Uganda has officially launched preparations for World Wildlife Day 2026, with celebrations set to take place on 3rd March 2026 at the Entebbe Botanical Gardens.

The announcement was made during a media launch held at the Uganda Media Centre, where the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) revealed a packed calendar of conservation-focused events leading up to the national celebrations.

Activities Leading to World Wildlife Day 2026 in Uganda

According to UWA, activities have already begun and will run through February into early March, bringing together students, conservationists, athletes, tourism leaders, and the general public.

The activities started today with the official media launch, and will continue with schools’ conservation competitions designed to engage young Ugandans in wildlife protection.

Key Events Schedule for World Wildlife Day 2026 Uganda

The activities lined up include:

- Primary and secondary schools’ conservation competitions on 23rd and 27th February

- Tertiary and university students’ conservation competitions on 25th February

- Conservation Media Awards on 25th February

- National Crane Festival on 24th February at Masaka Liberation Grounds

- National Wildlife Conservation Conference on 26th February

- Wildlife Conservation Marathon on 1st March at Kitante Primary School

- Main World Wildlife Day celebrations on 3rd March at Entebbe Botanical Gardens, featuring conservation awards, exhibitions, and the main ceremony

UWA confirmed that the March 3rd event will be the grand climax of the national celebrations, drawing conservation partners and stakeholders from across the country.

World Wildlife Day 2026 Theme in Uganda Announced

The Minister of State for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Martin Mugarra, invited Ugandans to actively participate in the national celebrations.

The theme for the 2026 celebrations was announced as:

“Medicinal and Aromantic plants: conservation Health, Heritage and Livelihood.”

The Minister urged the public to unite in protecting plant species that contribute to medicine, culture, and sustainable livelihoods.

President Museveni to Be Chief Guest at World Wildlife Day 2026

Uganda’s World Wildlife Day celebrations are expected to attract national attention, as the Chief Guest will be:

H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda

The presence of the Head of State highlights the importance of wildlife and biodiversity conservation to Uganda’s tourism economy and national development.

UWA to Diversify Tourism Products with Botanical Modern Trails

During the media launch, the Executive Director (ED) of UWA also announced that the authority is expanding tourism offerings.

Speaking at the launch, the ED confirmed that UWA is diversifying tourism products, including the introduction of:

Botanical modern trails

This move aligns with the 2026 theme emphasizing medicinal and aromatic plants, while also positioning Uganda as a stronger destination for eco-tourism and botanical tourism experiences.

Uganda Wildlife Half Marathon 2026 Officially Launched

In another major highlight, the Minister of State for Tourism, Martin Mugarra, together with the Executive Director of UWA, the CEO of the Uganda Tourism Board, UWA national athletes, and Miss Tourism Uganda, officially launched the:

Uganda Wildlife Half Marathon 2026

The marathon is aimed at supporting a deeply meaningful cause, helping children affected by the loss of wildlife protectors.

According to the announcement, the initiative seeks to support and educate the children of fallen rangers, recognizing the sacrifice made by conservation officers who protect Uganda’s wildlife heritage.

Marathon Kits Ready as Public Registration Opens

UWA confirmed that the marathon preparations are already underway, and registration is open.

“The kits are now ready, get yours today.”

This is expected to increase participation from runners, conservation supporters, corporate sponsors, and tourism stakeholders.

Why World Wildlife Day 2026 Matters for Uganda

World Wildlife Day has become a major platform for promoting wildlife protection, eco-tourism, and environmental awareness. With Uganda hosting celebrations at the historic Entebbe Botanical Gardens, the 2026 event is expected to spotlight the country’s biodiversity while building momentum around conservation education, tourism innovation, and sustainable livelihoods.

From school competitions to national festivals and marathons, Uganda’s World Wildlife Day 2026 celebrations reflect a national push to protect wildlife, preserve ecosystems, and promote conservation-driven tourism.