Karuma Wildlife Reserve, established in 1964 and spanning 675 square kilometers in Uganda's Kiryandongo District, serves as an important ecological buffer adjacent to Murchison Falls National Park. Managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, it falls under IUCN Category III and supports a diverse range of fauna, including elephants, giraffes, leopards, olive baboons, and numerous bird species such as the red-throated bee-eater and giant heron. Originally designated a controlled hunting area in 1962, the reserve today plays a dual role in conservation and infrastructure, notably housing the 600-megawatt Karuma Hydropower Plant, which was developed under national environmental oversight.