Uganda's gorilla tourism drives conservation and community benefits

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda has become a striking example of how a vibrant tourist economy can bolster the conservation of endangered mountain gorillas. Tourists pay substantial permit fees to view the primates, and a revenue-sharing policy channels money back to neighboring communities, helping fund water provision, health care and other services. For foreign non-residents, the gorilla permit runs about $800, and communities also receive 20% of park entry fees annually.

Rangers and local guides say the gorilla economy has strengthened the social contract around conservation. Joyleen Tugume, a ranger-guide in Bwindi, says residents and visitors alike are moved when a sick or injured gorilla is reported. 'If we know there is a gorilla that is sick, you see everyone is concerned,' she added. 'Even the community people. Everyone is touched.'

Poaching has declined as authorities work with local communities and former poachers who now act as watchdogs on the forest edge. The network includes a group of about 128 people who monitor trails and assist patrols. Mujuni, a former poacher who joined the conservation effort, said the 2020 killing of Rafiki helped spur the reform movement and a shift toward protecting gorillas instead of killing them.

Peter Tumwesigye, a member of the reform group, said those who lead to a gorilla's death should be jailed so others learn not to repeat the mistake.

Beyond Bwindi, the Virunga Massif spans parts of Congo, Rwanda and Uganda. About half of the remaining mountain gorillas live in Uganda, with Bwindi hosting 27 habituated families and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park containing one.

Population trends have improved since 2018, when surveys found the mountain gorilla population exceeded 1,000 individuals, a notable rebound after near-extinction in the previous century.

Gorillas face threats from habitat loss, disease and encroachment, but conservation projects tied to tourism have shown progress. World Gorilla Day, observed on Sept. 24, highlights the species and ongoing efforts to protect them in the Virunga Massif and beyond.

Experts say the Ugandan model — combining tourism revenue with community development and joint enforcement — offers a template for balancing conservation with livelihoods in the region.