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News From the Field

International Crane Foundation joins Ugandan Government to celebrate Fifth National Crane Festival

By Barbara Hamoonga  (Communications and Marketing Specialist, Africa Programmes –
African Crane Conservation Programme)

The Fifth National Crane Festival, held on 28 February 2025 in Uganda’s Isingiro District, marked a significant step in wetland conservation, with government officials announcing strengthened protections for critical habitats. Under the theme “Investing in wetland conservation for the benefit of people, cranes and other biodiversity,” the event brought together 300+ community members, conservationists and policymakers.

Fifth National Crane Festival

 

Key Policy Announcements

Isingiro District Chairman Mr. Alone Turahi revealed on behalf of Hon. Lt. Col (Rtd) Dr. Rwamirama Bright:

  • Strengthening wetland habitat protection frameworks
  • Supporting community-based conservation initiatives
  • Integrating conservation into district development plans
  • Enhancing enforcement of environmental regulations

“These commitments reflect our understanding that investing in nature is investing in our people and future,” stated Turahi.

Urgent Conservation Context

The festival highlighted dire challenges:

  • 80% decline in Grey Crowned Crane populations over 25 years
  • Ongoing wetland degradation threatening biodiversity
  • Need for sustainable livelihood alternatives

“This festival is a testament to Uganda’s conservation commitment,” said ICF’s Uganda Country Manager Patrick Engoru. “Together, we can ensure future generations witness cranes dancing across our landscapes.”

Fifth National Crane Festival

 

ICF/EWT Partnership Impact

Since 2020, the collaboration has:

  • Engaged 50+ communities in sustainable practices
  • Built government partnerships including with Ministry of Tourism
  • Established the festival as a flagship awareness event
  • Balanced wildlife preservation with human prosperity

Festival Highlights

The event featured:

  • Sustainable wetland management demonstrations
  • Success stories from community conservation initiatives
  • Networking for conservation financing opportunities
  • Awareness campaigns for Uganda’s cranes including the endangered Grey Crowned, Wattled, and Black Crowned species

The Endangered Wildlife Trust reaffirmed its commitment to crane conservation across Africa through such grassroots partnerships.

Fifth National Crane Festival

 

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