Uganda will join the rest of the world to commemorate this year’s 2025 United Nations World Wildlife Day (WWD) with the country’s national celebrations scheduled for March 3 in Lira District.
The theme for this year’s celebration is;“Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet ” underscoring the urgent need for sustainable financial solutions to support conservation efforts.
As one of the world’s most biodiverse countries, Uganda boasts 53.9% of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, 11% of global bird species, and 8% of global mammal diversity.
The country’s rich natural heritage is not only a source of pride but also a key driver of tourism, which contributes over 5.5% of Uganda’s GDP and supports thousands of livelihoods, particularly in rural areas.
Focus on Conservation Financing
Despite Uganda’s conservation successes, including the rebound of elephant, rhino, giraffe, and buffalo populations, the sector faces financial shortfalls.
Challenges such as human-wildlife conflicts, poaching, climate change, and habitat degradation threaten progress.
The Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities is pushing for increased budget allocation, public-private partnerships, and innovative conservation financing models.
The highlight of this year’s WWD celebrations will be the launch of a 10-year Strategic Action Plan for Large Carnivore Conservation, aimed at ensuring viable populations of lions, cheetahs, and leopards by 2034.
“My Ministry remains steadfast in supporting wildlife conservation through justifying increased budget allocation for wildlife protection and park management; promoting Public-private partnerships to invest in sustainable conservation; Promoting inclusive and community-based conservation initiatives to ensure local participation, and leveraging local, regional and international partnerships to secure increased investments in wildlife conservation,” tourism minister Tom Butime said.
Activities Leading Up to WWD 2025
A series of events will take place ahead of the main celebrations, including:
• A Conservation Conference (Feb 24, Kampala): Discussions on sustainable financing strategies and the launch of the Large Carnivore Conservation Plan.
• School Competitions (Feb 27-28): Poetry, essays, and art contests promoting wildlife awareness among students.
• A Hackathon for Tertiary Institutions (Feb 13): Encouraging youth innovation in addressing human-wildlife conflicts.
• National Wildlife Marathon (March 2, Lira): Raising awareness and fundraising for wildlife rangers’ education.
• Cranes Festival (Isingiro): Spotlighting the conservation of Uganda’s national bird.
• National Conservation Awards (March 3): Recognizing individuals and organizations championing wildlife conservation.
A Call to Action
As Uganda marks World Wildlife Day 2025, Minister of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities, Hon. Tom R. Butiime, calls on all stakeholders—local communities, private investors, and development partners—to play an active role in conservation.
“Sustainable conservation financing is not just a government responsibility—it is a collective duty. Let us invest in wildlife conservation for both people and the planet,” he urged.
The celebrations in Lira promise to be a landmark moment in Uganda’s conservation journey, reinforcing the country’s commitment to safeguarding its natural heritage for future generations.
