info.gorilla[at]mak.ac.ug
Exploring the diverse captivating Elgon Landscape
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A three day post GORILLA conference excursion is being organized to mountain Elgon in Eastern Uganda. The gist of the conference is to elicit a range of sustainability issues as stipulated in the Global Development Agenda 2030 distilling challenges and opportunities premised on field conditions. The post GORILLA conference excursion intends to further the sharing of knowledge on emerging issues in the context of a hotspot region with great contrast; degradation, diverse ecosystems, restoration and livelihoods. While, the major concentration is on mountain Elgon, which also hosts the Biosphere Reserve,
The time of excursion also coincides with key UN international celebrations of the International Mountain Day (IMD) Â It is therefore humbling that we join with the rest of the international community and the local partners in celebrating these two special occasions in order to create awareness about the importance of mountains including the challenges faced and thus bolster the agenda toward Sustainable Mountain Development (SMD) in Uganda.
Objectives of the excursion:
- To acquaint the participants with the existing local problems and on-going initiatives
- Provide opportunity for participants to tour and enjoy the beautiful unique features transcending the region
Output:
- Field excursion scientific report
Outcome:
- Improved understanding of the varied ecosystem problems and challenges, and existing interventions by different stakeholders
Excursion planned activities and date:
| Activities | Day | Date |
|---|---|---|
| This is largely a travel day. However, we shall have one main and brief stop over at selected sites largely for roadside observations and briefings. The first stop over at Mabira forest Reserve- Lugazi Sugar cane landscape, is a land mark site of convergence for conservation and economic interests. Another brief stop over will be an Jinja city historical landmark; the source of the Nile River | 1 | 10 Dec 2022 |
| Travel to the field in the mountain (Sipi falls and associated cave complexes plus Atari Integrated Landscape Management project pilot sites) for half day and converge for IMD/IYSMD celebrations* in the afternoon at Wash and Willis Hotel. | 2 | 11 Dec 2022 |
| Travel back to Kampala | 3 | 12 Dec 2022 |
Cost of Field Excursion
Each participant will pay USD 300 to cater for accommodation, meals and other costs. It is hoped that the University (CAES) will provide support for transportation.
Application
All those interested should notify the secretariat at https://gorilla.mak.ac.ug/field-excursion
Contact
Information for the conference excursion can be obtained by sending an email to: gorilla@mak.ac.ug: or Dr. Bob Nakileza (nakilezabob@gmail.com).