Near Entebbe – A Visit to Zika Forest – where the Zika Virus originated
Zika Forest -Home of the Ugandan Virus Research Institute – Great Place for Birding
A Visit to Zika Forest – where the Zika Virus originated was discovered in 1947 by the Scottish Virologist Alexander Hamilton. Aide African Mosquito carried the virus in Uganda. Unlike
many South America (different strains) and North America, Uganda is Zika Virus Free.
Zika Forest is home to the Uganda Virus Research Institute, which researches the insects and possible diseases they carry. It is also where school children come to see the 24-acre forest and the 40-meter-tall research tower in the midst of it.
Zika Forest is also on the list of places to visit for Birders and other tourists; even US President Jimmy Carter ventured here on a birding Safari so that you would be in good company.
Besides many birds found here, one can also spot Leopards, snakes, and A large number of Butterflies, along with noisy red-tailed and colobus monkeys and butterflies.
Though just 24 acres, the forest is under attack from humans; deforestation is one problem, and humans clearing the forest for houses and gardens is another. The latter is a general problem with protected forests and parks throughout Uganda.
Zika Forest remains near Entebbe, where you can see a historical place where the Zika Virus was first discovered and where you can take in a tranquil forest with mature trees, birds, monkeys, and assorted wildlife.
