news 30 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Danish Journalist Detained in Uganda Over Rwenzori Glacier Reports
Danish journalist and explorer Klaus Thymann has been arrested in Uganda, reportedly in connection with his work documenting the shrinking glaciers of the Rwenzori Mountains. He is currently detained at Kira Road Police Station pending transfer to Kasese. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/denmark-s-klaus-thymann-detained-in-uganda-over-rwenzori-glacier-reports-5513570
Uganda Police Force has arrested renowned Danish wildlife journalist and photographer Klaus Thymann. The arrest took place on Monday at the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) headquarters in Kampala. Thymann was reportedly in the process of obtaining a permit for his work at the time of his apprehension.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, Ms. Rachael Kawala, confirmed Thymann’s detention at Kira Road Police Station. He is expected to be transferred to Kasese District, where the alleged offences occurred. While the specific details remain under wraps pending internal briefings by UWA, spokesperson Mr. Bashir Hangi acknowledged the arrest.
Thymann is globally recognized for his investigative work on ecological crises, particularly focusing on the rapidly melting equatorial glaciers in the Rwenzori Mountains. His documentation of this phenomenon, contrasted with the Ugandan government’s previous denial of a climate crisis in the region, may be linked to his current detention.
This arrest occurs amid growing concerns over press freedom in Uganda. International media and human rights organizations have voiced apprehension, highlighting recent security actions against media houses and a perceived hostile environment for journalists, especially those reporting on environmental issues. The situation underscores broader challenges faced by free press and environmental activism in the region.