The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) have launched a 10-year conservation plan to reverse the decline of lions in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The partnership is expected to attract approximately US$14 million in investment. Ishasha is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a unique attraction that has drawn tourists for years. However, the population has come under increasing pressure from habitat challenges, human-wildlife conflict and other threats.

The new plan focuses on habitat restoration, stronger anti-poaching measures, community engagement and scientific monitoring to rebuild a viable lion population. Officials say the initiative is critical not only for biodiversity but also for tourism revenue in the region.

Conservationists have welcomed the long-term commitment, noting that sustained funding and collaboration will be essential if the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha are to recover and thrive once again.