The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has officially opened the 3rd Edition of the Uganda Conservation Media Awards, with government and conservation leaders praising journalists for shaping the country’s conservation agenda.
Speaking at the event held at Protea Hotel in Kampala, the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra, commended members of the media for promoting wildlife conservation through responsible and impactful reporting.
He said journalists have played a key role in raising awareness and strengthening accountability on critical issues affecting Uganda’s wildlife and natural heritage. The Minister also appreciated partners such as WildAid Africa for supporting the awards and advancing conservation efforts in the country.
UWA Executive Director, Dr. James Musinguzi, applauded the media for consistently highlighting wildlife crime, human-wildlife conflict, climate change and other pressing conservation concerns. He noted that this year’s edition registered an increase in both the number and quality of submissions.
Dr. Musinguzi reaffirmed UWA’s commitment to working closely with journalists and announced that social media influencers will also be considered in the awards. He further confirmed that submissions for the 4th Edition are now officially open.
The ceremony was presided over by UWA Board Chairperson, Prof. James Kalema, who underscored the strategic role of the media in telling Uganda’s conservation story. He said investigative reporting, photography, documentaries, radio, television and digital storytelling have helped bring conservation issues closer to the public, both locally and internationally.
Prof. Kalema noted that the growing number of entries and the tight competition reflect rising professionalism among journalists covering conservation. He described the awards as an important investment in responsible journalism, informed public debate and sustainable conservation outcomes.
The UWA Board reaffirmed its full support for the initiative and encouraged journalists to continue engaging critically and constructively on conservation matters.
