UWA Wants Musicians to Promote Wildlife Conservation Ahead of AFCON 2027

What the report says

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is asking musicians, entertainers and other creatives to help promote wildlife conservation and tourism as Uganda prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. According to Nile Post, the authority believes artists’ public reach can be used to highlight national parks, wildlife, cultural heritage and other attractions to local and international audiences.

The appeal was made at a press briefing ahead of the Safari Beats “Riddim and Roar Experience,” set for December 19, 2026, at Lugogo Cricket Oval in Kampala. Ivan Kakoza, UWA’s assistant commissioner for tourism and hospitality, said celebrity influence could support conservation messaging and encourage visitors to explore Uganda beyond football-related events. He also pointed to entertainment-led visits to conservation sites as a way to draw attention to wildlife initiatives.

UWA used a recent visit by Jamaican dancehall artist Spice as an example of how performers can support conservation campaigns. The authority said Uganda currently has 60 rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and encouraged people, companies and supporters to take part in a rhino-naming initiative that helps fund protection efforts.

The article also quoted event organisers and tourism officials who said the concert-style experience is intended to boost awareness of Uganda’s scenic sites and support domestic tourism. With AFCON 2027 approaching, UWA appears to be positioning entertainment partnerships as part of a wider strategy to market the country’s tourism offering to a larger audience.