• Conservation-oriented research and monitoring

    Our primary work is the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources in and around the protected areas of the Albertine Rift ecoregion – an area with significant concentration of globally unique biodiversity in Africa.


  • At the heart of mountain gorilla conservation

    With our base and facilities in Ruhija, Bwindi, our conservation work for mountain gorillas is very important for their survival.


  • Record of conservation achievements

    Our research, monitoring, and training achievements are of global, national and local significance.


Welcome to ITFC

The Institute of Tropical Forest Conservation (ITFC) is a leading Ugandan research institution working primarily for biodiversity conservation and the sustainable management of natural resources in the Albertine Rift ecoregion. The institute was established in 1991 as a semi-autonomous research institute and field station of Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST).

Director's Welcome

A quick word from the Director ITFC - to get you familiarized with the institute, what we do and how we work.

History

From humble beginnings in 1983, ITFC has grown as has the significance of our work. Learn about our history.

Working with ITFC

At ITFC, we are always looking to work with new people - because conservation is collective effort.

Our Mother Institution

ITFC is one of the eight academic units of Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) as per the Universities and other tertiary institutions Act of 2003 (revised in 2006) . It was established as a semi-autonomous postgraduate field station and research institute.

Our Vision

The Conservation of Albertine Rift protected areas and the welfare of neighbouring local communities enhanced.

Our Mission

To be a leading institution that supports ecological and sociological research, monitoring and training in the Albertine Rift ecoregion.

Where We Work

Our research, training and monitoring is mainly focussed and takes place in and around the protected areas of the Albertine Rift ecoregion. Learn more from all our study sites.

Our Research

For over 27 years now, we continue to carry out vast research topics related to ecological and sociological aspects in the Albertine rift region. Here is where you can find our research.

Projects

As part of ITFC's work, we have many various projects - regarding the various aspects of conservation. These projects take are carried out by ITFC and partners. 

Stories

Over so many years of working directly in Bwindi, the people at ITFC have some incredible stories, fond memories - and close calls. Here are some of those stories by our people.