Difference between revisions of "Mgahinga Gorilla National Park"

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[[East Africa]] > [[Uganda]] > [[Mgahinga Gorilla National Park]]
 
[[East Africa]] > [[Uganda]] > [[Mgahinga Gorilla National Park]]
  
= Summary = <!-- An overview of the site, with one sentence for each section. May include a site map -->
+
'''[https://wiki-iucnapesportal-org.translate.goog/index.php/Mgahinga_Gorilla_National_Park?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=fr&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp Français]''' | '''[https://wiki-iucnapesportal-org.translate.goog/index.php/Mgahinga_Gorilla_National_Park?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=pt&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp Português]''' | '''[https://wiki-iucnapesportal-org.translate.goog/index.php/Mgahinga_Gorilla_National_Park?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=es&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp Español]''' | '''[https://wiki-iucnapesportal-org.translate.goog/index.php/Mgahinga_Gorilla_National_Park?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=id&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp Bahasa Indonesia]''' | '''[https://wiki-iucnapesportal-org.translate.goog/index.php/Mgahinga_Gorilla_National_Park?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=ms&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=wapp Melayu]'''
<div style="float: right">
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{{#display_map: height=200px | width=300px | scrollzoom=off | zoom=5 | layers= OpenStreetMap, OpenTopoMap
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__TOC__
| -1.370292, 29.632708~[[Mgahinga Gorilla National Park]]~Mountain Gorillas
+
= Summary =
}}
+
 
</div>
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<div style="float: right">{{#display_map: height=190px | width=300px | scrollzoom=off | zoom=5 | layers= OpenStreetMap, OpenTopoMap|-1.370292, 29.632708~[[Mgahinga Gorilla National Park]]~Gorilla beringei beringei}}</div>
 
* Mountain gorillas (''Gorilla beringei beringei'') are present in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
 
* Mountain gorillas (''Gorilla beringei beringei'') are present in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
 
* The population size in the park is unknown; however, the site is part of the larger Virunga Massif, where a population size of 669 (CI: 623–759) individuals was estimated for 2016.
 
* The population size in the park is unknown; however, the site is part of the larger Virunga Massif, where a population size of 669 (CI: 623–759) individuals was estimated for 2016.
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* Conservation activities have focused on eco-tourism, demarcation and reinforcement of the park’s boundaries, education activities and patrols.
 
* Conservation activities have focused on eco-tourism, demarcation and reinforcement of the park’s boundaries, education activities and patrols.
  
= Site characteristics = <!-- A paragraph summary of physical and geographic aspects of the site, and a table of key information -->
+
 
 +
= Site characteristics =
  
 
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, bordering Rwanda to the south and DRC to the west. The park derives its name from "Gahinga," a local term referring to the volcanic stones cleared from farmland at the base of the volcanoes. Originally declared a game sanctuary by the British administration in 1930, it was officially designated as a National Park in 1991 ([https://ugandawildlife.org/national-parks/mgahinga-gorilla-national-park/ Uganda Wildlife Authority]).
 
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, bordering Rwanda to the south and DRC to the west. The park derives its name from "Gahinga," a local term referring to the volcanic stones cleared from farmland at the base of the volcanoes. Originally declared a game sanctuary by the British administration in 1930, it was officially designated as a National Park in 1991 ([https://ugandawildlife.org/national-parks/mgahinga-gorilla-national-park/ Uganda Wildlife Authority]).
 
The park is home to a single habituated transboundary gorilla group. Situated at altitudes ranging from 2,227m to 4,127m, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park was established primarily to safeguard the mountain gorillas. It also serves as a critical habitat for the endangered golden monkey. In addition to its wildlife significance, the park holds immense cultural importance, particularly for the indigenous Batwa people ([https://ugandawildlife.org/national-parks/mgahinga-gorilla-national-park/ Uganda Wildlife Authority]).
 
 
Mgahinga's most prominent features are its three conical, extinct volcanoes, a part of the breathtaking Virunga Range. As part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area, encompassing neighboring parks in these countries, the slopes of these volcanoes host diverse ecosystems and a rich array of biodiversity. Over 76 mammal species, including elephants, giant forest hogs, bush pigs, bushbucks, buffalos, and leopards are found in the site. The park also boasts a bird checklist of over 180 species, including 14 endemic to the Albertine Rift, notably the Kivu ground thrush and turaco ([https://ugandawildlife.org/national-parks/mgahinga-gorilla-national-park/ Uganda Wildlife Authority]).
 
  
 
'''Table 1. Basic site information for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
 
'''Table 1. Basic site information for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="basic-information"
+
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="Site_characteristics-table"
| Area <!-- Please include units: km2/ha e.g 200ha -->
+
|Species
 +
|Gorilla beringei beringei
 +
|-
 +
|Area
 
|33.7 km²
 
|33.7 km²
 
|-
 
|-
 
|Coordinates
 
|Coordinates
| -1.370292, 29.632708
+
|Lat: -1.370292 , Lon:  29.632708
 +
|-
 +
|Type of site
 +
|Protected area (National Park)
 
|-
 
|-
|Designation
+
|Habitat types
|National Park
+
|Subtropical/tropical moist montane forest
 
|-
 
|-
|Habitat types <!-- List IUCN Habitat Classification 3.0 categories present (without number), see link below -->
+
|Type of governance
|Subtropical/tropical moist montane forest
+
|
 
|}
 
|}
[https://www.iucnredlist.org/resources/habitat-classification-scheme IUCN habitat categories] [[Site designations]]
 
  
= Ape status = <!--An overview of ape population status (population sizes, trends, etc.), followed by a table of specific surveys and results -->
+
[https://www.iucnredlist.org/resources/habitat-classification-scheme IUCN habitat categories] [[Site designations]]
 +
= Ape status =
  
 
The exact number of individuals inhabiting the site is unknown. The park is part of the larger Virunga Massif, where the total population was estimated to be 669 (CI: 623–759) individuals in 2016. It was also estimated that the growth of the entire Virunga Massif population was 3.0% (CI: 2.5–3.4%) or 3.1% (1.4–4.3%) per year between 2010 and 2016 (Granjon et al. 2020).
 
