Following a recent incident in which suspected ADF rebels allegedly killed a British and South African tourist couple and their guide in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has implemented a series of comprehensive security enhancements.
These measures in Queen Elizabeth National Park encompass the establishment of a permanent military presence, intensified police and military patrols on park roads, the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), popularly known as drones, for aerial surveillance, community engagement and education initiatives, and the mobilization of local residents as the first line of defense.
Pontius Ezuma, Chief Warden of Queen Elizabeth Conservation Area, emphasized that these security upgrades aim to protect both visitors and wildlife, and notably, the recent incident has not significantly deterred the number of tourists visiting the park.
Additionally, Bashir Hangi, UWA Manager for Communication, stressed the significance of drone surveillance systems in enhancing security and preserving wildlife habitats within Queen Elizabeth National Park. These drones provide real-time insights into park activities, enabling swift and informed responses to potential threats.
He also revealed plans to deploy drones in five other conservation areas, with the eventual goal of equipping all 22 conservation areas with surveillance drones. Visitors, such as Csillar Saxer from Switzerland, have expressed their confidence in the visible military presence and vigilant guides, reinstating trust in the security of their park visits.
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