Recently, we had the opportunity to document an initiative by TotalEnergies EP Uganda, that is helping communities living around Murchison Falls National Park coexist more peacefully with wildlife.
For years, communities bordering the park have experienced challenges associated with wildlife crossing into villages and farmlands. Animals such as elephants and other wildlife occasionally leave protected areas in search of food and water, resulting in damaged crops, destroyed property, and concerns for the safety of local residents. These interactions have often created tension between conservation efforts and the livelihoods of communities living alongside one of Uganda’s most treasured ecosystems.
To help address this challenge, TotalEnergies EP Uganda, has supported the installation of an electric fence in collaboration with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The fence serves as a practical and sustainable solution designed to reduce wildlife incursions into community areas while ensuring animals remain safely within their natural habitat.
Our filming journey took us to several communities where the impact of the project is already being felt. Through interviews and on-location footage, we witnessed firsthand how residents are experiencing positive change. Farmers spoke about reduced crop destruction, while community members shared stories of improved peace of mind knowing that measures are in place to help protect both people and wildlife.
One of the most compelling aspects of the story was hearing directly from beneficiaries whose lives have been affected by human-wildlife conflict in the past. Their experiences painted a clear picture of the challenges communities have faced and highlighted the significance of interventions that promote coexistence rather than conflict.
Using a combination of ground cinematography and aerial drone footage, our team captured the scale of both the landscape and the solution itself. Sweeping aerial views showcased the vast boundary between community land and the national park, helping viewers appreciate the complexity of managing human-wildlife interactions in such a unique environment. On the ground, intimate interviews and observational footage brought human voices to the forefront, ensuring the story remained rooted in the experiences of those most affected.
The electric fence initiative represents a collaborative effort between TotalEnergies, the Uganda Wildlife Authority, and local communities to create a safer and more sustainable future for people and wildlife alike.
Projects like these remind us that effective conservation extends beyond protected areas. Through visual storytelling, we aim to document these efforts and share the stories of communities, organizations, and initiatives working together to create lasting impact.
