International Crane Foundation Joins Ugandan Government to Celebrate Fifth National Crane Festival

CONTACT: Barbara Hamoonga, Communications & Marketing Specialist, +260977425015

Uganda, Isingiro – Feb. 28, 2025. The International Crane Foundation joined the Uganda Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities and Isingiro District Local Government, to celebrate the Fifth National Crane Festival under the theme “Investing in wetland conservation for the benefit of people, cranes, and other biodiversity.”

The festival, which was held at Isingiro District Local Government Headquarters, Isozi cell, Rwekubo Ward earlier this week aimed to highlight the critical importance of wetland conservation while promoting sustainable development initiatives.

The event brought together community members, conservation groups, government officials, development partners, and academic institutions. It serves as a platform for raising awareness about crane and wetland conservation while celebrating successful community-based conservation initiatives. The festival featured practical demonstrations of sustainable wetland management practices and created networking opportunities for conservation financing.

As part of the pre-festival activities for the crane festival, we brought together young conservation champions through sports and educational competitions at the Karungi Primary School playground.

Katereera, Karungi, and Nyamitsindo schools competed in football and netball tournaments, with participants proudly receiving medals featuring the International Crane Foundation logo.

Students showcased their artistic talents, creating stunning drawings of cranes and their wetland homes. The best pieces were later recognized on the main festival day! A poetry competition and school quiz further highlighted the students’ deep understanding of wetland conservation.

“I am pleased to announce that the Government is working on strengthening policy frameworks to: enhance protection of critical wetland habitats, support community-based conservation initiatives, integrate conservation priorities into district development plans, and strengthen enforcement of environmental regulations,” revealed the Isingiro District Chairman, Mr. Alone Turahi (LCV) who was standing in for the Chief Guest, Hon. Lt. Col (Rtd) Dr. Rwamirama Bright, the Minister of Animal Industry and Fisheries, as he officiated the event.

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

“The Fifth National Crane Festival represents more than just a celebration—it’s a testament to Uganda’s commitment to conservation and sustainable development. As we witness the alarming 80% decline in Grey Crowned Crane populations over the past 25 years, this festival serves as a crucial platform for uniting communities, policymakers, and conservation partners in protecting these magnificent birds and their wetland habitats.

“Together, we can ensure that future generations will continue to witness the dance of the cranes across Uganda’s landscapes,” stated International Crane Foundation Uganda Country Manager, Patrick Engoru.

A major highlight was the recognition of six schools we support from Lwengo, Mbarara, Rukiga, and Isingiro districts, each receiving a commemorative plaque presented by the Guest of Honor.

Since establishing its presence in Uganda in January 2020, the International Crane Foundation established a strong regional presence with offices in Kampala and Mbarara and focused on protecting the Endangered Grey Crowned Cranes and their critical wetland habitats.

Over the years, the Foundation has engaged local communities in sustainable conservation practices, developed partnerships with government institutions, including the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, implemented community-based conservation programs that balance wildlife preservation with human prosperity and created the annual Crane Festival as a flagship event for conservation awareness and community engagement.

The Foundation will continue to invest in wetland conservation for the benefit of people, cranes, and other biodiversity.