Uganda Wildlife Authority Assumes Full Command of Canine Units in Anti-Trafficking Fight

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has taken full charge of the country’s canine detection operations, cementing a decisive step in the fight against wildlife crime.

The transition, marked at the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre in Entebbe, ends a nine-year collaboration with the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) under the Canines for Conservation Program, launched in 2016 with U.S. backing.

AWF Chief Executive Kaddu Sebunya praised Uganda’s progress, noting that canine units now form a “frontline defense” across Africa. He also handed over three additional detection dogs to strengthen UWA’s capacity.

UWA says the program has transformed Uganda from a wildlife trafficking hotspot into an enforcement leader.

“Dogs cannot be bribed. Since we introduced them, we’ve made arrests, dismantled networks, and secured convictions, including a life sentence. Uganda is no longer on the blacklist,” said Charles Tumwesigye, UWA’s Director of Field Operations.

Currently, Uganda deploys 14 specially trained dogs and 22 handlers at airports, border posts, and in the field. The units have facilitated more than 360 arrests and seized contraband ranging from ivory to pangolin scales.

Imelda Imetur, who oversees UWA’s canine operations, hailed the discipline of the handlers, calling them the “unsung heroes” of the program.

Officials say the handover ensures long-term sustainability, guaranteeing that Uganda remains a difficult terrain for wildlife traffickers.