The exact number of individuals inhabiting the site is unknown. The park is part of the larger Virunga Massif, where the total population was estimated to be 669 (CI: 623–759) individuals in 2016. It was also estimated that the growth of the entire Virunga Massif population was 3.0% (CI: 2.5–3.4%) or 3.1% (1.4–4.3%) per year between 2010 and 2016 (Granjon et al. 2020).
  
'''Table 2. Ape population estimates in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
+
'''Table 2. Ape population estimates reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="population-estimate-table"
+
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="Ape_status-table"
! Species
+
!Species
! Year
+
!Year
! Abundance estimate (95% CI)
+
!Abundance estimate (95% CI)
! Density estimate [ind./ km²] (95% CI)
+
!Density estimate [ind./ km²] (95% CI)
! Encounter rate (nests/km)
+
!Encounter rate (nests/km)
! Area
+
!Area
! Method
+
!Method
! Source
+
!Source
! Comments
+
!Comments
! A.P.E.S. database ID
+
!A.P.E.S. database ID
 
|-
 
|-
 
|''Gorilla beringei beringei''
 
|''Gorilla beringei beringei''
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|
 
|
 
|Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
 
|Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
 +
|Unknown
 +
|
 +
|
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
|Gorilla beringei beringei
 +
|2016
 +
|669 (CI: 623–759)
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 +
|Virunga Massif
 +
|Unknown
 +
|Granjon et al. 2020
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|}
 
|}
  
= Threats =     <!-- a text overview of threats, followed by a table of key threats -->
+
= Threats =
  
 
Before the establishment of the protected area, several human activities were impacting wildlife inhabiting the site, particularly livestock grazing, farming and hunting. In the course of 1992, all settlers left the deforested zone of the national park and most of these activities stopped. 221 farms were moved and the settlers received compensation payments (Karlowski 2004).
 
Before the establishment of the protected area, several human activities were impacting wildlife inhabiting the site, particularly livestock grazing, farming and hunting. In the course of 1992, all settlers left the deforested zone of the national park and most of these activities stopped. 221 farms were moved and the settlers received compensation payments (Karlowski 2004).
  
'''Table 3. Threats to apes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
+
'''Table 3. Threats to apes reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="threats-table"
+
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="Threats-table"
!align="left"|Category <!-- PLEASE DO NOT CHANGE THE THREAT CATEGORIES -->
+
!Category
!Specific threats <!-- For specific threats, please use list of comma separated keywords from the IUCN list linked below -->
+
!Specific threats
!Threat level <!-- For threat level, please use keywords: low, medium, high, present, absent, unknown-->
+
!Threat level
!Quantified severity <!-- Enter any available quantification of the threat, e.g., the proportion of the area affected by the threat, hunting sign encounter rates-->
+
!Description
!Description <!-- Add descriptive information -->
+
!Year of threat
!Year of threat <!--  Enter specific year(s), “ongoing”, or “unknown”. If the threat is ongoing, please add the year of reference in parentheses -->
 
 
|-
 
|-
|1. Residential & commercial development
+
|1 Residential & commercial development
|1.1 Housing & urban areas
+
|1.1 Residential areas
|High
+
|High (more than 70% of population affected)
|
 
 
|Until 1992, people lived in what is now the protected area, where they farmed, logged and hunted (Karlowski 2004)
 
|Until 1992, people lived in what is now the protected area, where they farmed, logged and hunted (Karlowski 2004)
 
|1992
 
|1992
 
|-
 
|-
|2. Agriculture & aquaculture
+
|2 Agriculture & aquaculture
|2.1 Annual & perennial non-timber crops
+
|2.1.1 Shifting agriculture
|High
+
|High (more than 70% of population affected)
|
 
 
|In 1992, the wheat fields inside the national park were harvested for the last time. After a year, the gorillas had extended their habitat to include about 80% of that area (Karlowski 2004).
 
|In 1992, the wheat fields inside the national park were harvested for the last time. After a year, the gorillas had extended their habitat to include about 80% of that area (Karlowski 2004).
 
|1992
 
|1992
 
|-
 
|-
|
+
|2 Agriculture & aquaculture
 
|2.3 Livestock farming & ranching
 
|2.3 Livestock farming & ranching
|High
+
|High (more than 70% of population affected)
|
 
 
|Livestock grazing in the site; settlers moved out along with 221 farms in 1992 (Karlowski 2004).
 
|Livestock grazing in the site; settlers moved out along with 221 farms in 1992 (Karlowski 2004).
 
|1989-1992
 
|1989-1992
 
|-
 
|-
|3. Energy production & mining
+
|5 Biological resource use
|
 
|Unknown
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|4. Transportation & service corridors
 
|
 
|Unknown
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|5. Biological resource use
 
 
|5.3 Logging & wood harvesting
 
|5.3 Logging & wood harvesting
 
|Present (severity unknown)
 
|Present (severity unknown)
|
 
 
|Habitat loss due to firewood and bamboo harvesting (Twinomugisha & Chapman 2006).
 
|Habitat loss due to firewood and bamboo harvesting (Twinomugisha & Chapman 2006).
|2006-Ongoing
+
|2006-Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|5. Biological resource use
+
|5 Biological resource use
 
|5.1 Hunting & collecting terrestrial animals
 
|5.1 Hunting & collecting terrestrial animals
|High
+
|High (more than 70% of population affected)
|
 
 
|Before conservation activities started, there was poaching in the area and hundreds of wire snares on paths to catch antelopes (Karlowski 2004).
 
|Before conservation activities started, there was poaching in the area and hundreds of wire snares on paths to catch antelopes (Karlowski 2004).
 
|1990
 
|1990
 
|-
 
|-
|6. Human intrusion & disturbance
+
|5 Biological resource use
 +
|5.1 Hunting & collecting terrestrial animals
 +
|Low (up to 30% of population affected)
 +
|Unintentional effect on gorillas as snares are set targeting other animals in the forest (Hickeys et al. 2019).
 +
|Ongoing (2024)
 +
|-
 +
|5 Biological resource use
 +
|5.1.5 Persecution/human wildlife conflict
 +
|Low (up to 30% of population affected)
 +
|Buffalos, porcupines (main crop-raider in 2013), birds, bushbucks, duikers, elephants (Babaase et al., 2013; Sabuhoro et al., 2023)
 +
|Ongoing (2024)
 +
|-
 +
|6 Human intrusions & disturbance
 
|6.2 War, civil unrest & military exercises
 
|6.2 War, civil unrest & military exercises
 
|Present (severity unknown)
 
|Present (severity unknown)
|
 
 
|During the civil war parts of Mgahinga National Park sometimes served as retreat areas for paramilitary units. Parts of the afro-alpine vegetation on the peaks of Mt. Gahinga and Muhavura were destroyed during the civil war (Karlowski 2004).
 
