Uganda Baati Limited, through the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, has officially launched the 2026 edition of the Safal Eye in the Wild Competition, a regional initiative that uses photography as a tool for environmental conservation while supporting education across East Africa.
The launch attracted key stakeholders, including representatives from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), and the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), among others.
Since its inception, the Safal Eye in the Wild Competition has evolved into a flagship regional platform that harnesses the power of photography to advance environmental conservation and education across East and Southern Africa.
The initiative brings together professional photographers, amateurs, and young creatives to capture compelling visual stories that highlight the relationship between nature, communities, and sustainable development.
Beyond artistic expression, the competition seeks to create meaningful impact by supporting environmental awareness and funding education initiatives, including classroom construction and scholarships across the region.
Speaking at the launch, Uganda Baati's Head of External and Corporate Affairs, Jackie Tahakanizibwa, emphasized the transformative power of visual storytelling.
“At Uganda Baati, we believe that great photography does more than capture images; it captures stories, inspires action, and deepens our connection to the world around us. Through this competition, every image has the power to spark awareness and inspire us to protect our natural heritage,” she said.
Participants are invited to submit photographs that reflect conservation, nature, and community impact using either professional cameras or mobile devices. Entries will be uploaded through the official campaign platform and evaluated by an expert panel of judges based on creativity, originality, technical quality, and alignment with the competition theme, “Frame Your Future.”
Outstanding entries will be recognized at a prestigious red-carpet gala scheduled for July 17, 2026, where the region’s most impactful visual storytellers will be celebrated.
The competition offers attractive prizes, with the Gold Award winner receiving USD 3,000, the Silver Award USD 2,000, and the Bronze Award USD 1,000. Additional awards include the Public Choice Award and the Amateur/Minor Award, each carrying a cash prize of USD 500.
George Mubiru of the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation said the initiative goes beyond photography by creating opportunities for learning and community development.
“At the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, we believe that true impact happens at the intersection of environment, education, and community. This competition transforms photography into a force for learning, awareness, and opportunity for the next generation,” he said.
NEMA Assistant Commissioner for Environment Education and Advocacy, Wilbert Ikilai, described the initiative as a powerful platform for promoting environmental stewardship.
“The Safal Eye in the Wild initiative is a powerful reminder that environmental conservation begins with awareness. It inspires responsible stewardship and encourages all of us to protect the ecosystems that sustain our future,” he noted.
PSFU Chief Executive Officer Steven Asiimwe said the competition demonstrates how businesses can contribute to sustainable development beyond their core operations.
“This initiative demonstrates how the private sector can drive meaningful impact beyond business. It shows that sustainable development is best achieved through strong partnerships and shared responsibility,” Asiimwe said.
UMA Executive Director Dr. Ezra Muhumuza emphasized the importance of sustainability within the manufacturing sector, noting that the competition showcases how innovation and creativity can raise awareness and encourage more sustainable practices.
Launched in 2017, Safal Eye in the Wild has grown from an annual themed photography competition into a regional movement focused on education, sustainability, and long-term community impact.
