Rubirizi farmers welcome electric fence on boundary with Queen Elizabeth National Park

Farmers in Bunyaruguru County, Rubirizi district, have a renewed sense of hope as construction begins on a long-awaited electric fence, designed to protect their crops and livelihoods from the wildlife encroaching from the nearby Queen Elizabeth National Park.

For years, wild animals, ranging from large predators to crop-devouring herbivores, have roamed onto local farmlands, inflicting heavy losses and jeopardizing the income of countless households.

The project is particularly welcome among farmers who have suffered significant financial and personal losses due to wildlife invasions.

Sasio Magezi , a local farmer, shared his relief, noting the fence’s potential to secure his farmland and allow him to increase productivity without constant fear of animal invasions.

"What we have been waiting for is finally here, we have gone several years of suffering with wild animals"

Similarly, Saidi Kanyankole , another farmer, expressed his optimism, calling the initiative a step towards economic stability for the local farming community.

"We are happy that this electric is now here, i think its now time we also slept in our houses peacefully"

Despite the optimism surrounding the fence, concerns remain among the farmers, who argue that compensation for past damages remains an unresolved issue.

Annet Kiviri , a farmer from the region, voiced frustration over what she described as delayed or even neglected compensation payments.

"About two to three acres of my cassava plantation was eaten by wild animals, yet i have orphans who are entitled to rights like education and the like. But even after doing the necessary documentation, am yet to receive a coin as compensation from UWA", Kiviri said.

John Ntamuhira, Member of Parliament for Bunyaruguru County, lauded the electric fence as a “game-changer” for Rubirizi farmers, yet emphasized the need for fair and timely compensation for past losses.

"We are excited about this development, but that should not overshadow the need for accountability," Ntamuhira said, advocating for clearer processes to ensure farmers are rightfully compensated.

In response, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), which oversees wildlife management and conservation efforts, acknowledged the farmers' concerns but noted limitations on the scope of compensation.

Pontious Ezuma, the Chief Warden for the Queen Elizabeth Conservation Area, explained that only cases involving certain types of wildlife are eligible for compensation.

"We understand the farmers' grievances, but there are restrictions—we can’t compensate for every animal," Ezuma said, adding that farmers need to document and report incidents promptly to aid UWA’s verification and compensation processes.

Kikashemeza Bron, the Resident District Commissioner for Rubirizi, echoed UWA's sentiments, urging the community not to politicize the project.

"This electric fence is for everyone," Kikashemeza emphasized.

"It is a non-partisan initiative meant to benefit all residents of Rubirizi district."

With construction underway, Rubirizi’s farmers are cautiously optimistic. The electric fence is a significant step forward in addressing the longstanding human-wildlife conflict.

Yet, as farmers remain eager for relief, they continue to call for a more reliable compensation system to ensure their past and future losses are fairly addressed.