|During the civil war parts of Mgahinga National Park sometimes served as retreat areas for paramilitary units. Parts of the afro-alpine vegetation on the peaks of Mt. Gahinga and Muhavura were destroyed during the civil war (Karlowski 2004).
 
|1990-1994
 
|1990-1994
 
|-
 
|-
|7. Natural system modifications
+
|7 Natural system modifications
|
+
|7.1 Fire & fire suppression
|Unknown
+
|Low (up to 30% of population affected)
|
+
|In 1989 and 2009, fire broke out along the slope of Mount Muhabura twice caused by human activities in the past and burned a large area from low to high elevation which include small portions of the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Hoek et al., 2023; McNeilage, 1995)
|
+
|1989-Ongoing (2024)
|
+
|-
 +
|8 Invasive & other problematic species, genes & diseases
 +
|8.1 Invasive non-native/alien species
 +
|Low (up to 30% of population affected)
 +
|Black wattle (Acacia mearnsii) and Eucalyptus trees were found to be the most widely distributed and Pinus patula the least distributed species in the park.
 +
|1991-Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|8. Invasive & other problematic species, genes, diseases
+
|8 Invasive & other problematic species, genes & diseases
|8.5 Viral/prion-induced diseases
+
|8.4 Pathogens
|Present (severity unknown)
+
|High (more than 70% of population affected)
|
+
|Risk of acquiring Covid-19 due to presence in the surrounding human population (Kungu et al. 2023). Evidence of human respiratory viruses, gastrointestinal parasites, and herpes viruses in the Virunga gorilla population exists. In addition, rabies, Ebola, and Marburg virus outbreaks occur in close proximity to the park (e.g. Mazet et al., 2020; Hassell et al., 2017; Smiley Evans et al., 2017; Petrzlkova et al., 2021, 2022).
|Risk of acquiring Covid-19 due to presence in the surrounding human population (Kungu et al. 2023).
+
|Ongoing (2024)
|2023-Ongoing
 
 
|-
 
|-
|9. Pollution
+
|9 Pollution
 
|
 
|
 
|Unknown
 
|Unknown
|
 
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
|10. Geological Events
+
|10 Geological events
|
+
|10.2 Earthquakes/tsunamis
|Absent
+
|Present (severity unknown)
|
 
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
| 11. Climate change & severe weather
+
|11 Climate change & severe weather
 
|
 
|
 
|Unknown
 
|Unknown
|
 
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
|12. Other options
+
|12 Other threat
 
|
 
|
 
|Absent
 
|Absent
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
|
 
|-
 
 
|}
 
|}
[https://www.iucnredlist.org/resources/threat-classification-scheme IUCN Threats list]
 
  
= Conservation activities =       <!-- A summary of the conservation activities, followed by a table of key activities -->
+
[https://www.iucnredlist.org/resources/threat-classification-scheme IUCN Threats list]
 +
= Conservation activities =
  
In December 1989, a conservation initiative focusing on gorillas and nature was initiated in the site. Biologist Klaus-Jürgen Sucker spearheaded the development of this project, receiving support from organizations such as the German Society for the Protection of Animals (Deutscher Tierschutzbund), the Berggorilla & Regenwald Direkthilfe, and subsequently, from the Center for International Migration (CIM) (Karlowski 2004).  
+
In December 1989, a conservation initiative focusing on gorillas and nature was initiated in the site. Biologist Klaus-Jürgen Sucker spearheaded the development of this project, receiving support from organizations such as the German Society for the Protection of Animals (Deutscher Tierschutzbund), the Berggorilla & Regenwald Direkthilfe, and subsequently, from the Center for International Migration (CIM) (Karlowski 2004).
  
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park was gazetted in 1991; the park’s infrastructure was established in 1993. This included relocating the guard post to the park's new boundary and demarcating the northern boundary with 180 cement cairns spread across 14 kilometers. While these cairns clearly defined the boundary, they left adjacent fields vulnerable to grazing by wildlife. To address this issue, a hedge of Erythrina abyssinica was planted along the park's boundary (Karlowski 2004).
+
'''Table 4. Conservation activities reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
 
+
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="Conservation_activities-table"
More recently, approximately 38,100 Erythrina trees were planted along the stone wall in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, spanning a distance of 12.7 kilometers from the Rwanda border to points along the border with DRC. This effort, led by IGCP’s Water4Virungas project in partnership with local communities and the Uganda Wildlife Authority, aimed to mitigate conflicts caused by problem animals such as buffalos. The project sought to enhance park-community relations while reducing crop raids (Nakayima 2021).
+
!Category
 
+
!Specific activity
Eco-tourism was inaugurated in August 1993, initially offering activities such as mountain trekking, cave exploration, and hiking along nature trails. The range of tourist activities expanded in 1994, with the introduction of visits to the Nyakagezi group, a gorilla population known for migrating between the Ugandan and Congolese sectors of the Virunga Conservation Area (Karlowski 2004).
+
!Description
 
+
!Implementing organization(s)
Even before official gorilla tourism commenced in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, a revenue-sharing system was established for communities residing near the park. Under this system, 20% of the income generated from park entrance fees was earmarked for community projects, such as the construction of schools or storage facilities. This approach has since become a fundamental aspect of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) policies for all reserves across the country (Karlowski 2004).
+
!Year of activity
 
 
'''Table 4. Conservation activities in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
 
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="conservation-actions-table"
 
!align="left"|Category <!-- PLEASE DO NOT CHANGE THE CATEGORIES -->
 
!Specific activity <!-- For specific threats, please use list from the list linked below, OR enter “Not reported” -->
 
