Minister Nakawuki Calls on Ugandans to Discover Local Wildlife Experiences at CTC Conservation Centre

What the report says

Nile Post reported that State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities Hon. Nakawuki urged Ugandans to seek out domestic tourism experiences beyond the country’s national parks and established game reserves. The appeal came during her familiarisation visit to the Conservation Through Community (CTC) Conservation Centre in Lukalu, Butambala District, near Mpigi and southwest of Kampala along the Kampala-Masaka Road.

According to the report, CTC offers guided conservation tours and hosts a range of wildlife, including lions, hyenas, giraffes, lemurs, snakes, crocodiles, tigers, zebras and a zonkey, a zebra-donkey hybrid. During the visit, Nakawuki reportedly fed some animals and had a close encounter with a lion, describing the experience as memorable and encouraging citizens to explore similar attractions within Uganda.

The minister praised CTC proprietor Thomas Price for what she described as a conservation model that brings wildlife closer to communities. She said private, community-linked initiatives can complement government efforts by expanding Uganda’s tourism products and encouraging public appreciation of wildlife. Nile Post reported that the centre combines visitor experiences with education and guided tours, with a particular focus on children and young people.

Price said CTC plans to expand by acquiring an additional 52 acres, with a longer-term ambition to create an elephant sanctuary. He also defended supervised wildlife encounters, arguing that controlled interactions can build conservation awareness. The report frames CTC as part of wider efforts to promote domestic tourism and make wildlife experiences more accessible to people who may not travel to Uganda’s major safari destinations.