Over the past 10 years, IEF has supported the construction of 14 ranger stations, a veterinary facility, and Joint Operations Command Center (JOCC) as part of a focused effort to take back Murchison Falls National Park (MFNP) from poachers. The new ranger station in Buligi is a critical part of this recovery.

The Recovery of Murchison Falls Program has focused on providing the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) the foundation needed for park management including the construction of ranger posts to counter and respond quickly to poaching threats, problem animal control, park safety and the other issues that arise on a daily basis establishing the long-term protection and conservation of all wildlife in the Delta and along the River Nile. Other vital parts of the Recovery Program include supplying communications and operations systems, ranger training and equipment, and vehicles for all areas of their operations.

Illegal activity in the Buligi Sector of MFNP has been greatly improved through the establishment of the Semanya and Kabim Marine Ranger Stations, both supported by the International Elephant Foundation. However, there was a 30 kilometer stretch along the Delta and lower part of the River Nile unprotected by UWA and its rangers due to the lack of nearby ranger facilities. This unprotected area allowed access to the Delta resulting in large scale illegal fishing and poaching. Literally thousands of snares were being set monthly killing many animals and severely injuring and killing elephants, giraffe, and lions.

Building the ranger station has also been important for community development. The Pacer Community College apprentices and teams were employed. This supports youth north of the park where each individual represents a family that in some way interacts with the park, possibly from the poaching community or who have been negatively impacted by elephants crop raiding. Providing long term training and employment opportunities is dramatically and positively changing the community-park relationship.

Due to our many donors, the construction of the Buligi Marine Ranger Station is complete and it is now open and operational! We are pleased to be able to meet the dedication of wildlife rangers with support and respect embodied in the construction of modern ranger posts to increase their quality of life while on patrol.

IEF would like to extend our deep appreciation and thanks to all of you for making this incredible achievement possible. None of this is possible without your support!

The 18th International Elephant Conservation & Research Symposium is a can’t miss event connecting you with the latest in elephant research, conservation, and field work. For the second year in a row we are holding it virtually, making it accessible to anyone from anywhere!

When: August 15-19, 2022
Time: 5am-9am PST
Cost: $35

This year we are also offering an Official Certificate of Completion to demonstrate professional development for participating and attending this important event. For an additional fee you will receive a personalized certificate after the week’s talks are complete.