!Description <!-- Add descriptive information -->
 
!Year of activity <!-- Add descriptive information -->
 
 
|-
 
|-
|1. Residential & commercial development
+
|1 Development impact mitigation
|Not reported
+
|1.3 Prohibit (livestock) farmers from entering protected areas
|
+
|Several farms were moved out of the park after its establishment, allowing for the regeneration of vegetation (Karlowski 2004).
 
|
 
|
 +
|1992-Ongoing (2024)
 +
|-
 +
|2 Counter-wildlife crime
 +
|2.3 Conduct regular anti-poaching patrols
 +
|Rangers conduct patrols (Karlowski 2004).
 +
|Uganda Wildlife Authority
 +
|1989-Ongoing (2024)
 +
|-
 +
|2 Counter-wildlife crime
 +
|2.6 Regularly de-activate/remove ground snares
 +
|Rangers conduct patrols and remove snares
 +
|Uganda Wildlife Authority
 +
|1989-Ongoing (2024)
 +
|-
 +
|2 Counter-wildlife crime
 +
|2.7 Provide better equipment (e.g., guns) to anti-poaching ranger patrols
 +
|Ranger patrol teams include one person with a gun and the team is equipped with SMART installed on Android devices
 +
|Uganda Wildlife Authority, International Gorilla Conservation Programme
 +
|2023-Ongoing (2024)
 +
|-
 +
|2 Counter-wildlife crime
 +
|2.8 Provide training to anti-poaching ranger patrols
 +
|Ranger teams receive training programs (e.g. usage of SMART)
 +
|Uganda Wildlife Authority, International Gorilla Conservation Programme
 +
|Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|2. Agriculture & aquaculture
+
|2 Counter-wildlife crime
|2.8. Prohibit (livestock) farmers from entering protected areas
+
|2.11 Implement monitoring surveillance strategies (e.g., SMART) or use monitoring data to improve effectiveness of patrols
|Several farms were moved out of the park after its establishment, allowing for the regeneration of vegetation (Karlowski 2004).
+
|Ranger patrol teams are equipped with SMART installed on Android devices
|1992-Ongoing
+
|Uganda Wildlife Authority, International Gorilla Conservation Programme
 +
|2023-Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|3. Energy production & mining
+
|2 Counter-wildlife crime
|Not reported
+
|2.13 Provide sustainable alternative livelihoods; establish fish- or domestic meat farms
|
+
|IGCP worked with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to develop a revenue sharing program and policy and established mechanisms for its application around Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Managed by committees including local community representatives and UWA officials, the scheme is used to fund projects for the benefit of communities living alongside the gorilla habitat. Training has been provided in ecotourism and tourist-based enterprise development in conjunction with the Uganda Community Tourism Association.
|
+
|Uganda Wildlife Authority, International Gorilla Conservation Programme
 +
|1995-Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|4. Transportation & service corridors
+
|3 Species health
|Not reported
+
|3.1 Wear face-masks to avoid transmission of viral and bacterial diseases to primates
|
+
|Facial masks were implemented when COVID-19 pandemic broke out and has been since maintained.
|
+
|Uganda Wildlife Authority, Gorilla Doctors
 +
|2020-Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|5. Biological resource use
+
|3 Species health
|5.6. Conduct regular anti-poaching patrols
+
|3.2 Keep safety distance to habituated apes
|Rangers conduct patrols (Karlowski 2004).
+
|Strict regulation for gorilla visits exists and include a limit of a 1-hour stay for tourists
|1989-Ongoing
+
|Uganda Wildlife Authority, Gorilla Doctors
 +
|Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|6. Human intrusion & disturbance
+
|3 Species health
|Not reported
+
|3.11 Implement continuous health monitoring (with permanent vet on site)
|
+
|The health of habituated gorillas are daily monitored by field teams and sick/injured gorillas are treated after being assessed.
|
+
|Uganda Wildlife Authority, Gorilla Doctors
 +
|Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|7. Natural system modifications
+
|3 Species health
|Not reported
+
|3.12 Detect & report dead apes and clinically determine their cause of death to avoid disease transmission
|
+
|Demographic changes such as deaths (or missing gorillas which may indicate death) are reported through daily monitoring of habituated gorilla groups. Encounters of dead gorillas outside groups are also reported. All dead gorillas are removed from the forest for necropsy if possible.
|
+
|Uganda Wildlife Authority, Gorilla Doctors
 +
|Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|8. Invasive & other problematic species, genes, diseases
+
|3 Species health
|Not reported
+
|3.13 Implement a health programme for local communities
|
+
|In the Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Area, IGCP is collaborating with One Health partners from both conservation and community health organizations with the aim of attaining optimal health for people, animals and the environment. IGCP also supports health monitoring around the parks. Health monitoring helps to minimize the risk of transmitting diseases to the gorilla groups.
|
+
|International Gorilla Conservation Programme
 +
|Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|9. Pollution
+
|4 Education & awareness
|Not reported
+
|4.1 Educate local communities about apes and sustainable use
|
+
|Education programs promoting biodiversity and gorilla conservation targeting school children and villages around the park have been implemented.
|
+
|International Gorilla Conservation Programme, World Wildlife Fund
 +
|Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|10. Education & Awareness
+
|4 Education & awareness
|10.5. Implement multimedia campaigns using theatre, film, print media, discussions
+
|4.5 Implement multimedia campaigns using theatre, film, print media, discussions
 
|Printing of a childrens' book about gorillas for schools around the park ([https://www.berggorilla.org/en/about-us/projects/#c1327 Berggorilla & Regenwald Direkthilfe]).
 
|Printing of a childrens' book about gorillas for schools around the park ([https://www.berggorilla.org/en/about-us/projects/#c1327 Berggorilla & Regenwald Direkthilfe]).
 +
|
 
|2005
 
|2005
 
|-
 
|-
|11. Habitat Protection
+
|5 Protection & restoration
|11.2. Legally protect primate habitat
+
|5.2 Legally protect ape habitat
 
|The site is classified as a National Park.
 
|The site is classified as a National Park.
|1991-Ongoing
+
|Uganda Wildlife Authority
 +
|1991-Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|
+
|5 Protection & restoration
|11.6. Demarcate and enforce boundaries of protected areas
+
|5.5 Demarcate and enforce boundaries of protected areas
 
|Planting of Erythrina trees to enforce boundaries and reduce crop raiding by wildlife (Nakayima 2021, Karlowski 2004).
 
