Minister Of State For Tourism Applauds CTC’s Bold Vision To Transform Conservation Into Opportunity
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
The Minister of State for Tourism, Hon. Susan Nakawukyi, has commended the Conservation Through Commercialisation Center (CTC) for its innovative approach to wildlife conservation, describing it as a model that demonstrates how conservation and tourism can work together to create sustainable economic opportunities.
Hon. Nakawukyi made the remarks during her familiarisation visit to CTC, a privately managed wildlife conservation facility located in Lukalu Village, Mpigi District, where she was received by the CTC Founder, Mr. Thomas Price.
The Minister was accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, including Mr. Charles Kijjambu, a Wildlife Officer representing the Commissioner in charge of Wildlife, representatives from Uganda Wildlife Authority, legislators from Mpigi District, tourism private sector players and members of the media.
The visit was part of the Minister’s nationwide familiarisation tour aimed at engaging tourism stakeholders, appreciating ongoing initiatives and identifying opportunities that can enhance Uganda’s tourism growth and global competitiveness.
Located approximately 36–43 kilometres southwest of Kampala along the Kampala–Masaka Road, the CTC Center operates under the philosophy of “Conservation Through Commercialisation” a model designed to make wildlife conservation economically sustainable while creating opportunities for communities, education and tourism.
The facility specialises in wildlife rescue, breeding programmes and eco-tourism, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience Uganda’s biodiversity in a controlled conservation environment.
CTC Founder Thomas Price highlighted the centre’s growth and future expansion plans, noting that the facility currently hosts more than 45 species and has acquired an additional 20 acres of land to support expansion, including plans to introduce elephants and further develop its conservation programmes.
The centre is also establishing an airstrip to facilitate the transfer of endangered animals to the facility, strengthening its role in wildlife rescue and conservation efforts.
Visitors to CTC can experience a diverse collection of native and endemic species, including lions, giraffes, warthogs, peacocks, spotted hyenas, African hunting dogs, zebras, impalas, bat-eared foxes, tortoises, lemurs and other unique wildlife species. The facility also supports specialised breeding programmes, including efforts focused on African golden cats and venomous snakes.
Speaking during the visit, Hon. Nakawukyi described CTC as an important addition to Uganda’s tourism offering, emphasising the need for authentic storytelling and stronger collaboration between government, conservation actors and the private sector in promoting Uganda as a preferred tourism destination.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase Uganda’s conservation success stories and create new experiences for visitors,” the Minister said, calling for a consolidated national effort to market Uganda’s diverse tourism attractions.
She highlighted the importance of promoting destinations across the country, including the scenic landscapes of Kasese and the Rwenzori Mountains, while encouraging both domestic and international visitors to explore Uganda’s unique tourism products.
The Minister also reassured visitors that Uganda remains open, safe and welcoming, urging stakeholders to counter misinformation and continue promoting the country’s tourism potential.
The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities continues to support partnerships that promote conservation, responsible tourism and sustainable use of Uganda’s natural heritage as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s position as a leading tourism destination in Africa.
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