Dr. James Musinguzi has been appointed as the new Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), replacing Sam Mwandha, whose two-year contract has ended.
His appointment marks a pivotal moment for UWA, promising new strategies and initiatives to elevate Uganda’s conservation and tourism sectors.
A seasoned tourism expert, Musinguzi brings a wealth of experience that will accelerate UWA’s growth and effectiveness.
Prior to this role, he served as the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), an institution that has since been merged with UWA.
His background in conservation education and management makes him well-equipped to lead UWA into a new era.
Musinguzi is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the Uganda Chimpanzee Conservation Association and holds a PhD in Business Administration and Management from Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
His extensive involvement with UWA dates back to 2006 when it was rebranded from Entebbe Zoo, demonstrating his deep-rooted commitment to wildlife conservation.
Over the years, he has steadily risen through the ranks, eventually becoming the Acting Executive Director before securing the substantive position.
Under his leadership, UWA has achieved remarkable growth, with Non-Tax Revenue increasing from UGX 1 billion to UGX 5.5 billion per annum. Visitor numbers have also surged significantly, from 400,000 in the FY 2022/2023 to 609,000 in the FY 2023/2024.
Musinguzi’s affiliations with global conservation bodies further strengthen his leadership profile.
He is a member of the prestigious World Association of Zoos and Aquaria (WAZA) and serves as a member and chair of the Pan African Association of Zoos and Aquaria (PAAZA). His international exposure is expected to attract strategic partnerships and investments that will enhance UWA’s operations and Uganda’s global tourism standing.
His appointment signals a promising future for UWA, with anticipated improvements in conservation strategies, enhanced revenue generation, and greater international collaboration.
As he takes on the mantle of leadership, stakeholders are optimistic that his vision and expertise will drive UWA towards greater efficiency, sustainability, and global recognition.