Communities living around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Kanungu District, southwestern Uganda, have turned to sports as a platform to promote biodiversity conservation ahead of World Environment Day 2025.
The initiative was officially launched on Sunday with a friendly football match between the Change a Life Bwindi football team and the Mpungu Subcounty Select team. Women also participated in a spirited tug-of-war competition at the Mpungu Sub county playground in Kinkiizi West Constituency.
Ms Christina Katushabe, founder of Change a Life Bwindi, a community-based organization focused on linking local communities to the park through empowerment, education, and conservation, explained the significance of the initiative.
“Sports for Biodiversity Conservation is a dynamic project that uses the power of sports to raise awareness about environmental protection, particularly focusing on biodiversity and plastic pollution,” she said.
She emphasized that sports have the power to unite people for a greater cause.
“Through sports, we break down barriers. We gather not just to compete but to learn, connect, and commit. During this event, we’re not only playing games, we’re sharing knowledge, collecting plastic waste, promoting reusable materials, and having open conversations about how each of us can live more sustainably.”
According to Ms Katushabe, the initiative is not just a tournament but a movement.
“This year, our event aligns with World Environment Day, which is themed ‘United Against Plastic’. Plastic pollution is a silent killer, it clogs waterways, harms wildlife, and threatens our health. Yet, many people still don’t understand how dangerous it is.”
She added “We want participants to leave not just with memories of a good game, but with a renewed mindset, understanding that biodiversity isn’t only about forests and animals, but also about our food, water, and future.”
Addressing the need to engage all segments of society, she posed a critical question:
“How do we make this message real and relatable? How do we reach the youth, mothers, elders, and everyday people who may not attend a conservation meeting but will come for a football match?”
Ms Katushabe also revealed plans to expand the initiative into schools as a means of teaching young people about conservation.
“Our vision is clear: a future where local communities are not just beneficiaries of conservation efforts but active leaders in them. We believe that through unity, creativity, and shared purpose, even something as simple as a ball can carry a message that changes lives. We’re not just playing for fun; we’re playing for the planet, for a better tomorrow, and for biodiversity.” She said.
Sgt. Major Augustine Muhangi, who oversees tourism activities in the Ruhiija sector, said the initiative will aid Uganda Wildlife Authority in its conservation efforts.
“Environmental conservation is not a one-man job. The involvement of neighboring communities through this initiative is essential. Environment is for all of us, and we all have an obligation to protect it generously. Bringing the conservation message directly to the people makes it more effective.” He said.
The Community Conservation Ranger (CCR) for the Ruhiija sector, Mr Peter Muhangi warned residents against encroaching on park land for farming.
“In the past, residents from Muramba Village cultivated millet inside the park, which is illegal. If caught, offenders will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with park regulations,” he said.
The female district councilor representing Mpungu Sub County, Ms Medius Kiconco raised concerns about plastic pollution.
“Improper disposal of plastic waste is contributing to soil degradation, erosion, and deforestation. I urge the sub county chief to allocate an area for waste disposal. Currently, we lack a garbage collection center, which has worsened plastic pollution. I also urge residents to stop burning plastic, it poses serious health risks, especially to pregnant women.” She said.
The Mpungu Sub county Chief, Mr Ambrose Atusasire welcomed the initiative and emphasized the role of sports in environmental education.
“Sports attract crowds, making them an effective communication tool. This platform enables us as local leaders to share conservation messages in a way that’s engaging and relatable. It will also contribute to the socio-economic development of our community.” He said.
Originally slated for June 5, 2025, the World Environment Day celebrations have been rescheduled to June 25 to avoid a scheduling conflict with the State of the Nation Address. President Yoweri Museveni is expected to preside over the event as the chief guest.
