A celebratory atmosphere filled Protea Hotel in Kololo, Kampala, as the Uganda Wildlife Authority honored the most exceptional journalists in conservation reporting for the year 2025.

The nature themed event was attended by the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra Bahinduka, who praised the journalists for their relentless efforts in sharing impactful conservation stories.

The Minister expressed gratitude to supporting partners and urged other stakeholders to join in backing the media to continue highlighting stories of resilience and innovation within the conservation sector.

In his opening remarks, UWA Executive Director Dr. James Musinguzi highlighted the growth of the Authority’s conservation awards from the first edition to the third, with the fourth scheduled for 2026, indicating increasing trust in the awards and growing interest from donors to engage more professionally in conservation journalism.

He stated, “UWA remains dedicated to collaborating closely with the media by enhancing access to information, ensuring accountability, facilitating field visits, and supporting responsible and ethical reporting.” He also announced the 2026 Conservation Media Awards and encouraged journalists to begin preparing their submissions.

UWA Board Chairman Prof. James Kalema emphasized that modern conservation extends beyond protecting the environment on the ground; it also involves shaping mindsets, influencing national and international conversations, and building long-term public support—all vital roles fulfilled by the media through their reporting, photography, documentaries, and radio/television broadcasts.

He added that the media have successfully brought conservation issues closer to the public, who greatly appreciate these efforts.

UWA Assistant Commissioner Communications, Bashir Hangi, stated that the quality of stories is improving every year, demonstrating that UWA's media capacity-building efforts in nature, conservation, and wildlife storytelling are making a significant impact.

Maz Robertson, the WildAid East African Representative, emphasized that this time, journalists truly committed themselves to thoroughly investigating their stories, using multiple sources and carefully verified facts, which made all categories highly competitive.

The awards recognized winners in five categories: Community Conservation, awarded to Edward Anyoli, Richard Olweny, and David Ochieng; Habitat and Environment, won by Gerald Tenywa and Eli Akiiza; Wildlife Crime, received by Innocent Kiiza and Johnisani Ocakacon; Wildlife Protection, awarded to Sarah Mawelere and Joshua Kagoro; and Photograph of the Year, which went to Jacob Mukalazi.

Each winner received 5 million shillings in cash, while runners-up were given certificates and a one-year free entry pass to all of Uganda’s national parks.