Lake Mburo National Park is celebrating a wildlife win—its giraffe population has skyrocketed to over 100, up from just 15 in 2015.
This remarkable growth is a testament to the power of strategic conservation efforts, but it’s not without its challenges.
Let’s dive into the story behind this success and what it means for Uganda’s wildlife future.
From 15 to 100: How Lake Mburo Became a Giraffe Haven
In 2015, 15 Rothschild giraffes were translocated from Murchison Falls National Park to Lake Mburo. Fast forward eight years, and that number has surged to over 100.
This four-fold increase is a direct result of the park’s ideal habitat, reduced predator threats, and robust anti-poaching measures.
Allen Kenzarwa, a ranger guide at Lake Mburo, notes that the environment has been particularly favourable for the giraffes.
“Fewer predators and ample vegetation have allowed them to thrive,” she says.
But while the giraffes are flourishing, the park’s conservation team faces ongoing hurdles.
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Poaching, Water Shortages, and Human-Wildlife Conflict
Despite the success, Lake Mburo’s rangers are battling three major threats: poaching, water scarcity, and encroachment by local communities.
Poaching remains a persistent issue.
“We don’t have enough monitoring patrols,” Kenzarwa explains. “The park needs more ranger camps and patrol units to effectively combat poachers.”
Currently, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) relies on community informants to report illegal activities, but this isn’t enough to fully protect the park’s wildlife.
Water shortages during dry seasons add another layer of complexity. Animals struggle to find water, leading to stress and competition. While some water dams have been constructed, Kenzarwa stresses that more sustainable solutions are needed.
Then there’s the issue of human-wildlife conflict. Local cattle keepers often graze their livestock near the park, increasing the risk of disease transmission and habitat encroachment.
Balancing the needs of the community with wildlife conservation is a delicate act—one that requires ongoing dialogue and innovative solutions.
A Rich Biodiversity Worth Protecting
Lake Mburo National Park isn’t just about giraffes. Spanning 370 square kilometers, the park is a biodiversity hotspot, home to 4,000 zebras, over 2,000 impalas (the only population in Uganda), and 350 species of birds.
Predators like leopards, hyenas, and crocodiles also roam the park, making it a vital sanctuary for Uganda’s wildlife.
But there’s a catch. Despite its rich biodiversity, the park lacks sufficient tourist accommodations. With only about ten lodges—few of which are inside the park—most visitors sleep outside its boundaries.
“We need more lodges to attract and accommodate tourists,” Kenzarwa emphasizes.
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Conservation Efforts: What’s Working and What’s Next
The giraffe population boom is a clear indicator that Lake Mburo’s conservation strategies are paying off.
Translocation, habitat management, and anti-poaching initiatives have all played a role. However, experts agree that more needs to be done.
Bashir Hangi, UWA’s head of communication and public relations, highlights the importance of continued investment in conservation.
“The growing giraffe population shows how well the park supports wildlife,” he says. “But we must remain vigilant.”
Strengthening monitoring efforts, building more ranger camps, and improving water infrastructure are top priorities.
Additionally, developing more lodges and tourist facilities could boost revenue, creating a sustainable cycle of conservation and economic growth.
A Beacon of Hope for Uganda’s Wildlife
Lake Mburo National Park’s success story is a shining example of what’s possible when conservation efforts are prioritized.
From 15 giraffes to over 100, the park has proven that with the right strategies, wildlife can thrive even in the face of challenges.
But the work isn’t over. As poaching, water shortages, and human-wildlife conflict persist, the need for innovative solutions and community collaboration has never been greater.
With continued effort, Lake Mburo can remain a sanctuary for Uganda’s wildlife and a model for conservation success.
