Bigode also called Magombe wetland in Kamwenge District is one of the hottest spots for bird watching with over 130 bird species.

The 8km long and about 500 metres wide wetland used to be a corridor for animals from the southern to the northern parts of Kibaale Forest National Park (KNP). After crossing the gorgeous KNP, you will have reached this historical wetland.

A hippo trail created in the 1960s that runs through the wetland makes it unique from other wetlands in Kamwenge. It is also home to primates and important tree species among others. The rich biodiversity also includes butterflies, insects, fish species and amphibians.

Other species of wildlife are the sitatunga, bush pigs, bushbucks and the mongoose. This rich wetland attracted six men who resolved to use it as a tourist attraction centre to bring benefits to the communities around it and encourage conservation.

Part of Bigodi wetland is now a haven for tourists. To achieve this dream of conserving the environment and improving the quality of life of Ugandans, John Tinka together with Asaba Silver, William Kasenene, Japan Yofesi, Benon Tumwesige and the late Tom Namanya started Kibaale Association for Rural and Environmental Development (KAFRED) as a Community Based Organisation.

By NAMISI

Uganda Safari News