In a landmark effort to promote conservation communication and enhance Uganda’s tourism sector, the Uganda Wildlife Research and Training Institute (UWRTI) has launched the country’s first-ever wildlife filming training program.
The three-week course, which began on Friday, June 20, at the UWRTI campus in Kasese, is being conducted in partnership with Kent State University, USA, and Ravenswood Media, Chicago.
The initiative brings together participants from tourism ministry agencies, selected media houses, and wildlife and tourism training institutions across Uganda. The hands-on training focuses on field cinematography, storytelling, camera operations, drone usage, and video editing—all tailored to wildlife conservation messaging.
Dave McGowan, a veteran filmmaker with Ravenswood Media and lead trainer, emphasized the importance of the skills being imparted:
“This training will equip you with skills, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to wildlife conservation. You’ll learn to capture the majesty of Uganda’s wildlife in ways that inspire global audiences.”
UWRTI Principal Robert Baluku urged participants to embrace the opportunity and leverage the training for both conservation impact and personal growth.
“Videography speaks louder than any other form of communication,” Baluku said. “Use these skills to generate income and to tell powerful stories—about human-wildlife conflict, wildlife health, adaptability, and more. We thank the government and the Ministry of Tourism for sponsoring this timely initiative.”
He encouraged participants to create localized, impactful content in native languages, enabling communities to better appreciate Uganda’s rich biodiversity and tourism potential.
The training was inspired by a real-life story shared by McGowan during a previous visit to Uganda—of a grieving gorilla burying its young.
“That moment, had it been captured on film, would have moved the world,” said training coordinator Emmanuel Okech. “This training ensures that such stories are never missed again.”
Milligan Babulya, a UWRTI student of Wildlife Management, expressed optimism about acquiring new skills.
“I’ve always used my camera to record wildlife, but now I hope to learn editing and professional storytelling techniques to share more compelling narratives with the world,” she said.
The training runs until July 15 and marks a new chapter in Uganda’s efforts to blend digital storytelling with conservation and tourism development.
