Du Toit’s Torrent Frog (Arthroleptides dutoiti) is a Critically Endangered amphibian, found only on Mount Elgon (Jacob & Christopher, 2021). Over the years, its population has suffered dramatic declines due to agriculture, deforestation, infrastructure development, and the impacts of climate change, all of which have severely altered its microhabitats. Alarmingly, the species has not been recorded in the past decade (Ngwava et al., 2021).

This Rufford Small Grant, awarded to Ms. Viola Kantono (Project Assistant, NatureUganda), will run from September 2025 to July 2026.

Project Objectives

• Improve understanding of species distribution and population size
• Strengthen community awareness and engagement in conservation
• Enhance collaboration with local and national stakeholders 

This project seeks to fill critical knowledge gaps by gathering data on the population size, distribution, and habitat characteristics of A. dutoiti. Surveys will be conducted across Mount Elgon, including both known sites and unsurveyed areas, while also documenting microhabitat conditions that influence the frog’s persistence.

On the Ugandan side of Mount Elgon, research on the species remains very limited (Jacob & Christopher, 2021). Yet, the threats are evident: local communities such as the Bagisu and Sabiny rely heavily on agriculture, which has led to habitat loss and heightened human–wildlife conflict. To address this, the project will not only focus on scientific research but will also engage communities directly. It will promote sustainable agricultural practices to minimize habitat destruction and raise awareness of the ecological importance of Du Toit’s Torrent Frog and other amphibians.

By combining research with community engagement, the project aims to secure the long-term survival of Du Toit’s Torrent Frog. Building local stewardship will ensure that conservation efforts continue beyond the project’s lifetime, protecting both the species and its fragile habitats.