The Wildlife Ranger Challenge campaign connects thousands of rangers from 24 African nations with many thousands of supporters from more than 90 countries around the world – uniting the global north and the global south in a common cause.

The Wildlife Ranger Challenge is a fundraising and awareness campaign set up by Prince William and Tusk Trust over the COVID period to support the vital work of frontline wildlife rangers across Africa.

The WRC is a 21km run, in teams of four, with each participant carrying a 22kg rucksack – as rangers across Africa often do. The last member of the team across the finishing line, is the teams time.

Whilst there is a formal ranger race, non-ranger teams are also present, some simply enjoying a walk in the park. These include corporates, tour operators and hotels, the ‘Old Fogies’ team that has always had celebrities, British High Commission staff, and Uganda rugby players in, to mention a few.

Teams start at 0600 from the Pakuba airstrip, following the 21km course downhill (!) to the Delta finishing line, where a breakfast and prizegiving awaits. In the evening, UCF hosts a ranger BBQ at the student centre – where all participants are invited and can enjoy.

Launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the event has grown into a significant global initiative, raising over $16 million since its inception. The WRC involves physical and mental challenges designed to simulate the real-life situations faced by rangers, culminating in a marathon run through some of Africa’s most iconic national parks.

For the last 5 years, UCF has coordinated the WRC in Uganda, with over 200 parks across Africa participating. Whereas most submit their run times from their park on Strava, UCF brings teams in to host the event in Murchison Falls, with a Delta ‘bush breakfast’ and evening BBQ for all participants and well-wishers.

Funds raised by the past challenges have supported rangers in the national parks with boots, raincoats, rucksacks, water bottles, fuel for anti-poaching patrols – veterinary rescues from snares – and pushing elephants and lions back in the park, ranger food and medical support, keeping the animals and communities safe at a time when the parks were vulnerable.

Last year, we saw over 15 teams fiercely competing in the Wildlife Ranger Challenge, creating an exciting and spirited atmosphere, with Kidepo Valley National Park rangers and the Kidepo Crazy Cat team winning the ‘open’ trophy.

The event featured both ranger teams and supporters’ teams, showcasing a blend of camaraderie and competition. The supporters’ teams, comprised of conservation enthusiasts, corporates, government officials and local community members, added to the excitement, making the challenge not just a competition but a celebration of solidarity and shared commitment to conservation. The enthusiasm and dedication of all participants were palpable, making the event a memorable and impactful occasion.