Rangers in Uganda's Murchison Falls National Park have begun relocating 12 endangered Nubian giraffes, a move officials say is critical for conservation efforts amidst increasing oil drilling activities in the region. The translocation, covering 106 kilometers (65 miles) to the Ajai Wildlife Reserve, is expected to last a few days and aims to preserve the species, enhance biodiversity, and diversify tourism.
An estimated 40% of Uganda's oil deposits are located within Murchison Falls National Park. In June 2023, TotalEnergies commenced oil drilling in the Tilenga project area within the park, leading to heightened activity and the movement of heavy machinery, despite opposition from environmentalists.
Patrick Atimnedi, assistant commissioner for veterinary services at the Uganda Wildlife Authority, stated that establishing new populations in protected areas will reduce pressure on existing habitats should significant damage occur due to drilling. He noted that oil and gas activities, alongside tourism development, climate change, and invasive species, are shrinking the giraffes' habitat.
"So having a seed population somewhere about 100 kilometers (62 miles) away from here within the same conservation area, the same zone, is the right conservation decision to make," Atimnedi said.
The operation began with rangers guiding three giraffes into trucks, where they were provided with tree branches to chew during the journey. At Ajai Wildlife Reserve, rangers prepared to receive the animals in their new 166-square-kilometer (64-square-mile) home.
Ajai Wildlife Reserve, once home to diverse wildlife, saw its populations decimated in the early 1980s due to poaching and insecurity. The reintroduction of Nubian giraffes is part of an ongoing ecological restoration effort, which also includes reintroducing southern white rhinos, buffalo, zebras, and Uganda kobs. Wilson Katamigwa, the senior warden at Ajai, reported that these reintroduced animals are thriving and multiplying.
Wildlife authorities are optimistic about Ajai serving as a new sanctuary despite human pressures and natural threats. Part of the reserve is being fenced, and ranger numbers have increased to combat poaching. Local communities, who receive a share of tourism revenues, have been engaged in conservation education. Katamigwa expressed confidence in a strong working relationship with district leadership and communities.
Once the translocation is complete, community members will be invited to the reserve to see the giraffes, which have been absent from the area for decades. The long-term vision is for Ajai to become an economic driver for the Madi Okollo district through tourism. Community member Moses Ayoti conveyed excitement about the giraffes' return and the potential benefits, stating, "The community is aware, the vigilance is high, and I am sure they are going to take care of the animals because they belong to the local community, too."