Cheers and smiles blended well at this year’s wildlife day at Kagorogoro in the Kyejonjo district of western Uganda. This inviting mood ushered prominent conservationists to the podium as they picked up accolades for their contribution to Uganda’s wildlife conservation.
The Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, who represented President Yoweri Museveni as the chief guest, presented the awards to the winners at the activities organised to commemorate the UN World Wildlife Day on March 3, 2024. The awards include plaques, certificates and the winners are also inscribed on the conservation heroes list of Uganda.
In her speech, Nabbanja pointed out that collaboration was important to enhance the conservation of wildlife and their natural habitats.
Uganda commemorated the UN Day for Wildlife with the theme “Tech and youth for wildlife conservation.” During the celebrations, people showcased innovative technological interventions aimed at safeguarding wildlife, including measures to address human-wildlife conflicts.
Dr. Taddeo Rusoke, a senior lecturer at Nkumba University and author of a book on human-wildlife conflicts, received recognition for his exceptional contribution. Communities, managers, and policymakers can use his book “Buffer Crop Farming Against Wild Animal Damage in Uganda” to find solutions to human-wildlife conflicts and promote co-existence.
Rusoke described the achievement as a milestone in his career. He also pointed out that behind this achievement were many passionate people working to conserve the environment. He says that the award also belongs to them.
Rusoke has a doctorate in natural resource management, a Master of Science in Environmental Health, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Wildlife Management Sciences from Nkumba University, Uganda.
Dr. James Musinguzi received the 2024 Wildlife Conservation Education Award at the same ceremony. “Congratulations, Dr. Musinguzi James, upon the Wildlife Conservation Education Award,” stated Mbarara University of Science and Technology on their X formerly twitter.
Musinguzi’s Award highlights the critical role of governance in biodiversity conservation. He also pointed out that studies have proved that governance is the most important aspect of biodiversity conservation institutions.
Dr. Musinguzi’s doctorate focused on governance. This is the main reason why he has been able to transform the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre into a role-model institution across the entire African continent.
Olivia Nakalembe, the director of communications at Karibu Travel Magazine, walked away with the Wildlife Conservation Media Award 2024.
“My journey began in a media house primarily focused on political reporting. Transforming entrenched mind-sets and infusing new life into traditional newsroom desks was no small feat. It was a task that tested my resolve and passion for these often-overlooked subjects,” says Nakalembe.
She added, “The turning point came when key stakeholders and the broader audience started to heed our call. The accolade was not just humbling but also a clarion call for the continued elevation of wildlife reporting.
Through unwavering commitment and a vision for change, I have demonstrated my ability to revolutionise wildlife reporting in Uganda, ensuring that it receives the attention and respect it so rightly deserves.”
Wildlife stars 2024
The awardees and their respective awards are the Sustainable Protected Area Management Award- Prof. Edward Rugumayo, Wildlife Havens Award- Achilles Achilles Byaruhanga, Sustainable Eco-tourism Award-David Bakeine, Species Recovery Award- Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust, Human-Wildlife Harmonious Living Award- Dr. Taddeo Rusoke and Rwabuhinga Richard. Others are Wildlife Research Award- Dr. Robert Kityo, Wildlife Conservation Education Award-Dr. Adalbert Aine-Omucunguzi and Dr. James Musinguzi, Counter Poaching and Trafficking Award- Budongo Conservation Field Station, Wildlife Conservation Media Award-Amumpaire Moses Bismac and Olivia Nakalembe.
