Gov’t introduces new system to combat gorilla permit fraud
Gorilla and chimpanzee permits, issued by UWA for both local and foreign nationals undertaking tracking activities, have been susceptible to abuse, prompting the need for a more secure and efficient system.
The Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra, has announced the government’s initiative to implement a new booking and revenue collection system by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) aimed at combating fraud related to gorilla permits.
Gorilla and chimpanzee permits, issued by UWA for both local and foreign nationals undertaking tracking activities, have been susceptible to abuse, prompting the need for a more secure and efficient system.
“The new system will replace the previously misused gorilla and chimpanzee permit booking system,” stated Mugarra.
He revealed this development while addressing concerns about fraudulent activities at UWA during a plenary session chaired by Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, on October 5, 2023.
The concerns regarding fraud were raised by Rubanda County Member of Parliament, Hon. Moses Kamuntu, on October 4, 2023. The allegations prompted the Ministry to initiate an internal investigation into UWA staff.
“The alleged fraud was identified internally by UWA, leading to an internal audit conducted between June and August 2023,” explained Mugarra.
Preliminary findings pointed to potential fraud involving staff from UWA’s reservations, finance, and information technology departments at both the head office and in the field.
In response to these findings, a detailed investigation involving UWA staff and members of the Uganda Police Force was launched.
Mugarra stated, “Fourteen suspected staff members have been suspended to facilitate the investigation process.”
He also highlighted that certain tour companies might have been involved in the reported fraud and emphasized that these entities, along with the implicated UWA staff, would face legal action.
Additionally, the Trade Ministry has requested the Auditor General to conduct a comprehensive forensic audit, covering gorilla and chimpanzee bookings at Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Kibale national parks, as well as Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth national park, from July 2020 to September 2023.
Addressing concerns from parliamentarians, Mugarra assured that a detailed report of the investigations’ findings would be presented within a month.
Hon. Mary Begumisa urged the minister to engage with tour operators to ensure a comprehensive investigation, emphasizing the importance of involving all stakeholders in the tourism industry.
In light of the ongoing investigations, Deputy Speaker Tayebwa advised the House to withhold debate on the matter, allowing the investigative process to continue without interruption.
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