Kara-Tunga Foundation: Cultivating Harmony and Prosperity
Are committed to cultivating harmonious and prosperous communities that cherish their cultural heritage, safeguard biodiversity, and coexist peacefully within a thriving natural environment.
Beyond Tourism:
After decades of hardship, the people of Karamoja have embraced tourism as a pathway towards a brighter future. However, poverty remains a persistent enemy, driving environmental degradation and trapping communities in a cycle of climate hardship. At Kara-Tunga Foundation, we are dedicated to breaking this cycle through sustainable initiatives that promote both environmental conservation and economic development.
Conservation Zones:
Operate in five Biodiversity Hotspots in Uganda’s northeastern Karamoja sub-region. Each zone aims to empower indigenous custodians to protect their natural assets and improve livelihoods. The zones are located at:
– Mount Moroto CFR
– Pian Upe WR / Mount Kadam CFR
– Kidepo Valley NP
– Timu Forest CFR
– Mount Morungole CFR
Alternative Livelihoods:
Support communities in developing community conservation enterprises aimed at the protection of biodiversity through poverty alleviation. Our initiatives include:
– Bee-Keeping and Agroforestry: Promoting sustainable agricultural practices that enhance biodiversity and provide economic benefits.
– Eco-Tourism: Encouraging tourism that respects and preserves natural and cultural heritage while generating income for local communities.
– Biodiversity Research and Monitoring: Supporting scientific research to inform conservation strategies and measure their effectiveness.
– Forest Restoration: Rehabilitating degraded forest areas to restore ecosystems and improve livelihoods.
– Cultural Heritage Preservation: Ensuring that the rich cultural heritage of Karamoja is celebrated and maintained for future generations.
Our Activities:
– Conservation Campsites: Establishing campsites that serve as bases for conservation activities and eco-tourism.
– Community Tourism Development: Building capacity within communities to engage in sustainable tourism practices.
– Cultural Heritage Preservation: Protecting and promoting the unique cultural traditions of Karamoja.
– Forest Restoration: Implementing reforestation projects to restore natural habitats and combat climate change.
– Honey Value Chain: Enhancing the production and marketing of honey to provide sustainable income sources.
– Biodiversity Research: Conducting research to support conservation efforts and inform policy decisions.
– Community Sensitization: Raising awareness about the importance of conservation and sustainable practices.
– Girl Child Education: Promoting education for girls as a key strategy for community development and poverty reduction.
At Kara-Tunga Foundation, we believe in a holistic approach to community development and environmental conservation. By integrating cultural heritage, biodiversity protection, and sustainable livelihoods, we are working towards a brighter, more sustainable future for the people of Karamoja. Join us in our mission to create harmonious and prosperous communities that thrive in balance with their natural environment.
