Across both Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth Protected Areas, illegal activity on water, including illegal fishing, cross-boundary poaching, and wildlife trafficking, has historically outpaced enforcement capacity. But with increased investment in equipment and personnel, and fully operational Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) marine units now in place, that balance is shifting.

Marine patrols now form a critical pillar of law enforcement across these key landscapes. Boats funded and maintained through UCF and partners are active daily on the Nile, Lake Albert, Lake Edward, and the Kazinga Channel, projecting ranger presence into areas that were once beyond reach and interrupting the unchecked movement of illicit actors.

By improving waterborne mobility, UCF is enabling faster interception of illegal activity, tighter surveillance of high-risk shorelines, and more seamless coordination between land and marine patrol teams.

But maintaining this capability demands more than just equipment. It requires ongoing investment in fuel, maintenance, and specialized training, all of which are part of UCF’s operational support to UWA. Marine rangers have undergone extensive training and certification, and UCF has constructed and equipped dedicated marine ranger stations at key locations to strengthen response capacity and ensure sustained coverage.

This integrated model is proving its value, faster response, stronger deterrence, and a visible, credible enforcement presence.

Global Conservation, Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa, International Elephant Foundation, Tusk Trust, SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Conservation Fund, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden