KAMPALA — The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has launched the Open Park Days Influencer Campaign, an initiative aimed at encouraging more Ugandans to explore the country’s protected areas through authentic digital storytelling and firsthand tourism experiences.
The campaign was officially flagged off with a journey to Murchison Falls National Park, where a team of influencers led by Ugandan musician Ykee Benda embarked on a mission to showcase Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes and conservation efforts to a wider audience.
“Today, we’ve flagged off our influencer team, led by @YkeeBenda, to Murchison Falls NP for the #UWAOpenParkDays activations,” UWA said.
“Stay locked in as we bring you exciting moments, unforgettable experiences, and all the highlights from the adventure.”
The influencer campaign is part of preparations for the Open Park Days scheduled for September 25–27, which will provide Ugandans an opportunity to visit some of the country’s most iconic national parks and wildlife reserves while promoting domestic tourism.
The initiative seeks to use the influence of digital content creators to inspire more citizens to experience Uganda’s natural heritage and understand the importance of conservation.
Flagging off the campaign, UWA Acting Executive Director Afande Charles Tumwesigye urged the influencers to tell Uganda’s conservation story accurately and authentically by working closely with UWA teams during their visits.
He said the campaign reflects UWA’s commitment to making Uganda’s protected areas more accessible while encouraging citizens to appreciate the country’s wildlife and natural resources.
The Open Park Days will allow visitors to access several national parks, including Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park.
Visitors will also have access to wildlife reserves including Ajai Wildlife Reserve, Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, Katonga Wildlife Reserve and Toro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve.
Speaking at the launch, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) Chief Executive Officer Juliana Kagwa encouraged the influencers to proudly promote Uganda’s tourism attractions, saying that telling the country’s story is a shared responsibility.
She reaffirmed UTB’s support for the campaign by providing vehicles to facilitate activations across the country.
UWA Acting Commissioner for Tourism and Business Development Dorcus Rukundo encouraged young Ugandans to embrace domestic tourism, connect with nature and use their platforms to inspire others to discover Uganda’s unique attractions.
The campaign will feature immersive park experiences, wildlife encounters, conservation education and digital content aimed at creating greater appreciation for Uganda’s natural heritage.
With Ykee Benda leading the influencer team to Murchison Falls National Park, UWA hopes the campaign will reach new audiences, particularly young Ugandans, and demonstrate that conservation and tourism are not only national responsibilities but also opportunities for economic growth and community development.
