The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has officially announced the 2026 edition of the Uganda Wildlife Half Marathon, a flagship event set to take place on March 1st in Kampala. More than just an athletic competition, this "marathon for a cause" serves as the primary fundraiser for the Fallen Rangers Education Fund, currently providing life-changing academic support to nearly 150 children of rangers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. By blending professional athletics with a deep commitment to conservation welfare, Uganda is inviting the global community to run for the guardians of its natural heritage.

THE FULL STORY In the misty forests of Bwindi and the sweeping savannas of Murchison Falls, the men and women of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) stand as the final line of defense for some of the planet's most endangered species. It is a noble calling, but one that often comes with a devastating price. To honor those who have fallen while protecting the "Pearl of Africa," the UWA is preparing for the 8th edition of the Uganda Wildlife Half Marathon—a powerful intersection of sports tourism, community resilience, and heartfelt tribute.

Scheduled for March 1, 2026, at Kitante Primary School in Kampala, the marathon serves as the grand "curtain-raiser" for International Wildlife Day. Under the poignant theme, "Running to Educate Children of the Fallen Rangers," the event seeks to bridge the gap between conservation and the welfare of the families left behind. This initiative is the heartbeat of the Fallen Rangers Education Fund, a dedicated program that ensures the orphans of rangers, whether lost to poachers, wild animal encounters, or accidents in the field, receive a full education from primary school through to university.

The impact of this race is best seen in the success stories it has already authored. Among this year’s graduates is Allan Kelechi, a beneficiary who is set to receive his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, a feat that seemed impossible after the loss of his father. With nearly 150 children currently enrolled in the program, the 2026 marathon aims to raise the critical funds needed to sustain this academic lifeline, proving that the sacrifices of Uganda’s conservation heroes will never be forgotten by the nation they served.

The event itself is designed to be as inclusive as it is competitive. Professional athletes will battle for points under the standards of the Uganda Athletics Federation in the 21km and 10km categories, while thousands of "cause runners"—families, tourists, and corporate teams—will take part in the 5km fun run. To further integrate the next generation into the conservation movement, primary and secondary schools are being encouraged to field teams, fostering a sense of national pride and environmental responsibility among Uganda’s youth.

Corporate giants are also stepping up, with sponsorship packages ranging from 3 million to 10 million Ugandan shillings, signaling a growing trend of "corporate conservation" within the East African business community. This collective effort comes at a time of significant progress for UWA, including the successful merger with the Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre (UWEC) and the historic translocation of rhinos back to the Ajai Wildlife Reserve.

As runners lace up their shoes to navigate the streets of Kampala this March, they aren't just chasing personal bests; they are carrying the legacy of those who died protecting the wild. In a world where wildlife crime remains a constant threat, Uganda is showing that the strongest weapon in the fight for conservation is a community that stands together to protect its own, both the animals in the parks and the families who guard them.

Africa News

Uganda Wildlife Half Marathon Returns: Running for the Families of Fallen Heroes