MINISTER BUTIME IMPRESSED BY READINESS OF 1,358 RANGER RECRUITS AHEAD OF HISTORIC LUGAYA PASS-OUT
The Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, expressed satisfaction yesterday with the preparedness of 1,358 ranger recruits training at Uganda Wildlife Authority’s (UWA) Lugaya Training School in Murchison Falls National Park, following his visit to assess their readiness ahead of the pass-out ceremony scheduled for 4 December 2026.
Accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Butime was received by UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi and other senior UWA officials before inspecting a guard of honour mounted in his honour.
The recruits, who form the school’s pioneer cohort, showcased their skills in range shooting, martial arts and parade drills, demonstrating the practical competencies acquired during training in preparation for wildlife protection and law enforcement duties.
Addressing the recruits, Hon. Butime reminded them of the responsibility entrusted to them, noting that their selection from among many applicants was an opportunity to serve the country by safeguarding its wildlife resources. He challenged them to uphold discipline, dedication and professionalism as they prepare to take on their duties.
The Minister urged the recruits to apply their training responsibly, particularly when dealing with poachers and managing encounters with wildlife. He emphasised the importance of exercising sound judgement while protecting wildlife, ensuring their own safety and safeguarding the communities they will serve.
He commended UWA and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) for their contribution to the training programme, applauding the resilience, determination and discipline exhibited by the recruits. Satisfied with their performance, Hon. Butime expressed confidence in their readiness and said he looked forward to witnessing their pass-out on 4 December.
Beyond their professional responsibilities, the Minister encouraged the recruits to maintain the discipline instilled during training in their personal lives. He particularly cautioned them against preventable health risks, including HIV/AIDS, stressing the importance of safeguarding their health and wellbeing as they transition into service.
As part of the visit, the Commissioner for Wildlife Conservation at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Mr. George Owoyesigire, delivered a lecture on the legal and policy framework governing Uganda’s wildlife sector.
The session highlighted the Ministry’s mandate in sector planning, budgeting, policy development, coordination and regulation of international wildlife trade. It also explored the institutional relationship between the Ministry and UWA, the broader tourism development agenda and the role of partners in advancing wildlife conservation.
Beyond marking a historic milestone for Lugaya Training School, the graduation of its pioneer cohort will represent a significant step in strengthening UWA’s operational capacity to safeguard wildlife, enforce conservation laws and respond to emerging conservation challenges across Uganda.
