In a historic appointment supported by Focused Conservation, Margaret Kasumba is the first woman to head the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU), marking a significant step forward in Uganda’s conservation and law enforcement efforts. As the Manager of Law Enforcement and Security for the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Margaret now leads a highly specialized team dedicated to tackling the illegal wildlife activities that endanger Uganda’s precious wildlife. Her appointment is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to her commitment to fight against wildlife crime in Uganda.
A Foundation Built in Uganda
Born in Kabarole District in Western Uganda, Margaret’s upbringing in the scenic village of Buheesi, nestled in Bunyangabu District, was where her passion for wildlife first took root. As a young girl, she marveled at the various wildlife that occasionally roamed her family’s farm and, with a curious heart, questioned her father about the possibility of raising them alongside the family’s livestock. While he assured her these animals were wild and had their own caretakers, her young mind was ignited with a dream—one that would come full circle years later.
Paving the Way in Law and Wildlife Protection
Margaret pursued her love for law and justice by earning her Bachelor of Laws degree from Makerere University and later obtaining a Master’s in Law from Cavendish University. In 2004, she joined the UWA as a Warden in Law Enforcement, responsible for gathering intelligence and investigating wildlife crimes. Shortly after joining, she completed rigorous military training, equipping her with the skills needed to navigate the challenging world of wildlife crime enforcement.
Margaret’s outstanding work in wildlife law enforcement earned her a transfer to the Legal Unit as Warden Legal, where she focused on prosecuting wildlife crimes. After six years in law enforcement and three more in the Legal Unit, her expertise and commitment led to her promotion to Senior Warden Legal. In 2016, she returned to the Law Enforcement Unit as the Manager of Law Enforcement and Security, making her the first woman to lead the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s Law Enforcement Unit—a role that has made her a powerful symbol of progress for women in conservation.
Margaret’s work as the Manager is as critical as it is multifaceted where she oversees UWA’s entire ranger force, leading nationwide operations to combat wildlife crime and directing the specialized Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit. She is responsible for developing and implementing strategic plans, guidelines, and regulations to strengthen wildlife law enforcement efforts. She also oversees the creation of specialized training programs for law enforcement staff, develops standard operating procedures, and coordinates security matters with chief wardens across National Parks. A key part of her work involves fostering collaborative partnerships with stakeholders and organizations like Focused Conservation in wildlife crime management.
Championing Conservation with the Wildlife Crime Unit
Margaret’s role took a pivotal turn in 2021 when she was appointed to lead the Uganda Wildlife Crime Unit (UWCU), a role made possible through the collaborative efforts of Focused Conservation and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). With the strong backing and mentorship from Focused Conservation, the UWCU has become a critical force in the country’s fight against wildlife crime. Margaret, alongside her deputy, Amoss Aijuka, has led the UWCU team to notable successes in intelligence gathering, operations, investigations, and prosecutions of wildlife criminals. Under her leadership, the UWCU has made significant strides in protecting Uganda’s most vulnerable species, including elephants and the endangered pangolin, Margaret’s favorite animal.
As a member of Uganda’s National Anti-Wildlife Crime Coordination Task Force, Margaret extends her leadership beyond the UWCU, collaborating with conservation organizations, law enforcement agencies, and local communities to safeguard Uganda’s wildlife on a national level.
A Vision for Uganda’s Wildlife Future
Margaret’s journey from a curious village girl dreaming of caring for wildlife to a pioneering leader safeguarding Uganda’s natural heritage is inspiring. Her story is one of resilience, unwavering commitment, and a deep-rooted love for wildlife, especially for the vulnerable pangolin, which she admires for its gentle and delicate nature. With Focused Conservation’s support, Margaret continues her lifelong mission to protect Uganda’s wildlife, ensuring that future generations inherit a world where these majestic creatures can thrive. As a mother of four, Kasumba’s leadership strengthens Uganda’s ability to protect its wildlife, bringing her lifelong dream closer to reality—ensuring these creatures are safe and thriving for generations to come.
