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Kidepo International Airport – President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni presided over the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) yesterday on 20thJune 2024, evening at Speke Resort Munyonyo. The MOU was between the Government of Uganda and the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry from the United Arab Emirates. President Museveni expressed his approval of this agreement between Uganda and the Chamber.

About Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park, located in northeastern Uganda, is one of Africa’s most remote and magnificent parks. Covering 1,442 square kilometers, it is situated in the rugged, semi-arid valleys between Uganda’s borders with Sudan and Kenya. The park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, characterized by vast savannas, soaring mountains, and the seasonal Kidepo and Narus rivers.

Established in 1962, Kidepo Valley National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including 77 mammal species and over 475 bird species. Visitors can encounter elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and the rare Rothschild’s giraffe. The park is particularly famous for its large herds of buffalo and a variety of antelope species, such as the eland, bushbuck, and Uganda kob.

Kidepo’s unique flora and fauna are complemented by its cultural richness. The park is surrounded by the Karamojong and IK tribes, whose traditional lifestyles and vibrant cultures add to the park’s allure. Activities in the park include game drives, guided nature walks, and cultural tours, offering an immersive experience into the region’s natural beauty and heritage.

Despite its remote location, Kidepo Valley National Park is a hidden gem, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing and an authentic African wilderness experience, making it a must-visit destination for adventurous travelers.

He was pleased to observe that Uganda and the Gulf countries have significantly strengthened their relations, a development not seen in the past. He highlighted the substantial investment potential between Uganda and the Gulf countries that should be explored.

The MOU was signed by the Government of Uganda, represented by the Ministry of Works and Transport, Civil Aviation Authority, Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, and Uganda Wildlife Authority, along with the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

In the Memorandum, the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry agreed to construct Kidepo International Airport near Kidepo National Park and build tourist hotels within the park to boost Uganda’s tourism sector and economy.

H.E. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Chamber, informed the President that the airport construction is scheduled to begin in August 2024, assuring timely and high-quality work.

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding was witnessed by several dignitaries, including Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, Minister of Internal Affairs; Gen. Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport for Uganda; Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities in Uganda; and H.E. Abdalla Hassan Alshamsi, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Uganda.

Things to do in Kidepo Valley National Park

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Game Drives

Kidepo Valley National Park offers some of the best game drives in Uganda. The park’s diverse landscapes, from open savannahs to dense forests, provide excellent opportunities to spot a wide variety of wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon drives are particularly rewarding, as animals are most active during these times. Visitors can see elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, and numerous antelope species. The Narus Valley, in particular, is a hotspot for wildlife sightings.

Guided Nature Walks

For those who prefer exploring on foot, guided nature walks are a fantastic way to experience Kidepo’s unique ecosystem up close. Accompanied by knowledgeable park rangers, visitors can traverse the park’s diverse terrain, learning about the flora and fauna. These walks often provide opportunities to spot smaller creatures and bird species that might be missed during game drives. The nature walks also offer a chance to learn about the medicinal plants used by the local communities.

Bird Watching

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Kidepo Valley National Park is a haven for bird watchers, boasting over 475 bird species, including some that are endemic to the region. Enthusiasts can look forward to spotting species such as the Abyssinian ground hornbill, Kori bustard, and the rare Karamoja apalis. The park’s varied habitats, from wetlands to open grasslands, attract a diverse range of birds, making it a prime location for birding activities. Early mornings are the best times for bird watching, when birds are most active.

Cultural Encounters

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The park is not only rich in wildlife but also in cultural heritage. Visitors can engage in cultural tours to the nearby Karamojong and IK communities. These tours offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles, customs, and crafts of these indigenous groups. Interacting with the local people provides a deeper understanding of their way of life and the challenges they face. Visitors can participate in traditional dances, visit homesteads, and learn about the unique practices of these tribes.

Scenic Viewing

The park’s dramatic landscapes provide numerous spots for scenic viewing. The Kidepo River Valley, with its stunning borassus palm trees, and the Narus Valley, with its perennial water sources, are particularly picturesque. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the rugged terrain and open plains, often with wildlife grazing in the distance. These scenic viewpoints are perfect for photography, allowing visitors to capture the beauty of Kidepo’s wilderness.

Camping

Camping in Kidepo Valley National Park offers an immersive wilderness experience. The park has several designated camping sites where visitors can set up tents and enjoy the tranquility of the African bush. Camping allows for a closer connection to nature, with the sounds of the wild providing a unique backdrop. It also offers the chance to experience the park at night, when nocturnal animals become active and the starry sky creates a magical atmosphere.

See other national parks in Uganda Here.

For more about Kidepo Valley National Park, visit a official website for Uganda Wildlife Authority.

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