Entebbe, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | The Uganda Wildlife Education and Conservation Centre (UWEC), commonly known as the Entebbe Zoo, has been compelled to take down a snake sculpture erected along the Entebbe Highway in Katabi following community backlash.
Residents and local schools voiced apprehension, stating that the python sculpture was frightening children who mistook it for a real snake.
Furthermore, some members of the Christian community viewed the presence of the snake sculpture as ominous, drawing associations with biblical narratives.
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Concerns were also raised regarding potential accidents as motorists might mistake the sculpture for a live serpent.
In an attempt to enhance Entebbe’s aesthetic appeal through tourism initiatives, UWEC embarked on a beautification project funded by a World Bank loan.
However, in light of community feedback, UWEC has halted the installation of snake sculptures, including a cobra awaiting placement, which is currently housed at the UWEC facility.
