Gorilla tourism funds community growth in Uganda
Summary and headline written by AI from the source article. How we work
People living near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda are receiving increased income, jobs, and infrastructure thanks to growing tourism focused on mountain gorillas.
Uganda hosts over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, and visitor numbers to the two parks have risen sharply in recent years. Mgahinga saw visitor counts climb from 3,601 in 2021/22 to 6,222 in 2024/25, while Bwindi increased from 20,367 to 43,716 visitors over the same period.
This tourism generates revenue that Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) shares with local communities. In the year ending June 2025, UWA distributed 2.97 billion Ugandan Shillings to fund local projects and businesses. Community groups like the Buhoma Porters’ Association, employing around 500 people, provide services to tourists. The benefits extend beyond direct employment, reaching lodges, hospitality, and local markets.
Organisations like Change a Life Bwindi are also working to expand forest cover outside park boundaries by planting indigenous trees, easing pressure on the parks and restoring rainfall. These efforts, combined with improved roads, electricity, and connectivity, are helping communities envision a better future linked to gorilla conservation.
