Uganda Takes Full Ownership of Canine Units in Landmark Step Against Wildlife Trafficking
Entebbe, Uganda – August 26, 2025 – In a significant move to bolster the fight against illegal wildlife trade, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has officially assumed full control and management of the canine detection units at Entebbe International Airport and Karuma. The transition, celebrated at a formal handover ceremony at the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC), marks the culmination of a successful nine-year partnership with the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) under the Canines for Conservation Program.
The event was attended by government officials, conservation partners, enforcement agencies, and media representatives. AWF CEO Kaddu Sebunya delivered a keynote address highlighting the program’s impact across Africa and Uganda’s growing leadership in combating wildlife crime.
“Africa is not waiting to be rescued from wildlife crime; Africa is building the tools, the systems, and the leadership to stop it,” said Sebunya. “Today is not just a transition—it is a celebration of nearly a decade of impact, innovation, and collaboration.”
A Proven Tool Against Trafficking
Launched in 2016, the Canines for Conservation Program was established to enhance Uganda’s enforcement capabilities using highly trained detection dogs. The units at Entebbe and Karuma—a key trafficking corridor in the Murchison Falls Conservation Area—have since become critical assets in intercepting illegal wildlife products such as ivory, pangolin scales, and rhino horn.
To date, the program has trained 28 rangers as handlers, deployed 14 skilled dogs, and established state-of-the-art facilities including kennels, housing, and operational rooms. Between 2016 and 2018, the units recorded 86 seizures, significantly disrupting trafficking networks. Although annual seizures have since decreased to 30–40, this decline is seen as a sign of successful deterrence.
More Than Detection
Beyond interceptions, the program has professionalized wildlife law enforcement. Handlers are now trained in animal welfare, crime scene management, and courtroom testimony, strengthening the entire judicial process. The units have also improved interagency collaboration with entities like the Uganda Revenue Authority, Uganda Police, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Rose Ssebatindira, AWF Country Director for Uganda, emphasized the national significance of the program: “These canine units have become part of Uganda’s identity in the fight against wildlife crime.”
Sustainability and Continued Support
From the beginning, AWF’s goal was to ensure local ownership. All dogs, facilities, and equipment have always belonged to the Government of Uganda. UWA has now fully integrated the canine units into its structure, creating dedicated positions and allocating budgets for future operations, training, and dog replacements.
In a symbolic gesture of continued partnership, AWF announced the donation of three additional trained dogs to further strengthen the Entebbe and Karuma units.
Dr. James Musinguzi, UWA Executive Director, affirmed the authority’s commitment: “We are proud to take full responsibility. These units are no longer pilots—they are a permanent feature of our enforcement strategy.”
A Model for Africa
Uganda now joins Botswana, Mozambique, and Cameroon where AWF has successfully transitioned canine programs to national ownership. Kenya and Tanzania are expected to follow.
The handover ceremony included a live demonstration of detection dogs at Entebbe Airport, with a second event planned for Karuma on September 5, 2025, to showcase tracker dogs in action.
This milestone underscores a broader truth: when Africa leads with ownership, investment, and cross-border collaboration, the future of conservation is secure.
About African Wildlife Foundation
AWF is the leading advocate for wildlife conservation and habitat protection in Africa. Founded in 1961, it works across science, education, policy, and field programs to promote a vision where people and wildlife thrive together.
About Uganda Wildlife Authority
UWA is the government agency responsible for managing and protecting Uganda’s wildlife both inside and outside protected areas.
