Economic Tools to Improve Infrastructure Planning and Conserve Biodiversity

The study aimed to evaluate the economic viability of upgrading the existing road through the park versus alternative routes that would bypass the park. Initial assessments suggested that upgrading the existing road would lead to increased mortality among mountain gorillas due to disease, poaching, and vehicle collisions. The analysis revealed that two alternative routes would have a better overall economic performance than upgrading the existing road, despite having higher up-front costs. These routes would provide thousands more people with access to essential services such as healthcare and education, while also presenting lower overall risks to the gorilla population. When considering the potential loss of tourism revenue due to reduced gorilla populations, upgrading the road through the park would actually cost twice as much as the alternatives. Stephen Asuma, Uganda Country Coordinator for the International Gorilla Conservation Programme, received training in economic tools to support biodiversity conservation in the Albertine Rift region. The course, "Economic Tools for Conservation and Infrastructure Planning in the Albertine Rift," was offered by Conservation Strategy Fund (CSF) as part of USAID's Biodiversity Understanding in Infrastructure and Landscape Development (BUILD) Program. The training enabled Stephen and his colleagues to understand principles of economics and development work, quantify and monetize the value of natural resources, and articulate the case for sustainable development. The study has been widely disseminated through meetings with local communities and politicians, and Stephen and his colleagues remain hopeful that the economic realities revealed by the study will sway decision-makers in favor of the alternative routes. The Uganda National Road Authority has expressed openness to considering the alternative routes, and the Uganda Poverty and Conservation Learning Group has endorsed the results of the analysis, stating that the development of a road outside the park presents a potential win-win outcome for local economic development and community engagement. The economic analysis has significant implications for biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in the Albertine Rift region. The study demonstrates the importance of integrating biodiversity and other development sectors for effective outcomes, as emphasized in USAID's Biodiversity Policy released in 2014. The analysis also highlights the need for strong consultation and communication throughout the project, as exemplified by Stephen's engagement with local community members, authorities, and stakeholders.