|Planting of Erythrina trees to enforce boundaries and reduce crop raiding by wildlife (Nakayima 2021, Karlowski 2004).
 +
|Uganda Wildlife Authority, International Gorilla Conservation Programme
 
|1993, 2021
 
|1993, 2021
 
|-
 
|-
|12. Species Management
+
|5 Protection & restoration
|12.1. Habituate primates to human presence to reduce stress from tourists/researchers etc.
+
|5.6 Habitat restoration (e.g., tree planting)
 +
|Before gazetting in 1991, large parts of the park had been agricultural land for well over 50 years. Since 1992, the old cropland has been left to naturally regenerate (Lejju et al., 2001).
 +
|Uganda Wildlife Authority
 +
|1992
 +
|-
 +
|6 Species management
 +
|6.1 Habituate primates to human presence to reduce stress from tourists/researchers
 
|Tourists can visit the Nyakagezi group (Karlowski 2004).
 
|Tourists can visit the Nyakagezi group (Karlowski 2004).
|1994-Ongoing
+
|Uganda Wildlife Authority
 +
|1994-Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|13. Livelihood; Economic & Other Incentives
+
|6 Species management
|13.1. Provide monetary benefits to local communities for sustainably managing their forest and its wildlife (e.g. REDD, employment)
+
|6.2 Guard habituated ape groups to ensure their safety/well-being
 +
|Gorillas that were habituated for tourism are safe-guarded for several hours by rangers.
 +
|Uganda Wildlife Authority
 +
|1994-Ongoing (2024)
 +
|-
 +
|7 Economic & other incentives
 +
|7.1 Provide monetary benefits to local communities for sustainably managing their forest and its wildlife (e.g., REDD, alternative income, employment)
 
|Recently, 40 community members participated in both the Erythrina planting and the renovation of the stone wall delineating part of the park’s border. Community members were paid for their participation (Nakayima 2021).
 
|Recently, 40 community members participated in both the Erythrina planting and the renovation of the stone wall delineating part of the park’s border. Community members were paid for their participation (Nakayima 2021).
 +
|
 
|2021
 
|2021
 
|-
 
|-
 +
|7 Economic & other incentives
 +
|7.2 Provide non-monetary benefits to local communities for sustainably managing their forest and its wildlife (e.g., better education, infrastructure development)
 +
|UWA shares 20% of its annual park revenue with the people surrounding our national parks and wildlife reserves; revenue sharing was implemented in 1995 (Archabald & Naughton-Treves 2001).
 +
|UWA
 +
|2015-Ongoing (2024)
 +
|-
 +
|8 Permanent presence
 +
|8.2 Run tourist projects and ensure permanent human presence at site
 +
|Eco-tourism was introduced in 1993 (Karlowski 2004).
 
|
 
|
|13.4. Run tourist projects and ensure permanent human presence at site
+
|1993-Ongoing (2024)
|Eco-tourism was introduced in 1993 (Karlowski 2004).
+
|}
|1993-Ongoing
+
 
 +
[[Conservation activities list (Junker et al. 2017)]]
 +
= Challenges =
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
'''Table 5. Challenges reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
 +
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="Challenges-table"
 +
!Challenges
 +
!Specific challenges
 +
!Source
 +
!Year(s)
 +
|-
 +
|1 Site management
 +
|1.4 Conflict on land tenure
 +
|Wild & Muteb, 1996
 +
|1991
 +
|-
 +
|4 Institutional support
 +
|4.4 Lack of transboundary cooperation
 +
|Unesco, 2023
 +
|2011-Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
 +
|6 Safety and stability
 +
|6.1 Political/economic instability
 +
|Unesco, 2023
 +
|2011-Ongoing (2024)
 
|}
 
|}
[[Conservation activities list (Junker et al. 2017)]]
 
  
= Challenges = <!-- Overview of challenges in ape conservation -->
+
= Enablers =
  
'''Table 5. Challenges reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
+
 
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="challenges-table"
+
 
!align="left"|Challenge <!-- Do not change categories -->
+
'''Table 6. Enablers reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
!Source <!-- Source for challenge mentioned -->
+
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="enabler-table"
 +
!Enablers
 +
!Specific enablers
 +
!Source
 +
!Year(s)
 +
|-
 +
|1 Site management
 +
|1.3 Adaptive management practices
 +
|Karlowski 2004
 +
|1989-Ongoing (2024)
 +
|-
 +
|2 Resources and capacity
 +
|2.3 Continuous/long-term funding
 +
|Robbins et al., 2011
 +
|1992-Ongoing (2024)
 
|-
 
|-
|Not reported
+
|2 Resources and capacity
 +
|2.4 Adequate data to inform and evaluate conservation actions
 +
|
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
 +
|2 Resources and capacity
 +
|2.6 External partnerships that add expertise or resources
 +
|Robbins et al., 2011
 +
|
 
|}
 
|}
  
= Research activities = <!-- Overview of research activities -->
+
= Research activities =
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
= Documented behaviours =
 +
 
  
===Documented behaviours===  <!-- List of any behaviours observed at the site, including citations -->
 
  
'''Table 6. Ape behaviors reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
+
'''Table 7. Behaviours documented for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park'''
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="behaviors-table"
+
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" class="behaviours-table"
!align="left"|Behavior
+
!Behavior
 
!Source
 
!Source
 
|-
 
|-
 
|Not reported
 
|Not reported
 
|
 
|
|-
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
=External links=
+
= Exposure to climate change impacts =
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
= External links =
 +
 
 
[https://www.mgahingagorillanationalpark.com/ Mgahinga Gorilla National Park]
 
[https://www.mgahingagorillanationalpark.com/ Mgahinga Gorilla National Park]
 +
 +
= Relevant datasets =
 +
 +
  
 
= References =
 
= References =
Granjon, A. C., Robbins, M. M., Arinaitwe, J., Cranfield, M. R., Eckardt, W., Mburanumwe, I., ... & Hickey, J. R. (2020). Estimating abundance and growth rates in a wild mountain gorilla population. Animal Conservation, 23(4), 455-465. <br>
 
Karlowski, U. (2004). Ten Years of Gorilla Tourism in Mgahinga. Gorilla Journal, 28, 6-8.<br>
 
