Uganda Baati Limited, a member of the Safal Group, through the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, has launched the 2026 edition of the Safal Eye in the Wild Photography Competition, a regional initiative that harnesses the power of photography to promote environmental conservation while supporting education across East Africa.
The launch brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), and other partners committed to sustainability and community development.
Over the years, the Safal Eye in the Wild Competition has evolved into a flagship regional platform that uses visual storytelling to advance environmental conservation and education across East and Southern Africa. The initiative brings together professional, amateur, and young photographers to capture compelling images that highlight the relationship between nature, communities, and sustainable development.
Beyond artistic expression, every photograph submitted contributes to a broader social impact agenda by raising environmental awareness and supporting educational initiatives, including the construction of classrooms and the provision of scholarships across the region.
Speaking at the launch, Jackie Tahakanizibwa, Head of External and Corporate Affairs at Uganda Baati Limited, emphasized the transformative role of photography in driving positive change:
“At Uganda Baati, we believe that great photography does more than capture images—it captures stories, inspires action, and deepens our connection to the world around us. Through this competition, every image has the power to spark awareness and inspire us to protect our natural heritage.”
How the Competition Works
Participants are invited to submit original photographs that reflect themes of conservation, nature, and community impact using either professional cameras or mobile devices.
Entries will be submitted through the official campaign platform and evaluated by an expert panel of judges based on:
Creativity and originality
Technical quality
Alignment with the 2026 theme, “Frame Your Future”
The most outstanding entries will be recognized at a prestigious red-carpet gala awards ceremony scheduled for 17 July 2026, celebrating the region’s most impactful visual storytellers.
Awards
Gold Award – USD 3,000
Silver Award – USD 2,000
Bronze Award – USD 1,000
Public Choice Award – USD 500
Amateur/Minor Award – USD 500
Foundation and Partner Perspectives
The initiative is delivered in collaboration with strategic partners committed to sustainability, education, and inclusive development.
George Mubiru, representing the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, highlighted the programme’s broader impact:
“At the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, we believe that true impact happens at the intersection of environment, education, and community. This competition transforms photography into a force for learning, awareness, and opportunity for the next generation.”
Mr. Wilbert Ikilai, Assistant Commissioner for Environmental Education and Advocacy at NEMA, noted:
“The Safal Eye in the Wild initiative is a powerful reminder that environmental conservation begins with awareness. It inspires responsible stewardship and encourages all of us to protect the ecosystems that sustain our future.”
Mr. Steven Asiimwe, Chief Executive Officer of the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), said:
“This initiative demonstrates how the private sector can drive meaningful impact beyond business. It shows that sustainable development is best achieved through strong partnerships and shared responsibility.”
Dr. Ezra Muhumuza, Executive Director of the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), added:
“As manufacturers, sustainability is central to the future of our industry. This competition demonstrates how innovation and creativity can amplify awareness and inspire more sustainable practices.”
Launched in 2017, the Safal Eye in the Wild Competition has grown into a regional movement, evolving from an annual themed contest into a long-term impact platform anchored in education, conservation, and sustainability.
This latest edition reinforces the Safal Group’s commitment to using creativity as a catalyst for addressing environmental and social challenges while empowering communities and shaping a more sustainable future.
How to Participate
Photographers across the region are invited to submit their entries through the official campaign platform:
https://safaleyeinthewild.safalgroup.com
Submission Requirement: Participants must submit an original photograph accompanied by a mandatory 200-word statement explaining how the image relates to conservation and education.
