UGANDA SIGNS AGREEMENT TO PROTECT MIGRATORY BIRDS OF PREY.

Kampala, Uganda – March 19, 2025 – Uganda has officially joined over 65 countries in signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa (Raptors MOU), marking a key step in the country’s commitment to wildlife conservation.

The event, held at Sheraton Kampala Hotel was presided over by Hon. Martin Mugarra, the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities. The agreement aims to enhance conservation efforts for raptors—birds of prey such as hawks, eagles, vultures, falcons, and owls, many of which are migratory and face increasing threats. A number of them are migratory in nature. There are more than 500 species across the globe, and Uganda has around 91 species. Sadly, their population is declining at a fast rate.

Addressing the delegates and participants, the Hon. Minister observed that Raptors are important ecological and environmental indicators. They attract tourists and generate revenue and other social, economic and cultural benefits.

The Minister further noted that the deteriorating quality of environmental and ecological services is increasingly affecting the conservation and protection of Raptors and human survival.

He pledged the Ministry’s commitment to development and implementation of a National Raptors Conservation and Management Strategy in the coming months.

He called upon stakeholders and partners to join and support the government in implementing targeted interventions aimed at halting the declining population of Raptors in Uganda and across their range.