Wildlife Ranger Challenge 2026 Hub

The 2026 Uganda Conservation Foundation regional Wildlife Ranger Challenge was one of the largest and most successful events held in Uganda to date, bringing together wildlife rangers, government, the diplomatic community, conservation partners, the private sector and supporters in Murchison Falls National Park.

Fifteen ranger teams from across Uganda competed for the Uganda Hub 2026 WRC 21 km title, running in full ranger kit and carrying weighted packs. As the sun rose, the rangers took to the trails through one of Uganda’s most spectacular wildlife landscapes.
The 2026 Challenge expanded participation, with new teams from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve and Naperatom Community Conservancy, together with the Karamoja Lion Champions. Women’s teams accounted for 35% of the competing teams, reflecting the growing participation of women in Uganda’s ranger and conservation community.
The ranger teams were joined by 100 supporting runners and walkers from the private sector, tourism industry, diplomatic community, government, conservation organisations and partners. A Young Ranger Team also participated, helping make the event one of Uganda’s largest regional WRC gatherings to date.

Senior attendees included Lilly Ajarova, Senior Presidential Advisor; George Owoysigire, representing the Permanent Secretary; Suzy Fox, Chair of the Uganda Conservation Foundation; Michael Keigwin, CEO of the Uganda Conservation Foundation; diplomatic representatives from the European Union, Sweden, Ireland and Denmark; and the British High Commissioner. Private-sector Managing Directors and senior representatives also attended, while Keith Roberts represented the Wildlife Ranger Challenge.
Safety and security were a major priority, with 45 UWA rangers deployed along the 21 km course to safeguard and account for participants throughout the event.

Despite strong competition, Kidepo did it again, securing the overall title for an exceptional fourth consecutive year.
At the finish line, breakfast was provided for everyone, bringing rangers, runners, partners and guests together after the Challenge. Celebrations continued later with the rangers’ after-party, where the Executive Director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority sponsored a bull roast for the rangers.

UCF extends its sincere thanks to the sponsors and supporters who made the event possible, including Nile Breweries Ltd, CFAO Mobility / Toyota Uganda, Marasa, Gorillo’s, Engineering Solutions (EngSol), Consolidated African Resources, Red Chilli, Experience Africa, Speke Holidays, City Ambulance, Murchison River Lodge and Around Africa Safaris.
Special thanks also go to Paraa Safari Lodge, Red Chilli, Pakuba Safari Lodge and Murchison River Lodge, and of course to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, for their hospitality and support throughout a great weekend. Particular recognition goes to Chief Warden Fred Kiiza and his team for the considerable organisation, logistics, security and operational support that ensured everyone was safe and accounted for.

The Wildlife Ranger Challenge is about far more than completing 21 kilometres. It recognises the professionalism, commitment and teamwork of Uganda’s wildlife rangers, while bringing together government, conservation organisations, tourism operators, businesses, diplomats, communities and supporters. Above all, the 2026 event demonstrated the power of the Challenge to bring people together in support of Uganda’s rangers, wildlife and protected areas.