Abstract:

Because of its unique bio-geographical location, Uganda boasts of very rich biodiversity compared to many African countries. This biodiversity makes a significant contribution to Uganda’s national sustainable development and poverty eradication goals. Besides having a high socio-economic value, Uganda’s rich biodiversity also forms a key part of future sustainable economic development and growth. Many of the sectors targeted for future economic growth – such as fisheries, hydropower, tourism and agriculture – depend directly on biological resources and ecosystems. Biodiversity conservation also maintains a diverse pool of genetic resources available for future developments and applications, some of which may not be known now. These may contribute further to the development of tourism and leisure activities, and to the use of resources for a wide variety of agricultural, industrial, pharmaceutical, medicinal and other applications.