Greater Masindi journalists trained in wildlife reporting
“You amplify our voices. We rely on you to help the public understand the need to protect our biodiversity,” he told participants.
Masindi: Over 40 journalists from the Greater Masindi have been equipped with specialized skills in wildlife reporting, following a half-day training held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Kolping Hotel Masindi.
Organized by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in partnership with the Greater-Masindi Media Practitioners’ Association (GMEPA), the workshop aimed at enhancing journalistic capacity to report effectively on conservation and wildlife-related issues.
GMEPA comprises journalists from Masindi, Buliisa, and Kiryandongo districts.
Bashir Hangi, the UWA spokesperson, underscored the media’s pivotal role in wildlife conservation. “As UWA, we cannot work in isolation. The media is essential in informing the public about the importance of conserving wildlife and the tourism potential our country holds,” he said.
“This engagement was initiated after GMEPA approached us for support in building reporting skills. We responded immediately because the media is a key partner in our work.”
Frederick Kiiza Kayanja, Chief Warden for Murchison Falls National Park, echoed these sentiments, describing journalists as ambassadors of wildlife conservation.
“You amplify our voices. We rely on you to help the public understand the need to protect our biodiversity,” he told participants.
GMEPA President Yosam Gucwaki explained that the association sought the training to help journalists gain deeper knowledge of Uganda’s wildlife and the pressing conservation challenges.
“We want our members to tell impactful stories that are investigative, ethical, and engaging,” he noted, adding that the collaboration with UWA is essential for long-term conservation efforts.
Augustus Bigirwenkya from Radio7 Uganda called on UWA to consider providing grants to journalists interested in wildlife conservation reporting. “This would not only raise awareness but also promote local tourism,” he said.
Makolo Mulumba of UBC West Radio praised UWA’s ongoing engagement with journalists and local communities, which he said has led to a significant reduction in poaching. He, however, raised concern over cross-border poaching by individuals from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Responding to the funding appeal, Hangi acknowledged current financial constraints but hinted at the possibility of future grants.
He also encouraged journalists to actively report on conservation issues, noting that UWA awards outstanding wildlife stories with Shs5 million and a one-year free entry to all national parks.
The event concluded with a tour of Murchison Falls National Park, offering journalists a first-hand look at Uganda’s diverse wildlife and conservation efforts.
Do you have an advertisement or article you want to publish? Mail us at theugreports@gmail.com or WhatsApp +256757022363.
