UWA Turns to Influencers to Encourage More Ugandans to Visit National Parks

What the report says

Watchdog Uganda reported that the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has begun an “Open Park Days Influencer Campaign” aimed at encouraging more Ugandans to visit national parks and engage with wildlife conservation. According to the report, the campaign was launched ahead of Open Park Days, with an initial group of content creators setting off for Murchison Falls National Park after the flag-off.

The influencers are expected to produce online content, including images, videos and personal accounts, to promote Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes and park experiences to domestic audiences. Watchdog Uganda reported that Open Park Days are scheduled for 25–27 September and will give Ugandans an opportunity to visit selected protected areas, including Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo and Kidepo Valley national parks, as well as Ajai, Pian Upe, Katonga and Toro Semuliki wildlife reserves.

At the launch, UWA Acting Executive Director Charles Tumwesigye urged participating creators to work with UWA staff so that their stories about the parks are accurate and authentic, according to the article. Uganda Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Juliana Kagwa also called on influencers to act as ambassadors for the country’s tourism potential, and the report said UTB provided vehicles to support campaign activities.

UWA Acting Commissioner for Tourism and Business Development Dorcus Rukundo encouraged young people to take greater interest in domestic tourism. The campaign matters because Uganda’s protected areas are central to conservation and tourism, while domestic visitation can broaden public support for wildlife protection and reduce reliance on international tourists.