On World Ranger Day, 31 July 2024, we recognise the immense challenges faced by wildlife rangers in Africa and honour their dedication to their roles. These unsung heroes put their lives on the line daily to protect our natural world. More than ever, they need our support. This means corporates providing funding for resources and communities supporting both rangers and their families.
Life as a wildlife ranger is a dangerous one. In the last year, 140 rangers from 37 countries have lost their lives to armed poachers, wild animals, fires and accidents as reported by the International Ranger Federation. Despite these challenges, African wildlife rangers remain passionately dedicated to their mission.
Moses Mutemeri, an ecologist working in the Savé Valley Conservancy for Anti-Poaching and Tracking Specialists, speaks to some of the difficulties he faces. “This job doesn’t come without challenges, and the biggest of them all is living far away from family and all the risks associated with coexisting with wild animals.”
Hear directly from Moses Mutemeri, an ecologist for Anti-Poaching and Tracking Specialists working in Savé Valley Conservancy.
Wildlife rangers are the thin green line between biodiversity and extinction. With Africa having lost two-thirds of its wildlife since 1970, according to WWF’s Living Planet Report, rangers stand in the gap to protect many threatened and vulnerable species. Their work is also crucial for preserving wildlife for tourism, which creates jobs and boosts both local and national economies. In fact, 80% of tourists come to Africa for the safari experience, as per the United Nations World Tourism Association, positioning wildlife as the biggest driver of Africa’s tourism growth.
But wildlife areas in Zimbabwe face immense challenges. Rangers need improved equipment and training, parks need infrastructure development, and both rangers and their families need insurance, medical care, and mental health support. This support could be provided by the private sector in the form of direct financial contributions, sponsorships, and funding for specific projects or initiatives.
Farai Chapoterera, Zimbabwe Representative at Wild Africa, urged businesses to support wildlife conservation. “We need corporates to step up and support our rangers, to help us provide the resources and equipment they need to do their job effectively. It’s not just about writing a cheque; it’s about making a commitment to the future of our planet.”
Guy Jennings, Southern Africa Director at Wild Africa, added his voice, stressing that supporting ranger welfare is not only a moral imperative but also a sound business strategy. “By investing in conservation, corporates can help ensure the long-term sustainability of natural resources, promote eco-tourism, and contribute to the wellbeing of local communities.”
Going beyond businesses, rangers need the support of their local communities. Rangers are away from their families for long periods of time and can sometimes face backlash for poacher arrests. Everyday people can step in to offer their support, care, and respect. After all – it is for the wider good that these rangers work, and so that future generations can enjoy our African wildlife heritage.
Listen to Norest William, a scout sergeant working at Imire who speaks directly to the need to preserve wildlife for the future.
As we mark World Ranger Day, let us honour the bravery and dedication of our wildlife rangers. Let us rally behind them and support their efforts to protect our unique wildlife and natural resources. The future of our planet depends on it.
