Bwindi Clean Habitat for Communities and Wildlife (BCHCAW) is a non-profit organization based in Buhoma Town Council, Kanungu District, near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Established in 2022 by Mugyenyi Isaiah, a dedicated resident of Buhoma, BCHCAW was founded to address critical sanitation and environmental challenges that pose significant threats to both the local human population and the endangered Mountain Gorillas inhabiting Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to almost half of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas, making it a crucial site for conservation efforts. However, the region faces serious sanitation challenges due to its unique geographical and environmental conditions.  Bwindi Forest is largely rocky, making it difficult to dig the recommended 30cm deep holes for human waste disposal. As a result, human parasites from exposed fecal matter can contaminate vegetation, fallen fruits, and stems, which gorillas ingest, leading to infections. Studies indicate a rising trend in cases of gorillas suffering from internal human-related parasites, sometimes resulting in fatalities.

This improper waste disposal creates a severe ecological and health crisis. When human waste is left exposed, it becomes a breeding ground for harmful parasites that find their way into the food chain of gorillas. Gorillas in Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks rely on natural vegetation, fallen fruits, and tree stems for sustenance. Unfortunately, contaminated fecal matter in these areas leads to gorillas ingesting parasites that can cause serious health complications and even fatalities.

Scientific research and field observations have documented a worrying rise in gorillas suffering from human-related internal parasites. The presence of parasites such as hookworms is particularly alarming, as these can weaken gorillas’ immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections and other health complications. The increased interaction between humans and wildlife, mainly due to expanding communities and tourism activities, heightens the risk of zoonotic disease transmission.

Moreover, the region’s steep landscape worsens the sanitation problem. When it rains, untreated human waste is washed into rivers and other water sources that local communities depend on for domestic use. This contamination leads to a surge in waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and dysentery, further exacerbating public health concerns in the area. Without urgent intervention, the sanitation crisis poses a growing threat to both human and wildlife populations, jeopardizing conservation efforts and sustainable tourism in Bwindi.

Mission Statement

To enhance sanitation for wildlife and communities around Bwindi National Park with a strong emphasis on effective waste disposal management.

Vision Statement

To become the leading provider of sanitary facilities in conservation areas, promoting health and environmental sustainability across Uganda.

Legal Status and Registration

BCHCAW is a legally registered organization under the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) with the registration number 80034445043377. This legal recognition enables the organization to collaborate with government agencies, conservation bodies, and local communities in achieving its mission.

Impact and Future Plans

Since its establishment in 2022, BCHCAW has made significant strides in improving sanitation conditions in Buhoma and surrounding communities. The organization has established pilot mobile washrooms in high-risk areas and engaged local residents in sanitation awareness programs. Moving forward, BCHCAW aims to:

• Scale up its mobile washrooms and pit latrines initiative to cover more villages and communities around Bwindi.
• Implement a community-led waste management system that includes recycling and composting initiatives.
• Establish partnerships with international conservation organizations to mobilize funding and technical support.
• Expand its research initiatives to document the impact of improved sanitation on gorilla health and community well-being.

The sanitation challenges faced by communities around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park pose a serious threat to both human and wildlife health. Without proper waste disposal systems, the risk of disease transmission between humans and gorillas continues to rise, endangering conservation efforts. BCHCAW remains committed to providing sustainable solutions that enhance sanitation, protect wildlife, and promote community health. Through continued collaboration, advocacy, and innovation, the organization seeks to become a leading force in sanitation and environmental sustainability in Uganda’s conservation areas.