Reflecting on a Week of Growth and Collaboration at Uyumbu Wildlife Management Area

WASIMA team embarked on a transformative journey at the Uyumbu Wildlife Management Area. Set against the backdrop of nature's beauty, our staff retreat proved to be an invaluable experience, fostering collaboration, growth, and focus on our strategic goals.

As we gathered in this idyllic setting, our primary aim was to fortify the foundation of WASIMA, our shared vision, and our commitment to excellence. Throughout the retreat, we delved deep into strategic planning, reflecting on our past achievements and charting a course for the future.

A key highlight of our time together was the meticulous review of our strategic goals. We revisited our core objectives, ensuring alignment with our mission and values. This exercise not only reaffirmed our purpose but also sparked insightful discussions on how we can further elevate our impact within the communities we serve.

In addition to strategic goal setting, our retreat provided a platform for open dialogue and exchange of ideas. Every team member had the opportunity to voice their perspectives, contributing to a rich tapestry of collective wisdom. Through these discussions, we identified areas of improvement, unearthed hidden potentials, and forged stronger bonds as a cohesive unit.

As we look ahead to 2024, we are filled with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. Armed with ambitious goals and a clear roadmap, we are poised to overcome challenges and seize opportunities with unwavering resolve. Together, we aspire to push the boundaries of innovation, drive positive change, and leave a lasting legacy in the communities we serve.

Our time at Uyumbu Wildlife Management Area served as a reminder of the power of collaboration, the beauty of nature, and the limitless potential that lies within each of us. It was a week of growth, learning, and inspiration that will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of WASIMA for years to come.

Let us carry forward the spirit of unity and purpose that defined our retreat. Let us continue to strive for excellence, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and work together towards a brighter, more sustainable future.

In closing, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each member of the WASIMA team for their unwavering dedication, passion, and commitment. Together, we are unstoppable.

THE STATUS OF BIODIVERSITY IN THE UGALLA ECOSYSTEM

In the final quarter of 2023, our dedicated Lion Conservation Ambassadors made significant strides in safeguarding the rich biodiversity of the Ugalla Ecosystem. Engaging in patrol coordinated by ADAP, Ipole WMA, and Uyumbu WMA in collaboration with TAWA, during the patrols various wildlife species were identified. Among the identified species,  Olive baboons and Syncerus caffer were frequently encountered followed by Traurogus Oryx which counted 39,34 and 22 of the total counts (209) dominating the observation. Notably, endangered and vulnerable species like Panther Leo (Lion) and Lycaon pectus (Wild dog) were spotted, emphasizing the critical importance of our conservation efforts.

Unfortunately, during the patrols different signs of illegal human activities were observed and reported; poaching, particularly at Rungwa River Forest Reserve, Uyumbu Wildlife Management Area, and livestock encroachments in most PAs patrolled. Approximately 100 cattle were observed grazing within the Uyumbu WMA.