The sun had barely risen when over 18 teams of wildlife rangers, community scouts, and teams from supporting organizations from across Uganda gathered at the starting line in the heart of Uganda’s Murchison Falls National Park. The air buzzed with anticipation as these guardians of nature prepared to tackle the grueling 21-kilometer half-marathon. To guard wildlife from poachers, the race is designed to mimic the daily rigors of ranger life, with participants carrying 22-kilogram backpacks, simulating the heavy gear they often shoulder on patrols.
As some of the participants did last minute stretches on September 21, and tightened their laces, there was a sight not so common at a marathon start line – a weighing scale; the rules required each participant to verify that his previously packed and weighed backpack is 22kg before the race began, and at the finish line.
This wasn’t just any race. It was the 2024 Wildlife Ranger Challenge last month, an event that has quickly become a symbol of dedication and unity in African conservation efforts. Wildlife Ranger Challenge is a global event organized by Tusk and The Game Rangers Association of Africa GRAA, gathering over 150 ranger teams from over 100 protected areas across Africa, and several supporters from across the globe.
Teams from Uganda’s largest national parks as well as supporters surged forward, their determination palpable as the starting gun fired. last year’s champions include “kidepo warriors” who set a blistering pace but they weren’t alone in their quest for victory.
The Kidepo Valley National Park team successfully defended their title, crossing the finish line first once again in 2 hrs 28 mins, holding hands as a united force. After finishing near the bottom last year, hot on their heels was the Kibale National Park team which made an inspiring comeback securing their spot on the podium with a fantastic time of 2h 45m. The hosts, the Murchison Falls National Park team crossed the line in third place with a strong finish, holding off stiff competition from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
The performance of the women’s teams was the most spring sight. These female rangers shattered expectations by competing on the same challenging course as their male counterparts. Completing the course in just 2 hours and 58 minutes, the Kidepo Valley National Park women’s team set a new benchmark.
In attendance, this year’s Wildlife Ranger Challenge attracted significant attention, with notable figures such as Maurice Kirya, the German Ambassador to Uganda, and the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s Communications Manager. Since its inception in 2020, the event has been steadily growing in prominence and has now expanded to include rangers from over 100 protected areas across more than 20 African countries.
The atmosphere shifted from intense competition to jubilant celebration. Rangers, exhausted but exhilarated, gathered for a well-deserved brunch, swapping stories of their experiences on the course as the last runners crossed the finish line. The air was filled with laughter and camaraderie as competitors from different parks and organizations mingled, united by their shared passion for conservation.
A series of speeches commenced following the meal with conservation leaders and government officials praising the rangers’ dedication and highlighting the importance of their work. As they were presented to the top performers, the prize-giving ceremony was a moment of pride for all involved, with trophies and medals gleaming in the midday sun. The Kidepo Warriors stood tall, their victory a testament to their unwavering commitment to both their training and their daily conservation efforts.
Despite the physical demands of the day, the formal proceedings concluded, the rangers headed off to refresh themselves, their spirits high. But their work wasn’t done – a photoshoot in the wild awaited, capturing these conservation heroes in their element. As the afternoon wore on, the scent of a barbecue filled the air, promising a relaxed evening of continued celebration and bonding among these guardians of nature.
Setting the heart of Murchison falls national park makes this marathon truly unique. Unlike typical urban races, participates here share the course with the very wildlife they work to protect. Angers and spectacles alike were treated to the sight of antelopes gracefully bounding across the path and even the occasional elephants lumbering in the distance throughout the event. To ensure the safety of both runners and animals in this extraordinary wilderness marathon.
The Wildlife Ranger Challenge has raised over $20 million to support ranger welfare and conservation efforts since its inception in 2020. It’s the intangible benefits that truly shine but beyond the funds.
Founding Trustee of Uganda Conservation Foundation, the organizer of the Wildlife Ranger Challenge Michael Keigwin said that it has been a remarkable way to not only raise funds but also rebuild teamwork, morale, resilience, and endurance among their rangers from various parts of Africa, who are often overlooked. This initiative has uplifted everyone, providing a shared purpose and energy. The rangers unanimously love it, as it connects and unites them. “It’s not just about the race—it’s about rebuilding morale, resilience, and unity among our rangers across Africa.” He added.
The watch keeper at the Joint Operations Command Center, Murchison Falls National Park a ranger Amos Amaseku said the challenge represents more than just a race. He added saying that they have seen this grow over the past three years, they have participated in the last three races and have witnessed a substantial increase in the number of participants.
Amaseku went on to say that it’s not just about the competition—it’s about the support they receive for their daily work, from logistics to supplies. The Wildlife Ranger Challenge has been supportive of their work with logistics, other suppliers, and allowances.
“The support from this initiative has been very helpful, providing crucial resources that enhance our effectiveness in the field. Last year, we received a vehicle that has significantly boosted our operations ” Fred Kiiza, Chief Warden of Murchison Conservation Area, noted the tangible impacts.
Besides protecting the wildlife, what else do rangers do?
- They’re athletes.
- Team players
- Conservation heroes.
- Pushing their limits to safeguard the continent’s precious ecosystems.
With events like the Wildlife Ranger Challenge shining a spotlight on their crucial work, these dedicated individuals are finally getting the recognition they deserve. And as they continue to face the daily challenges of anti-poaching operations and community engagement, they do so knowing they have the support of a global community behind them.
