he said.
The UWEC tourist numbers increase clearly signals that strategic improvements, educational value, and conservation impact continue to draw both local and international attention.