USAGA Leads Profitable Launch of the World Youth Pageant for the Conservation of the Albertine Rift Endemics

The vibrant town of Kisoro played host to the official launch of the Global Youth Festival for the Conservation of the Albertine Rift Endemics, an event spearheaded by the Uganda Safari Guides Association (USAGA). This landmark occasion marks the beginning of a regional movement to empower youth, promote conservation awareness, and protect the unique biodiversity of the Albertine Rift.

The launch was an overwhelming success, bringing together a diverse coalition of conservation stakeholders, community leaders, and tourism professionals who share a united vision of sustainable development through youth engagement.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Kisoro District Local Government for their strong support and presence, and to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for their invaluable contribution—not only in the form of technical support, but also through their generous sponsorship of a Familiarization (FAM) trip that will precede the main festival. This FAM trip offers key players the opportunity to explore the region’s rich ecological and tourism offerings.

Special thanks also go to our conservation partner Bwindi Mgahinga Conservation Trust (BMCT) for their continued collaboration, and to the local guides associations from Rushaga, Nkuringo, Mgahinga, and Kisoro, whose participation demonstrated the strength and unity of community-based conservation actors.

We are grateful for the presence of hotel and lodge owners, who affirmed their commitment to supporting youth-focused conservation tourism. A special recognition goes to Virunga Hotel, which served as the official host of the launch and offered exceptional hospitality to all guests.

As part of the organizing team, Bird Uganda Safaris contributed essential logistical support, ensuring the smooth coordination of the event.

This festival, led by USAGA, is not just an event—it is a call to action. It is a platform to equip young people with skills in bird guiding, eco-tourism, storytelling, and environmental stewardship, while spotlighting the ecological importance of the Albertine Rift and the need to safeguard its endemic species.

With the successful launch now behind us, the stage is set for the main festival—a celebration of biodiversity, youth empowerment, and sustainable conservation. Together, we move forward with great optimism and unity.

USAGA thanks all partners and looks forward to continued collaboration as we prepare to welcome participants from Uganda, across Africa, and around the world.