Kungu, J. M., Neumbe, J., Kiganira, D. B., Tino, P., Namayanja, J., Kassuja, R., ... & Nizeyi, J. B. (2023). Prevalence and predisposing factors of covid-19 in Bwindi-Mgahinga mountain gorilla conservation area landscape, Uganda.<br>
 
Nakayima, L. (2021). Strengthened Human– Wildlife Conflict Measures Restore Hope in the Virungas. Gorilla Journal, 62, 11-12.<br>
 
Twinomugisha, D. & Chapman, C.A. (2006) Notes and records. African Journal of Ecology, 2, 220–224. <br>
 
  
<br>
+
Granjon, A. C., Robbins, M. M., Arinaitwe, J., Cranfield, M. R., Eckardt, W., Mburanumwe, I., ... & Hickey, J. R. (2020). Estimating abundance and growth rates in a wild mountain gorilla population. Animal Conservation, 23(4), 455-465.
'''Page completed by: '''A.P.E.S. Wiki team''' Date:''' 28/02/2024 <!-- If you don't want to add your name, you can add "A.P.E.S. Wiki team" -->
+
 
 +
Karlowski, U. (2004). Ten Years of Gorilla Tourism in Mgahinga. Gorilla Journal, 28, 6-8.
 +
 
 +
Kungu, J. M., Neumbe, J., Kiganira, D. B., Tino, P., Namayanja, J., Kassuja, R., ... & Nizeyi, J. B. (2023). Prevalence and predisposing factors of covid-19 in Bwindi-Mgahinga mountain gorilla conservation area landscape, Uganda.
 +
 
 +
Nakayima, L. (2021). Strengthened Human– Wildlife Conflict Measures Restore Hope in the Virungas. Gorilla Journal, 62, 11-12.
 +
 
 +
Twinomugisha, D. & Chapman, C.A. (2006) Notes and records. African Journal of Ecology, 2, 220–224.
 +
 
 +
Archabald, K. & Naughton, L. (2001). Tourism revenue-sharing around national parks in Western Uganda: early efforts to identify and reward local communities. Environmental Conservation, 28(2), 135-149.
 +
 
 +
Babaase, D., Akampulira, E. & Bitariho, E. (2013). Human-wildlife conflict management: Experiences and lessons learned from the Greater Virunga Landscape. Report, February 2013.
 +
 
 +
Hickey, J. R., Granjon, A. C., Vigilant, L., Eckardt, W., Gilardi, K. V., Cranfield, M., Musana, A., Masozera, A. B., Babaasa, D., Ruzigandekwe, F., & Robbins, M. M. (2019). Virunga 2015-2016 surveys - monitoring mountain gorillas, other select mammals, and illegal activities.
 +
 
 +
Lejju, J.B., Oryem-Origa, H., & Kasenene, J. M. (2001). Regeneration of indigenous trees in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda. Afr. J. Ecol., 39, 65-73.
 +
 
 +
Sabuhoro, E., Ayorekire, J., & Munanura, I. E. (2023). The Quality of Life and Perceived Human-Wildlife Conflicts among Forest Communities around the Mountain Gorilla’s Virunga Landscape in Africa. Sustainability (Switzerland), 15(3). https://doi.org/10.3390/su15032248
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
'''Page created by: '''A.P.E.S. Wiki team''' Date:''' NA

Latest revision as of 10:09, 24 January 2025

East Africa > Uganda > Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

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Summary

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  • Mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei) are present in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
  • The population size in the park is unknown; however, the site is part of the larger Virunga Massif, where a population size of 669 (CI: 623–759) individuals was estimated for 2016.
  • The population trend is increasing.
  • The site has a total size of 33.7 km².
  • Key threats to gorillas are hunting and habitat encroachment due to farming activities.
  • Conservation activities have focused on eco-tourism, demarcation and reinforcement of the park’s boundaries, education activities and patrols.


Site characteristics

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in the southwestern corner of Uganda, bordering Rwanda to the south and DRC to the west. The park derives its name from "Gahinga," a local term referring to the volcanic stones cleared from farmland at the base of the volcanoes. Originally declared a game sanctuary by the British administration in 1930, it was officially designated as a National Park in 1991 (Uganda Wildlife Authority).

Table 1. Basic site information for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Species Gorilla beringei beringei
Area 33.7 km²
Coordinates Lat: -1.370292 , Lon: 29.632708
Type of site Protected area (National Park)
Habitat types Subtropical/tropical moist montane forest
Type of governance

IUCN habitat categories Site designations

Ape status

The exact number of individuals inhabiting the site is unknown. The park is part of the larger Virunga Massif, where the total population was estimated to be 669 (CI: 623–759) individuals in 2016. It was also estimated that the growth of the entire Virunga Massif population was 3.0% (CI: 2.5–3.4%) or 3.1% (1.4–4.3%) per year between 2010 and 2016 (Granjon et al. 2020).

Table 2. Ape population estimates reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Species Year Abundance estimate (95% CI) Density estimate [ind./ km²] (95% CI) Encounter rate (nests/km) Area Method Source Comments A.P.E.S. database ID
Gorilla beringei beringei Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Unknown
Gorilla beringei beringei 2016 669 (CI: 623–759) Virunga Massif Unknown Granjon et al. 2020

Threats

Before the establishment of the protected area, several human activities were impacting wildlife inhabiting the site, particularly livestock grazing, farming and hunting. In the course of 1992, all settlers left the deforested zone of the national park and most of these activities stopped. 221 farms were moved and the settlers received compensation payments (Karlowski 2004).

