Uganda Baati Limited, a member of the Safal Group through its foundation arm, Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, has officially launched the 2026 edition of Safal Eye in the Wild Competition to leverage art for conservation while funding education across East Africa.
The launch was attended by the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), and other stakeholders.
The Safal Eye in the Wild competition has evolved into a flagship regional platform that leverages the power of photography to advance environmental conservation and education across East and Southern Africa.
Bringing together professional, amateur, and young photographers, the initiative invites participants to capture compelling visual stories that highlight the connection between nature, communities, and sustainable development.
Importantly, every photograph submitted goes beyond artistic expression to drive meaningful community impact, supporting environmental awareness and funding education initiatives, including classrooms and scholarships across the region.
Speaking at the launch, Jackie Tahakanizibwa, Head of External & Corporate Affairs at Uganda Baati, underscored the transformative power of visual storytelling: “At Uganda Baati, we believe that great photography does more than capture images, it captures stories, inspires action, and deepens our connection to the world around us. Through this competition, every image has the power to spark awareness and inspire us to protect our natural heritage.”
Participants are invited to submit photographs that reflect conservation, nature, and community impact, using either professional cameras or mobile devices.
Entries are uploaded via the official campaign platform and evaluated by an expert panel of judges based on:
- Creativity and originality
- Technical quality
- Alignment with the “Frame Your Future” theme
Top entries will be recognised and celebrated at a prestigious red-carpet gala event on 17th July 2026, highlighting the region’s most impactful visual storytellers.
Awards
- Gold Award – USD 3,000
- Silver Award – USD 2,000
- Bronze Award – USD 1,000
- Public Award – USD 500
- Amateur/Minor Award – USD 500
The initiative is delivered in collaboration with key partners committed to sustainability, education, and inclusive development.
George Mubiru, Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, highlighted the initiative’s deeper impact:
“At the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, we believe that true impact happens at the intersection of environment, education, and community. This competition transforms photography into a force for learning, awareness, and opportunity for the next generation.”
The Assistant Commissioner Environment Education and Advocacy at National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Mr. Wilbert Ikilai, said: “The Safal Eye in the Wild initiative is a powerful reminder that environmental conservation begins with awareness. It inspires responsible stewardship and encourages all of us to protect the ecosystems that sustain our future.”
The CEO, Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), Mr. Steven Asiimwe said: “This initiative demonstrates how the private sector can drive meaningful impact beyond business. It shows that sustainable development is best achieved through strong partnerships and shared responsibility.”
The Executive Director, Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA) Dr. Ezra Muhumuza emphasised: “As manufacturers, sustainability is central to the future of our industry. This competition highlights how innovation and creativity can amplify awareness and inspire more sustainable practices.”
Launched in 2017, Safal Eye in the Wild has grown into a regional movement, evolving from an annual themed competition into a long-term impact platform anchored in education and sustainability.
This new chapter reinforces Safal Group’s commitment to using creativity as a catalyst for solving environmental and social challenges, while empowering communities and shaping a more sustainable future.
Photographers across the region are invited to submit their entries through the official campaign platform: 👉 https://safaleyeinthewild.safalgroup.com/. Note: Participants must submit an original photo alongside a mandatory 200-word statement link your image to conservation and education.