2.3
Protection of Species of Special Categories
Parties to CITES are obliged to adopt strict domestic measures regarding restricting or prohibiting
trade of species listed in the three appendices of CITES as well as those not listed.
Appendix I includes species that are threatened with extinction and for which trade must be subject to
particularly strict regulations and only authorised in exceptional circumstances.
Appendix II includes species that are not necessarily now threatened with extinction but may become
so unless trade in them is strictly regulated. Appendix II also contains so-called lookalike species, which are controlled because of their similarity in appearance to the other
regulated species, thereby facilitating a more effective control.
Appendix III includes species that are subject to regulation within the jurisdiction of a party and for
which the co-operation of other parties is needed in order to prevent or restrict their
exploitation.
CITES Parties are not under any obligations regarding species not listed in these appendices. However
they may adopt more strict domestic measures for the listed species and institute national laws
controlling trade in non-listed species. Annex 8a gives the list of species protected under CITES that
are found in Uganda. Access to genetic resources of any species listed as protected or threatened can
only be granted after an applicant has obtained written approval from the CITES Management
Authority.
2.4
Environment Impact Assessment
Decisions leading to access to genetic resources have to be subjected to Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) in conformity with existing legislation. The applicant and owner of the resources
are required to take into consideration the environmental consequences of the access activities. Before
entering into a MTA, it shall be determined whether the AGR is likely to result into significant
environmental impacts or not. Should this be the case, then an EIA shall be done. Uganda is guided by
the Environment Impact Assessment Guidelines of 1997 and Regulations of 1998.
Guidelines for Access to Genetic Resources and Benefits Sharing
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