NEWS- Kanungu District, on December 2, 2023, welcomed the esteemed Nnabagareka Sylvia Naginda, Queen of Buganda Kingdom and Patron for Conservation through Public Health (CTPH). The occasion marked the 20th anniversary of Conservation Through Public Health (CTPH).
In Bwindi, the Queen inaugurated a Gorilla Health and Community Conservation Center within the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Enthralled by the forest’s nature and community cultures, she expressed confidence in the journey’s significance.
Commending community volunteers, the Queen proposed alternative means of survival for reformed poachers, emphasizing sustainable income sources over monetary rewards.
Kinkizi West MP, James Ruugi Kaberuka, praised Dr. Gladys Kalema Zikusoka for conceiving the innovative idea of a gorilla health center and laboratory. Despite concerns about inadequate services in Bwindi, especially roads, he acknowledged the efforts of area MPs and the forthcoming Muram road by UNRA as they wait for the tarmac road of the tourism roads especially Bwindi which has already been picked by PACOB ( Presidential Committee on budget) to make sure that it appears in the next financial year’s budget.
Dr. Gladys Kalema, CTPH’s founder, extended gratitude to partners over the 20-year journey. The organization, initially focused on gorilla and human health, expanded into Gorilla Conservation Coffee, supporting guardians and reformed poachers.
Dickson Katana, UWA’s Southern Sector Warden, attributed successful conservation to various organizations and emphasized the laboratory’s role in timely administrative decisions, wondering what Bwindi would be without CTPH basing on their efforts in conservation.
Brigade Col. Nahamya highlighted UPDF’s role in conservation, urging community cooperation due to Bwindi’s vulnerability, especially post-border closures.
Mr. Ezera Ndizeye, the District Community Development Officer representing CAO Kanungu Betega David, appreciated CTPH’s collaboration with local government, ensuring adherence to fulfilling the signed MOU, support to other partners, pledging continued cooperation.
Moses Bashaija of Buhoma Town Council commended CTPH for diligent services in gorilla health, job creation, and community well-being over the past 20 years.
