This month we would like to specially acknowledge Tadeo Buhanga as our Ranger of the Month for his commitment and integrity in carrying out his duties.

Strictly speaking, Tadeo is not a ranger; but rather has been seconded from UPDF (the Uganda army)  to provide security for tourists at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

All tourists trekking groups are accompanied by a guide, potters (optional) and two security personnel providing
front and rear protection. Lance Corporal Tadeo Buhanga is one of these unsung heroes who ensure the safety
of the groups. In addition, they also provide security for the vanguard rangers who scout the gorilla families and track them down for the tourist groups and also all for the ranger teams engaged in habituation assignments.

Born in 1975, Tadeo joined the UPDF in 1999. In 2008, he was deployed to work under the SWIFT programme - the
Special Wildlife Integrated Force for Tourism and has been attached to the Bwindi/Mgahinga since then.
Currently, Tadeo is involved in the habituation of a Oruzogo gorilla family.

Being in constant contact with the various gorilla groups, he has his favourite family and the Bitukura family,
under the leadership of the silverback Ndahura, happen to be it. This is not surprising as it is this family that
provide his most cherished and his worst experiences with the great apes. He fondly remembers a time when the
blackback Obia, turned the tables on him and stalked him determinedly. When the ape caught up with him
he tried to lure Tadeo into playing with him by punching him softly on his leg. However, when the silverback Rukumu once took a fancy to charge at Tadeo, it was clear that the gorilla was not in a playful mood and Tadeo often shudders
to remember the incident.

Tadeo takes special pride in his job as he sees it as his personal contribution to the conservation of the world's
resources.