RUBANDA, UGANDA – Kabale University has formalized a partnership with the National Forestry Authority (NFA) through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Field Research Station within Echuya Forest Reserve.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The MoU was signed at Echuya Forest, Rwaburindi Village, Ikamiro Parish, Muko Sub-county in Rubanda District.
Echuya Forest is renowned for its high-altitude bamboo forest, crucial habitat for endangered bird species like the Grauer’s swamp warbler, a premier birding destination, protecting the Muchuya Swamp and offering cultural experiences with the indigenous Batwa people.
Under the M.O.U, witnessed by Rubanda District leaders led by Vice Chairperson Prossy Akampurira Kesafari, along with local residents, NFA will transfer 2.1 hectares of land within the forest to Kabale University to facilitate the establishment of the research station.
Kabale University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Joy Kwesiga, stated that the initiative is intended to provide an opportunity for both staff and students to conduct research in areas such as forest ecology, biodiversity conservation, tourism, and the socio-economic impacts of protected areas.
“The center we are establishing will not only serve those involved in forestry research but will also accommodate students from other disciplines such as environment and tourism,” said Prof. Kwesiga.
CUE IN…Prof. J. KWESIGA ON OTHER STUDIES
She further emphasized that the station will offer practical, hands-on training for students while supporting the identification, preservation, and conservation of rare, threatened, and endangered flora and fauna species.
“We have been given an opportunity to move from theory to practice, which presents a significant advantage for our learners,” Prof. Kwesiga added.
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Dr. Akatwijuka Rogers, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at Kabale University, highlighted that research at the station will focus on key areas including forest ecology, watershed management, tourism planning, the socio-economic impacts of protected areas, ecosystem changes, conservation of endangered species, and the study of medicinal plants with scientific and socio-economic importance.
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Stuart Maniraguha, Executive Director of NFA, challenged Kabale University to establish a sustainable and enduring field station that can attract researchers from across Africa. He cited Budongo Forest in northwestern Uganda, where a research station established in 1990 has made it one of the most studied forests on the continent as of 2026.
CUE IN… MANIRAGUHA ON FIELD STATION
Maniraguha explained that the collaboration between Kabale University and NFA began in 2024 when the university approached NFA seeking formal partnership and land for the research station and botanical garden.
Following consultations, a joint technical team from NFA and Kabale University conducted a field assessment, confirming the availability of suitable land. The proposal was subsequently approved by the NFA Board of Trustees, leading to the signing of the MoU.
He added that NFA, together with the Ministry of Water and Environment, will continue to provide guidance to Kabale University throughout the project’s implementation.
Key activities following the MoU include developing a site layout plan, obtaining approval for architectural designs, conducting an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, establishing the research station, conducting research and training sessions, and disseminating findings.
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