Musambwa Islands are 3 small rocky islands (average of 2.5ha) classified as important Bird Areas (IBA)in Rakai District off the shores of Sango Bay in Lake Victoria. The islands are of exceptional biodiversity importance supporting, among others, internationally significant numbers of four breeding species of birds. These are the African race of Grey-headed Gull (Larus cirrocephalus),Long-tailed Cormorant, Greater Cormorant and Little Egret. The islands are the only known breeding sites for the Grey-headed Gulls, Long-tailed Cormorant, Greater Cormorant and Little Egret, and certainly the largest for the Greater Cormorant in Uganda. Other species found breeding on the Island whose numbers have not been ascertained include the Sacred Ibis, Egyptian Goose, Common Moorhen Black Crake, Spur-winged plover and various species of weaverbirds. Reptiles such as snakes (python,Cobra) and lizards (including the monitor lizard) are also found on these Islands.
The birds are threatened by the unsustainable rates of egg collection by the fishermen, vegetation clearing for fuelwood and the lack of human sanitation on the islands. The project aims at conservation of biodiversity values of Musambwa Islands through sustainable partnerships with all stakeholders.
Activities include development of an institutional framework for conservation and mangement of Musambwa Islands Biodiversity. Institutionalisation of control measures (eg Bylaws) to reduce pressure on the islands. Community eco-tourism and other alternative income generating activities. Research, biodiversity inventory and information dissemination.