Table 3. Threats to apes reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Category Specific threats Threat level Description Year of threat
1 Residential & commercial development 1.1 Residential areas High (more than 70% of population affected) Until 1992, people lived in what is now the protected area, where they farmed, logged and hunted (Karlowski 2004) 1992
2 Agriculture & aquaculture 2.1.1 Shifting agriculture High (more than 70% of population affected) In 1992, the wheat fields inside the national park were harvested for the last time. After a year, the gorillas had extended their habitat to include about 80% of that area (Karlowski 2004). 1992
2 Agriculture & aquaculture 2.3 Livestock farming & ranching High (more than 70% of population affected) Livestock grazing in the site; settlers moved out along with 221 farms in 1992 (Karlowski 2004). 1989-1992
5 Biological resource use 5.3 Logging & wood harvesting Present (severity unknown) Habitat loss due to firewood and bamboo harvesting (Twinomugisha & Chapman 2006). 2006-Ongoing (2024)
5 Biological resource use 5.1 Hunting & collecting terrestrial animals High (more than 70% of population affected) Before conservation activities started, there was poaching in the area and hundreds of wire snares on paths to catch antelopes (Karlowski 2004). 1990
5 Biological resource use 5.1 Hunting & collecting terrestrial animals Low (up to 30% of population affected) Unintentional effect on gorillas as snares are set targeting other animals in the forest (Hickeys et al. 2019). Ongoing (2024)
5 Biological resource use 5.1.5 Persecution/human wildlife conflict Low (up to 30% of population affected) Buffalos, porcupines (main crop-raider in 2013), birds, bushbucks, duikers, elephants (Babaase et al., 2013; Sabuhoro et al., 2023) Ongoing (2024)
6 Human intrusions & disturbance 6.2 War, civil unrest & military exercises Present (severity unknown) During the civil war parts of Mgahinga National Park sometimes served as retreat areas for paramilitary units. Parts of the afro-alpine vegetation on the peaks of Mt. Gahinga and Muhavura were destroyed during the civil war (Karlowski 2004). 1990-1994
7 Natural system modifications 7.1 Fire & fire suppression Low (up to 30% of population affected) In 1989 and 2009, fire broke out along the slope of Mount Muhabura twice caused by human activities in the past and burned a large area from low to high elevation which include small portions of the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Hoek et al., 2023; McNeilage, 1995) 1989-Ongoing (2024)
8 Invasive & other problematic species, genes & diseases 8.1 Invasive non-native/alien species Low (up to 30% of population affected) Black wattle (Acacia mearnsii) and Eucalyptus trees were found to be the most widely distributed and Pinus patula the least distributed species in the park. 1991-Ongoing (2024)
8 Invasive & other problematic species, genes & diseases 8.4 Pathogens High (more than 70% of population affected) Risk of acquiring Covid-19 due to presence in the surrounding human population (Kungu et al. 2023). Evidence of human respiratory viruses, gastrointestinal parasites, and herpes viruses in the Virunga gorilla population exists. In addition, rabies, Ebola, and Marburg virus outbreaks occur in close proximity to the park (e.g. Mazet et al., 2020; Hassell et al., 2017; Smiley Evans et al., 2017; Petrzlkova et al., 2021, 2022). Ongoing (2024)
9 Pollution Unknown
10 Geological events 10.2 Earthquakes/tsunamis Present (severity unknown)
11 Climate change & severe weather Unknown
12 Other threat Absent

IUCN Threats list

Conservation activities

In December 1989, a conservation initiative focusing on gorillas and nature was initiated in the site. Biologist Klaus-Jürgen Sucker spearheaded the development of this project, receiving support from organizations such as the German Society for the Protection of Animals (Deutscher Tierschutzbund), the Berggorilla & Regenwald Direkthilfe, and subsequently, from the Center for International Migration (CIM) (Karlowski 2004).

Table 4. Conservation activities reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Category Specific activity Description Implementing organization(s) Year of activity
1 Development impact mitigation 1.3 Prohibit (livestock) farmers from entering protected areas Several farms were moved out of the park after its establishment, allowing for the regeneration of vegetation (Karlowski 2004). 1992-Ongoing (2024)
2 Counter-wildlife crime 2.3 Conduct regular anti-poaching patrols Rangers conduct patrols (Karlowski 2004). Uganda Wildlife Authority 1989-Ongoing (2024)
2 Counter-wildlife crime 2.6 Regularly de-activate/remove ground snares Rangers conduct patrols and remove snares Uganda Wildlife Authority 1989-Ongoing (2024)
2 Counter-wildlife crime 2.7 Provide better equipment (e.g., guns) to anti-poaching ranger patrols Ranger patrol teams include one person with a gun and the team is equipped with SMART installed on Android devices Uganda Wildlife Authority, International Gorilla Conservation Programme 2023-Ongoing (2024)
2 Counter-wildlife crime 2.8 Provide training to anti-poaching ranger patrols Ranger teams receive training programs (e.g. usage of SMART) Uganda Wildlife Authority, International Gorilla Conservation Programme Ongoing (2024)
2 Counter-wildlife crime 2.11 Implement monitoring surveillance strategies (e.g., SMART) or use monitoring data to improve effectiveness of patrols Ranger patrol teams are equipped with SMART installed on Android devices Uganda Wildlife Authority, International Gorilla Conservation Programme 2023-Ongoing (2024)
2 Counter-wildlife crime 2.13 Provide sustainable alternative livelihoods; establish fish- or domestic meat farms IGCP worked with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to develop a revenue sharing program and policy and established mechanisms for its application around Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Managed by committees including local community representatives and UWA officials, the scheme is used to fund projects for the benefit of communities living alongside the gorilla habitat. Training has been provided in ecotourism and tourist-based enterprise development in conjunction with the Uganda Community Tourism Association. Uganda Wildlife Authority, International Gorilla Conservation Programme 1995-Ongoing (2024)
3 Species health 3.1 Wear face-masks to avoid transmission of viral and bacterial diseases to primates Facial masks were implemented when COVID-19 pandemic broke out and has been since maintained. Uganda Wildlife Authority, Gorilla Doctors 2020-Ongoing (2024)
3 Species health 3.2 Keep safety distance to habituated apes Strict regulation for gorilla visits exists and include a limit of a 1-hour stay for tourists Uganda Wildlife Authority, Gorilla Doctors Ongoing (2024)
3 Species health 3.11 Implement continuous health monitoring (with permanent vet on site) The health of habituated gorillas are daily monitored by field teams and sick/injured gorillas are treated after being assessed. Uganda Wildlife Authority, Gorilla Doctors Ongoing (2024)
3 Species health 3.12 Detect & report dead apes and clinically determine their cause of death to avoid disease transmission Demographic changes such as deaths (or missing gorillas which may indicate death) are reported through daily monitoring of habituated gorilla groups. Encounters of dead gorillas outside groups are also reported. All dead gorillas are removed from the forest for necropsy if possible. Uganda Wildlife Authority, Gorilla Doctors Ongoing (2024)
3 Species health 3.13 Implement a health programme for local communities In the Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Area, IGCP is collaborating with One Health partners from both conservation and community health organizations with the aim of attaining optimal health for people, animals and the environment. IGCP also supports health monitoring around the parks. Health monitoring helps to minimize the risk of transmitting diseases to the gorilla groups. International Gorilla Conservation Programme Ongoing (2024)
4 Education & awareness 4.1 Educate local communities about apes and sustainable use Education programs promoting biodiversity and gorilla conservation targeting school children and villages around the park have been implemented. International Gorilla Conservation Programme, World Wildlife Fund Ongoing (2024)
4 Education & awareness 4.5 Implement multimedia campaigns using theatre, film, print media, discussions Printing of a childrens' book about gorillas for schools around the park (Berggorilla & Regenwald Direkthilfe). 2005
5 Protection & restoration 5.2 Legally protect ape habitat The site is classified as a National Park. Uganda Wildlife Authority 1991-Ongoing (2024)
5 Protection & restoration 5.5 Demarcate and enforce boundaries of protected areas Planting of Erythrina trees to enforce boundaries and reduce crop raiding by wildlife (Nakayima 2021, Karlowski 2004). Uganda Wildlife Authority, International Gorilla Conservation Programme 1993, 2021
5 Protection & restoration 5.6 Habitat restoration (e.g., tree planting) Before gazetting in 1991, large parts of the park had been agricultural land for well over 50 years. Since 1992, the old cropland has been left to naturally regenerate (Lejju et al., 2001). Uganda Wildlife Authority 1992
6 Species management 6.1 Habituate primates to human presence to reduce stress from tourists/researchers Tourists can visit the Nyakagezi group (Karlowski 2004). Uganda Wildlife Authority 1994-Ongoing (2024)
6 Species management 6.2 Guard habituated ape groups to ensure their safety/well-being Gorillas that were habituated for tourism are safe-guarded for several hours by rangers. Uganda Wildlife Authority 1994-Ongoing (2024)
7 Economic & other incentives 7.1 Provide monetary benefits to local communities for sustainably managing their forest and its wildlife (e.g., REDD, alternative income, employment) Recently, 40 community members participated in both the Erythrina planting and the renovation of the stone wall delineating part of the park’s border. Community members were paid for their participation (Nakayima 2021). 2021
7 Economic & other incentives 7.2 Provide non-monetary benefits to local communities for sustainably managing their forest and its wildlife (e.g., better education, infrastructure development) UWA shares 20% of its annual park revenue with the people surrounding our national parks and wildlife reserves; revenue sharing was implemented in 1995 (Archabald & Naughton-Treves 2001). UWA 2015-Ongoing (2024)
8 Permanent presence 8.2 Run tourist projects and ensure permanent human presence at site Eco-tourism was introduced in 1993 (Karlowski 2004). 1993-Ongoing (2024)

