UWA marks Zoo Educators Day with renewed call for biodiversity protection

In Summary: Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is using International Zoo Educators Day to renew its commitment to conservation awareness through school outreach, community engagement and visitor education. The campaign comes as Uganda faces growing environmental pressures, including habitat destruction and climate change, despite being home to thousands of plant and animal species.

Kampala, Uganda — Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Thursday joined zoos and aquariums in more than 30 countries to mark International Zoo Educators Day, highlighting the role of conservation education in protecting biodiversity and inspiring communities to take action.

Through its conservation education centres, the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) and Mbale Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (MWEC), UWA is using the annual observance to recognise educators who engage schoolchildren, tourists and community groups on the importance of protecting wildlife and natural habitats.

The day, observed annually on the second Thursday of November, highlights the contribution of education to building sustainable futures and encouraging conservation action beyond the boundaries of zoos and aquariums.

This year’s theme, “One Planet, Many Voices: Educating for Biodiversity and Connection,” calls for greater use of storytelling, workshops, community outreach and shared learning experiences to strengthen public understanding of biodiversity.

UWA says conservation educators play an important role in connecting people with nature, using engaging stories and practical learning to demonstrate why protecting the environment matters.

Uganda’s biodiversity faces growing threats

Uganda is recognised for its rich biodiversity, with close to 19,000 recorded plant and animal species. The country is home to approximately 10 per cent of the world’s bird species and seven per cent of its mammal species.

Its diverse ecosystems include tropical rainforests, savannas and wetlands, many of which are protected through national parks and wildlife reserves.

However, this natural wealth faces growing threats from habitat destruction and climate change, putting pressure on wildlife populations and the ecosystems that sustain them.

UWA says addressing these challenges requires collective action, with conservation education helping communities understand their role in protecting the country’s natural heritage.

The authority’s engagement through UWEC and MWEC is intended to encourage a stronger conservation culture, particularly among young people, while extending awareness to visitors and surrounding communities.