Uganda’s conservation sector is marking a historic milestone following the arrival of eight southern white rhinos from South Africa.
The animals, now under care at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, bring the country’s total rhino population to 59.
Authorities plan to relocate at least 20 to Ajai Wildlife Reserve as part of a long-term strategy to restore rhinos to their natural habitats.
Speaking on Next Radio’s Morning Switch, Principal Wildlife Officer Michael Mugabe, who plays a key role in the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, described the milestone as more than a conservation win—it is a national opportunity.
“We now have the chance to increase the population of these magnificent beings,” he said.
“By moving some of them to Ajai, we diversify tourist traffic and support new communities that will host the rhinos. Everyone benefits from tourism.”
Mugabe’s passion for wildlife began long before his ministry career. Growing up in Nsambya–Makindye, he lived a sheltered yet curiosity-filled childhood.
“I’m the kind of person who wanted to understand difficult things,” he recalls.
“I was always dismantling gadgets to find out how they worked. That curiosity shaped everything."
Although he did not have a defined career path as a child, occasional visits to the zoo sparked a fascination with nature’s “vast landscapes and big animals,” particularly lions.
He says it was the interconnectedness of ecosystems—how predators, prey, and habitats interact—that drew him fully into ecology and wildlife science.
Mugabe credits his parents for nurturing his curiosity. His father, a former military officer, encouraged him to pursue any ambition.
“He would tell me I could be anything—a doctor, a chemist. There was always room to explore,” Mugabe recalls.
This curiosity led him to Makerere University, where he worked as a research assistant studying butterflies and later rodents in Mabira Forest.
“You learn a lot from ecosystems when you study them at that level,” he says.
During one of these research projects, Mugabe discovered a vacancy at the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, which launched his public service journey.
“People say it’s hard to get a job on merit in Uganda, but it actually happens. That vacancy was a turning point,” he explains.
Today, as Principal Wildlife Officer, Mugabe oversees policy implementation, human–wildlife conflict management, and government strategy on wildlife matters.
He contributes to legislation, strategic planning, and crisis decision-making—some of the most challenging aspects of his role.
He credits mentors such as former boss Ankankwasa Barigera and Permanent Secretary Doreen Kansiime for shaping his leadership approach.
Beyond rhinos, Mugabe believes tourism benefits all Ugandans. He highlights farmers supplying hotels, families enjoying seasonal activities, and attractions like UWEC Entebbe, which draw thousands of visitors annually.
“These products are designed to improve visitor experience, but they also support livelihoods,” he says.
As Uganda strengthens its position as a conservation leader, Mugabe hopes the public will continue to value the natural heritage he has dedicated his life to understanding and protecting.