By Atukwatse Ritah,
KAMPALA
Uganda will join the rest of the world on March 3, 2026 to celebrate United Nations World Wildlife Day, with national celebrations scheduled to take place in Entebbe, highlighting the critical role of medicinal and aromatic plants in conservation, health, and livelihoods.
The event will be officiated by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, according to officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), during a stakeholder engagement attended by senior government officials and conservation experts.
World Wildlife Day was proclaimed by the 68th United Nations General Assembly on December 20, 2013, and is observed annually to celebrate the world’s fauna and flora while raising awareness about the benefits of wildlife conservation to humanity.
Speaking to journalists , The Minister of Tourism, Wildlife & Antiquities, Col. (Rtd) Tom Butime noted that Uganda remains one of the top 10 most biodiverse countries globally, hosting more than 50% of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, 11% of global bird species, 39% of Africa’s mammal diversity, 19% of Africa’s amphibian species, 14% of reptile species, and over 1,249 documented butterfly species.
“Uganda’s biodiversity is not only a national pride but a global heritage that must be protected through sustainable use and inclusive conservation,” he said.
This year’s World Wildlife Day will be celebrated under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage and Livelihoods,” a focus that recognizes the deep connection between biodiversity conservation, human well-being, and sustainable development.
According to the World Health Organization, about 80% of people in developing countries, including Uganda, depend on plant-based traditional medicine for primary healthcare. Globally, over 60,000 plant species are used for medicinal, nutritional, and aromatic purposes, with the traditional medicine market valued at approximately USD 60 billion, growing at 7% annually.
However, the minister warned that nearly 90% of medicinal plants are still harvested from the wild, posing serious threats due to over exploitation, habitat loss, climate change, and weak regulation.
“The conservation of medicinal and aromatic plants is no longer optional; it is urgent and critical for our collective future,” the minister emphasized.
There will be a Marathon basically to raise money to support the families and children of the fallen rangers. Basically those who are killed by poachers while on their duty.
“We run to honor fallen rangers and secure education for the children they left behind.” Dr Musinguzi James the ED UWA noted,
He further noted that Uganda loses 6-10 rangers per year. This leaves their families helpless hence the need to support them. “Their sacrifice protects our wildlife, our support protects their children’s future.” Musinguzi said.
