Uganda Baati opens entries for Safal Eye in the Wild photo contest

KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda Baati Limited has opened entries for the 2026 Safal Eye in the Wild photography competition, a regional initiative designed to promote environmental conservation and support education across East Africa.

The competition is organized through the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, the company’s social development arm. This year’s contest, themed Frame Your Future, invites professional, amateur and youth photographers to submit images that highlight the relationship between nature, community and sustainable development.

Every photograph submitted contributes to the foundation’s efforts to fund scholarships and the construction of classrooms across the region.

Jackie Tahakanizibwa, head of external and corporate affairs at Uganda Baati, said the competition aims to use visual storytelling to deepen the public’s connection to the environment and inspire the protection of natural heritage.

The launch event included representatives from the National Environment Management Authority, the Private Sector Foundation Uganda and the Uganda Manufacturers Association.

Wilbert Ikilai, assistant commissioner for environment education and advocacy at NEMA, said the initiative serves as a reminder that conservation begins with awareness. Steven Asiimwe, chief executive of the PSFU, noted the contest demonstrates the private sector’s ability to drive social impact through strategic partnerships.

The competition, which launched in 2017, offers several cash prizes for top performers. The gold award winner will receive 3,000 dollars, with 2,000 dollars and 1,000 dollars designated for silver and bronze winners, respectively. Additional 500 dollar prizes will be awarded for the public choice and amateur categories.

Participants can submit original photos taken via professional cameras or mobile devices through the official campaign platform at safaleyeinthewild.safalgroup.com. Each entry must be accompanied by a 200-word statement linking the image to conservation and education.

A panel of judges will review the submissions based on creativity, technical quality and thematic alignment. Winners will be recognized during a gala scheduled for July 17.

Uganda Baati Limited, a member of the Safal Group, has operated in Uganda since 1964. Its philanthropic arm, the Safal Uganda Baati Foundation, was established in August 2024 to focus on sustainable community empowerment.