10-year plan launched to restore Ishasha’s tree-climbing lions

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) have launched a 10-year partnership to restore the declining population of tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth Conservation Area.

The programme is expected to attract about $14 million in investment, with the first five years focused on improving habitat, protecting wildlife and addressing threats affecting the lion population.

UWA says only two female lions currently remain in Ishasha, one of Uganda’s most renowned destinations for tree-climbing lions.

John Makombo, UWA Commissioner for Biodiversity Management, attributed the decline to human-wildlife conflict, movement of lions out of the area and breeding challenges.

He said lions that move into communities and attack livestock can be killed in retaliation, including through poisoning. Cultural practices involving the removal of body parts from dead lions were also cited as a threat.

Despite the decline, WCS says it will not immediately introduce new lions. Dr Simon Takozekibi Nampindo said the priority is to address existing threats, improve community relations and restore the habitat.
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If the interventions succeed, the partners may consider introducing wild female lions from other populations, potentially including Murchison Falls National Park, to improve breeding. Natural movement of lions between Uganda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo could also support recovery.

Beyond lions, the 10-year programme will cover the wider Ishasha ecosystem, including elephants, buffaloes and topi, through habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, tourism development and efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict.

A six-member joint management committee, with three representatives from each organisation, has also been established to oversee the partnership and monitor its progress.​