ALBERTINE RIFT VALLEY CONTINUES ...
The impact of human activity on global biodiversity has prompted conservation and development organizations to define "biodiversity hotspots" as a tool to identify geographical areas that merit immediate attention for priority conservation activities. This concept began in 1988 when an original 10 hotspots were identified, composed of only tropical forests. Later 1991, 8 other hotspots were identified that included other vegetation types. In 2001, that list grew to 25 hotspots. February 2005, another 8 hotspots were identified and the Albertine Rift was "gazetted" in this new wave of endangered spaces. Currently, there are 34 bioversity hotspots identified on the planet. In order to be placed on this conversation black list, an eco-region needs to have high levels of species enderism and to have lost at least 70% of the natural vegetation cover. Unfortunately, the Albertine Rift meets those criteria.
While the situation is not the best for this imperiled biodiversity, all is not lost. Wildlife populations can rebound, if the habitat requirements are met and if enforcement is maintiained.
Your visit to Uganda can help to restore or repair some of the damage.
Tourism is a great medium to help turn this situation around, economically. Tourists to Uganda typically visit game parks or go gorilla trekking, stay inaccommodation built of local materials and eat locally prepared foods. Safari tour companies like Pearl of Africa Tours and Travel Limited (PATT) highlight popular tourist destinations and as a result we encourage our guests to visit local projects, historic sites and community based activities that generate income to the local populace.
Map of AlbertineRift Valley
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