James Musinguzi

James Musinguzi (born 27 July 1977) is a Ugandan environmentalist and the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

Early life and Educational background James Musinguzi was born on 27 July 1977 to Mr. and Ms. Phillip Kabonesa, who originate from Kyaaka County, Kyegegwa District, though the family later settled in Kabiri Gango, Masajja, Kampala. He began his primary education at Kibiri Day and Boarding Primary School in Masajja, where he served as Head Prefect and best student after achieving four aggregates in the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE).

Career in Wildlife Conservation Musinguzi joined UWEC in 2006 as an Education Officer, rose to Manager of Education and Information, then became Acting Executive Director around 2013, and was later confirmed as the substantive Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC).

In 2016, Musinguzi was re‑elected to the Executive Committee of the African Association of Zoos and Aquaria at the last PAAZA conference held in South Africa.

In October 2024, the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre was merged with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) to enhance wildlife conservation efforts in the country. Following the merger, Musinguzi shifted to UWA as the Director of Community Conservation and Ex-situ Wildlife Services. On April 1, 2025, Musinguzi officially assumed office as the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, succeeding Sam Mwandha.

Under his leadership, the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre was ranked as the best in the East and Central Africa by the Pan-African Zoo Association.

UWEC, under Musinguzi leadership was awarded the World Association of Zoos and Aquaria (Waza) Award.