Conservation activities list (Junker et al. 2017)

Challenges

Table 5. Challenges reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Challenges Specific challenges Source Year(s)
1 Site management 1.4 Conflict on land tenure Wild & Muteb, 1996 1991
4 Institutional support 4.4 Lack of transboundary cooperation Unesco, 2023 2011-Ongoing (2024)
6 Safety and stability 6.1 Political/economic instability Unesco, 2023 2011-Ongoing (2024)

Enablers

Table 6. Enablers reported for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Enablers Specific enablers Source Year(s)
1 Site management 1.3 Adaptive management practices Karlowski 2004 1989-Ongoing (2024)
2 Resources and capacity 2.3 Continuous/long-term funding Robbins et al., 2011 1992-Ongoing (2024)
2 Resources and capacity 2.4 Adequate data to inform and evaluate conservation actions
2 Resources and capacity 2.6 External partnerships that add expertise or resources Robbins et al., 2011

Research activities

Documented behaviours

Table 7. Behaviours documented for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Behavior Source
Not reported

Exposure to climate change impacts

External links

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Relevant datasets

References

Granjon, A. C., Robbins, M. M., Arinaitwe, J., Cranfield, M. R., Eckardt, W., Mburanumwe, I., ... & Hickey, J. R. (2020). Estimating abundance and growth rates in a wild mountain gorilla population. Animal Conservation, 23(4), 455-465.

Karlowski, U. (2004). Ten Years of Gorilla Tourism in Mgahinga. Gorilla Journal, 28, 6-8.

Kungu, J. M., Neumbe, J., Kiganira, D. B., Tino, P., Namayanja, J., Kassuja, R., ... & Nizeyi, J. B. (2023). Prevalence and predisposing factors of covid-19 in Bwindi-Mgahinga mountain gorilla conservation area landscape, Uganda.

Nakayima, L. (2021). Strengthened Human– Wildlife Conflict Measures Restore Hope in the Virungas. Gorilla Journal, 62, 11-12.

Twinomugisha, D. & Chapman, C.A. (2006) Notes and records. African Journal of Ecology, 2, 220–224.

Archabald, K. & Naughton, L. (2001). Tourism revenue-sharing around national parks in Western Uganda: early efforts to identify and reward local communities. Environmental Conservation, 28(2), 135-149.

Babaase, D., Akampulira, E. & Bitariho, E. (2013). Human-wildlife conflict management: Experiences and lessons learned from the Greater Virunga Landscape. Report, February 2013.

Hickey, J. R., Granjon, A. C., Vigilant, L., Eckardt, W., Gilardi, K. V., Cranfield, M., Musana, A., Masozera, A. B., Babaasa, D., Ruzigandekwe, F., & Robbins, M. M. (2019). Virunga 2015-2016 surveys - monitoring mountain gorillas, other select mammals, and illegal activities.

Lejju, J.B., Oryem-Origa, H., & Kasenene, J. M. (2001). Regeneration of indigenous trees in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda. Afr. J. Ecol., 39, 65-73.

Sabuhoro, E., Ayorekire, J., & Munanura, I. E. (2023). The Quality of Life and Perceived Human-Wildlife Conflicts among Forest Communities around the Mountain Gorilla’s Virunga Landscape in Africa. Sustainability (Switzerland), 15(3). https://doi.org/10.3390/su15032248


Page created by: A.P.E.S. Wiki team Date: NA