Kampala, Uganda — The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has held the third edition of the Uganda Conservation Media Awards, celebrating excellence in environmental journalism and wildlife storytelling.
The ceremony, hosted at Protea Kampala, brought together journalists, conservationists, and development partners to recognise reporting that has amplified Uganda’s conservation agenda.
Zuma Mukalazi Wins Wildlife Photography Award
Among the evening’s standout winners was photographer Mükalazi Jacob Zuma, who took home the Wildlife Photograph of the Year award.
Communications professional Bashir Hangi congratulated Mukalazi, noting that the awards aim to inspire journalists and creatives who bring wildlife conservation issues to the forefront of public discourse.
In a brief response shared online, Mukalazi celebrated the win, expressing gratitude for the recognition.
Media Praised for Advancing Conservation
UWA Executive Director James Musinguzi applauded journalists for highlighting critical issues such as wildlife crime, human-wildlife conflict, climate change, and community conservation. He observed an increase in both the number and quality of submissions this year, signaling growing professionalism in conservation reporting.
Dr. Musinguzi reaffirmed UWA’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with media practitioners and revealed that social media influencers will also be considered in future award categories.
The awards were officially opened by UWA Board Chair James Kalema, who underscored the strategic role of the media in shaping Uganda’s conservation narrative. He described the awards as an investment in responsible journalism, informed public debate, and sustainable environmental outcomes.
Government Support
The State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra, commended journalists for championing conservation through impactful reporting that strengthens public awareness and accountability. He also acknowledged partners such as WildAid Africa for supporting the awards and advancing responsible communication around wildlife protection.
Organisers noted that this year’s competition was particularly tight, reflecting rising standards in investigative reporting, photography, documentaries, radio, television, and digital storytelling focused on conservation.
Submissions for the fourth edition of the Uganda Conservation Media Awards are now officially open, with UWA encouraging journalists to continue engaging critically and constructively on environmental issues shaping the country and beyond.
