Deadline: February 22, 2022.

Internews’ Earth Journalism Network invites journalists from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda to apply for our 2022 wildlife and conservation workshop, to be held from March 28 to April 4 in Fort Portal, Uganda. The five-day workshop will introduce journalists to the various threats confronting wildlife and biodiversity across the region, and ongoing efforts to combat these threats.

Located near the foot of Mt. Rwenzori, the third tallest mountain range in Africa, Fort Portal is about 1,500 meters above sea level and is often fondly described as the “Tourism City” of East Africa’s third largest economy. It is within driving distance of three national parks: Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Semuliki National Park. Visitors to these parks will have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, hippopotamus, waterbucks, warthogs, lions, kobs and rhinos, as well as several species of birds.

During the workshop, participants will gain a deeper understanding of conservation efforts in the region and learn how researchers, Indigenous groups, local communities and policymakers are protecting their ecosystems and addressing threats such as hunting, poaching and trafficking.

ELIGIBILITY

1. The workshop is open to journalists from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Those based in Kampala and the Ugandan countryside are especially encouraged to apply.
2. Self-motivated journalists interested in covering human-wildlife conflicts, poaching, trafficking and other wildlife crimes are invited to apply.
3. They are especially eager to hear from journalists reporting on community-based conservation initiatives, grassroots solutions and policy actions presently underway to protect wildlife and manage habitats and natural resources.
4. They welcome applications from journalists from print, television, online and/or radio, with a demonstrated track record of producing incisive, in-depth stories.

BENEFITS

EJN will bear the travel, accommodation, and meal costs of selected participants.

APPLICATION

• Click on the Apply Now button on the top right of this page.
• Applicants must provide a letter from their editor or media outlet supporting their application. Freelance journalists are welcome to apply but will need a letter of support from a media organization committing to publish or broadcast their stories.
• Applicants must submit two published writing samples or links to stories that have appeared online. Story clips related to wildlife and conservation issues are welcome. 

OFFICIAL LINK