The Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Center (UWEC), popularly known as Entebbe Zoo, is a conservation education center for animals found in Uganda. UWEC is a popular tourist destination and educational resource, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about Uganda's wildlife and conservation efforts, according to the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre. This area opened its doors in 1952 as a reception center for wild animals that were found as casualties, either injured, orphaned, sick, or confiscated from the illegal trade.
In the 1960s it changed its role into a zoo and non indigenous species like bears and tigers were introduced and kept as an attraction.
In 1994, wildlife management was restructured and the zoo turned into Uganda Wildlife Education Center trust. The aim was to develop the zoo with an emphasis on conservation education.
The center includes free ranging and caged animals, birds, and several species of trees and shrubs. Animals in the zoo include the rock python, cheetah, leopard, lion, tortoise, giraffe, chimpanzee, baby elephant and rhino. Birds include ostriches, shoebill stork.
The Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) plays a vital role in Uganda's tourism sector by providing a unique educational and recreational experience for visitors, while also contributing to wildlife conservation efforts. UWEC serves as a hub for conservation education, rescuing and rehabilitating injured or orphaned wildlife, and breeding endangered species, all of which attract tourists and contribute to the country's tourism economy. More details about UWEC's contributions.
1. Enhancing the Tourism Experience:
Wildlife Viewing: UWEC provides a chance to see a variety of Ugandan wildlife, including primates, birds, and other animals, in a controlled environment, offering a unique and educational experience for tourists.
Recreation and Relaxation: The center offers a place for visitors to enjoy a day out, learn about wildlife, and relax amidst a natural setting.
Specialized Activities: UWEC offers opportunities like behind-the-scenes tours, chimpanzee encounters, and educational programs, enhancing the tourist experience and fostering a deeper connection with nature.
2.Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation:
Rescuing Animals: UWEC rescues and rehabilitates injured, sick, or confiscated animals, including birds, primates, and other wildlife
Veterinary Care :The center has a veterinary unit that provides medical care, diagnostic tests, and ongoing health monitoring for the rescued animals.
3. Recreation and Tourism:
UWEC serves as a recreational destination, offering visitors the opportunity to see and learn about Uganda's wildlife in a controlled environment.
They offer various tours and experiences, including behind-the-scenes tours, chimpanzee encounters, and day visits, which attract both local and international tourists.
UWEC's unique location and activities make it a popular attraction for tourists seeking to experience Uganda's wildlife and natural beauty.
4. Supporting Sustainable Tourism:
UWEC's conservation efforts contribute to the preservation of Uganda's wildlife and biodiversity, which is a key attraction for nature-based tourism.
By educating the public about conservation issues, UWEC helps to create a more sustainable tourism industry that benefits both visitors and the local communities.
UWEC (Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre) has a range of pricing for various activities, including day visits, behind-the-scenes experiences, and VIP experiences. Day visits for East African adults are UGX 20000, and for East African children, they pay UGX 10000. Behind-the-scenes experiences for East African adults cost UGX 50,000, and for children, UGX 30,000. For non-East Africans, day visit prices are $15 for adults and $10 for children. The VIP experience offers a tailored tour with fees ranging from $100 for tourist adults to UGX 35,000 for East African adults.