Avian Conservation Uganda Organises Bird Conservation Run for Sunday

Avian Conservation Uganda has organised a conservation run scheduled for Sunday, October 18, to raise awareness about the need to protect birds and preserve their natural habitats, particularly those of the Crested Crane.

The initiative aims to encourage public participation in bird conservation and highlight threats to bird populations and the environments in which they live.

The organisation’s leaders presented the official running T-shirt to the Minister of Culture, Heritage and Tourism, Dr Anthony Wamala, who also officially launched it.

Speaking at the launch, Wamala emphasised the importance of bird conservation, noting that some bird species are closely associated with the cultural identity of the Baganda.

“Protecting our environment also means preserving the significance of our cultural institutions and clans,” Wamala said.

He urged Ugandans to turn up in large numbers, saying proceeds from T-shirt sales would support efforts to conserve birds and their habitats, including wetlands, trees and forests.

Catherine Nakalule, a representative of Avian Conservation Uganda, said the initiative was conceived after the organisation observed that bird conservation was receiving insufficient attention despite declining populations and persistent threats to birds.

“We came up with this initiative after realising that bird conservation was not receiving enough attention and that bird populations were declining due to continued threats,” Nakalule said.

She encouraged the public to participate in the run and support efforts to protect birds and their habitats.

Each running T-shirt costs Shs35,000, and the event will start at Sheraton Hotel in Kampala on Sunday, October 18.

Organisers hope the run will mobilise greater public support for bird conservation and promote the protection of Uganda’s natural heritage.