In-house Editor

As part of the Van-Mahotsav-2023 week, the Goa Forest Department’s South Marine Range organized Van-Mahotsav events in schools across Canacona. Van Mahotsav, observed annually from July 1st to 7th, is a nationwide celebration of forests and aims to raise awareness about the importance of trees and plants in our lives.

The Wildlife and Eco-Tourism division of the Goa Forest Department, along with Round Foresters, Forest Guards, and Forest Rescuers, conducted the Van-Mahotsav-2023 activities at St. Anthony High School in Galgibaga and Government Higher School in Agonda. Students and teachers actively participated in planting saplings of Guava, Lime, Pomegranate, Tamarind, Avalo, and Lemon-Grass within the school premises. Additionally, the forest department provided saplings for students to plant at their homes.

During the events, Assistant Conservator of Forests Damodar Salelkar and Range Forest Officer Rajesh V Naik highlighted the significance of Van-Mahotsav and the need to increase tree plantation. Local authorities and school representatives, including headmistresses and headmasters, also attended the celebrations, emphasizing the importance of forest conservation and tree preservation.

The Ministry of Tourism in Uganda has pledged its support to the Wildlife Research and Training Institute (UWRTI) for its crucial role in conducting research in the tourism sector. The institute, located in Katwe-Kabatoro, Kasese District, is responsible for providing research, training, and consultancy services in wildlife conservation.

State Minister for Tourism, Martin Mugara Bahinduka, emphasized the importance of research in the development of the tourism sector and the conservation of nature. He

expressed his concern that many researchers conduct valuable studies but fail to share their findings with the government or relevant agencies.

The UWRTI, as the only middle-level institution offering professional training in Wildlife and Tourism Management, plays a vital role in addressing issues such as wildlife-human conflicts and invasive species. National parks, including Queen Elizabeth National Park, are facing challenges from invasive plant species that threaten wildlife habitats.

The minister highlighted the significance of research and innovation in the environmental sector and announced increased funding for the UWRTI’s research programs. However, there is still a need for additional financial support to fully implement the institute’s master plan.

Researchers and scholars attending the symposium emphasized the importance of incorporating research findings into decision-making processes. They encouraged higher education institutions and students to engage in research and innovation, as it contributes to socio-economic transformation.

The commitment from the Ministry of Tourism and the acknowledgment of the UWRTI’s research efforts demonstrate Uganda’s dedication to promoting sustainable tourism and wildlife conservation through evidence-based decision-making.

The picturesque Kuno National Park in Madhya Pradesh, known for its rich biodiversity and as a potential second home for Asiatic lions, has received a boost in its conservation efforts. The park has recently been declared a tiger reserve, highlighting its significance for wildlife conservation. This new status is expected to attract increased attention and resources for the protection and preservation of the park’s flora and fauna.

The Kuno National Park, spread across approximately 750 square kilometers, has been a subject of conservation efforts for several years, aiming to reintroduce the Asiatic lions from Gujarat’s Gir Forest. With the tiger reserve designation, the park will now receive additional support and funding, which will contribute to its wildlife conservation programs and infrastructure development.

This recognition is a positive step towards safeguarding the diverse ecosystems and wildlife species within the Kuno National Park, ensuring their long-term survival and promoting sustainable tourism in the region.

The tourism industry in Kenya, a popular destination known for its wildlife and natural beauty, is experiencing a significant recovery after the impact of the pandemic. Before the global health crisis, Kenya attracted over 2 million tourists annually and was a major contributor to foreign exchange earnings.

The government has recognized the importance of domestic tourism in driving sector growth, particularly with the emergence of a growing middle class and the diversification of products to cater to local travelers.

However, there are several key issues that need to be addressed. The safari and beach products in Kenya have not kept up with changing consumer needs and trends, and there is a concentration of wildlife tourism in a few parks. Bed capacity is unevenly distributed, with most accommodations centered around Nairobi, the coast, and the Rift Valley. Security concerns and regional political instability also impact tourism.

To attract more tourists, Kenya has launched a new strategy that aims to reduce reliance on safari and beach tourism. It focuses on developing other forms of tourism, such as health and medical tourism, community-based tourism, business and conference tourism, and heritage tourism.

Overall, while there are challenges, the tourism industry in Kenya is working towards diversification and attracting a wider range of tourists to ensure sustainable growth and contribute to the country’s economy.