Conservation stake holders , local leaders and community representatives gathered at the Bukedea district Headquarters on Friday 23rd for a meeting at shaping a comprehensive management plan for the Pian UPE wildlife reserve, one of Uganda's largest and most significant protested areas which was convened by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)

Pian UPE Wildlife reserve which spans over 2043Square km across Karamoja region and parts of Bukedea district is a home of endangered species , including cheetahs and some bird species.

However, the reserve faces an increasing threat from poaching , human - wildlife conflict , enrichment and climate related challenges.

"We are here to ensure that voices of the people who live around Pian UPE game reserve are reflected on how it is managed" said James Okware , the senior warden incharge Pian UPE game reserve. He also continued to say that the conservation of wildlife both flora and fauna can't succeed without the participation of local communities.

The meeting featured an interactive session where community leaders raised issues such as livestock predation by wild animals, restricted access to grazing areas and the need for benefit sharing mechanism for tourism and conservation projects .

Ms. Tino Hellen Grace , Secretary for social Services in the District Council emphasised on the need for a mutual understanding.

" People need to see that they are not losing land or livelihood without anything in return . Conservation must go hand in hand with community empowerment" she emphasised .

The LC3 chairperson Kamutur subcounty, Ojekede Jackson proposed solutions like demarcation of the reserve which would include improved fencing , community scouts to assist with the wild life monitoring.

The District Speaker, Hon. Emong Juma emphasised on the need to give the district leadership a tour of the game reserve so that they can appreciate the importance of the gave reserve and also carry out Sensitisation to the rest of the communities.

The draft management plan which was presented by Mr. James Okware included components on habitat restoration , anti poaching strategies , education, awareness and infrastructural development.

The Principal Assistant Secretary, Joseph Ochom reaffirmed the district's support on conservation of the game reserve.

"This is not just about protecting animals , but also securing our national heritage for future generations as it is a treasure and we all have a role to protect it