Uganda will join the global community in commemorating World Wildlife Day on March 3, 2026, with national celebrations in Entebbe, Wakiso District.
The event, themed “Plants in Conservation: Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Livelihoods and Heritage”, will recognize the critical role of plants in biodiversity, human well-being, and conservation.
Speaking ahead of the celebrations, Tourism Minister Tom Butime said the event is an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of plants and the role they play in livelihoods, health, and heritage.
“It is also a time to recognize the benefits that plants provide and the serious threats they face, despite their immense value,” Butime said.
He highlighted Uganda’s rich biodiversity, noting that the country is home to more than 50% of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population.
“Through cultivation, trade, processing, and sustainable use, communities, particularly women, derive critical income and nutrition from medicinal and aromatic plants,” he said.
He also pointed out the challenges facing conservation noting that unsustainable harvesting, overexploitation, habitat loss, land-use change, climate change, loss of traditional knowledge, weak regulation, and poor monitoring continue to threaten plant and animal species.
Despite these challenges, Butime emphasized the importance of conservation for both people and nature.
“Conservation is not a burden but an opportunity to protect biodiversity, preserve culture, and support rural livelihoods,” he said.
Traditional medicine continues to play a key role in Uganda, with around 80% of people in developing countries relying on plant-based remedies, according to the World Health Organisation.
Millions worldwide consume plant-based medicines annually, underscoring the global significance of medicinal and aromatic plants.
The celebrations will include exhibitions, awareness campaigns, and community engagements aimed at promoting sustainable use and preservation of Uganda’s rich plant and wildlife resources.
