BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI 

At least 591 rangers were killed in Africa between 2006 and 2021, making the continent the deadliest place in the world for those on the frontline of protecting wildlife. This stark statistic was revealed by conservation charity Tusk in a press statement issued to mark World Ranger Day, warning that without urgent reforms, more lives will be lost — and Africa’s biodiversity will pay the price.

“Being a ranger extends far beyond conservation. You are educators, community leaders, researchers, mentors and protectors of cultural and historical heritage, yet this remains one of the most dangerous jobs on Earth,” said Prince William, Tusk’s Royal Patron, in a video message to rangers.

Despite their sacrifices, fewer than 40% of rangers worldwide have access to life insurance, and only 63% receive basic medical services. Many are still underpaid, under-equipped, and exposed to deadly risks from armed poachers, human-wildlife conflict, and hazardous terrain.

Nick Bubb, CEO of Tusk, said: “Too many rangers risk their lives without even the most basic protection. If we are serious about delivering the global biodiversity targets, we must further professionalise the ranger role – with insurance, fair pay, and recognition – so that it becomes a career young Africans aspire to join.”

The White Paper, Protecting Rangers to Protect Nature, stresses that Africa currently has just 65,000 active rangers — far short of the 345,000 needed to meet international biodiversity targets, including the 30×30 goal to protect 30% of land and seas by 2030.

Louise de Bruin, CEO of the Game Rangers Association of Africa, added: “Our priority is to stand with rangers on the ground and support the organisations that employ them. The RWSI gives us a practical way to listen to rangers, assess their needs, and work alongside partners to improve welfare standards.”

The statement calls for governments, donors, and conservation organisations to embed reforms through the Ranger Welfare and Standards Initiative, launched last year. Measures include affordable insurance, professional training, fair pay, and continent-wide emergency systems to ensure no ranger is left vulnerable.

Senior ranger Benson Kanyembo from Zambia captured the human cost: “Ranger recruitment is low because the job, as it stands, is not attractive enough. Rangers face extreme personal risk while their families live one accident or illness away from destitution. This is not acceptable.”

The report concludes that protecting rangers is inseparable from protecting nature. Without them, Africa risks losing not only its iconic elephants, rhinos, and lions — but also the ecosystems that provide food, water, and livelihoods for millions.

BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI 

Knowledge Sibanda, a 23-year-old ranger with the Conservation Wildlife Fund (CWF), stood at the starting line of the Wildlife Ranger Challenge, a 21-kilometer run held on Saturday. “I’m running because I want to show that rangers care about their health and our environment,” he said. This was his first time participating in the event, and as he looked around at his fellow rangers, excitement pulsed through him.

As the horn sounded around 6AM, Knowledge and other rangers surged forward along the scenic Lubimbi Road, with water stations and fruit stands cheering them on every few kilometers. This was not just a race; it was a gathering to celebrate the vital work of wildlife rangers across Africa. Organized by the Painted Dog Conservation, the challenge aims to enhance rangers’ livelihoods while advocating for better training and support in their critical roles.

Running alongside Knowledge was Mbonisi Mudimba, another ranger who emphasized the purpose behind their participation. “We want to encourage the younger generation to get involved in conservation,” he explained, breathing heavily but with a smile of determination. “If we show them that we care and that being a ranger can be fulfilling, they’ll want to join us.”

As the rangers completed their race, the atmosphere shifted to one of celebration and reflection. Participants gathered at a Gwai Valley School for a series of presentations that emphasized the day’s theme: protecting the environment for future generations.

Headman Doctor Ncube from Chimwara Village, who represented Chief Mabhikwa, spoke about the importance of conserving natural resources. “Thank you to the scouts and organizers of this event. This nature is vital, and as traditional leaders, we must protect it,” he said. He urged the rangers to stay fit, as their physical endurance is critical to countering poaching and safeguarding wildlife.

David Kuvawoga, Operations Director at Painted Dog Conservation, shared his appreciation of the rangers’ efforts. “We’re here today to show that we’re united in our mission,” he remarked. “Rangers work tirelessly, often away from their families, to protect our natural resources. Their dedication deserves recognition.”

Dan Cloete, the Field Operations Manager at CWF, also highlighted the role of these events in building community support. “By hosting events like this, we show that rangers are not alone in their fight for conservation. Together, we can achieve more,” he stated, underscoring the camaraderie built during the race.

The day’s events culminated in an acknowledgment of the challenges faced by rangers. Debra Ogilvie-Roodt, who leads the CWF, reminded everyone of the risks involved in conservation work. “Rangers put their lives on the line every day. It’s essential that we raise awareness of their dedication and support them in any way we can,” she urged, calling for ongoing efforts to improve ranger welfare.

The Wildlife Ranger Challenge served as a reminder of the collaborative effort needed to protect the environment, Kuvawoga further stated.

With determined rangers leading the way, communities like those in Mabale, Dete and Gwai are beginning to understand their vital role in safeguarding the natural world. After all, it isn’t just a race; it’s a movement toward preserving the planet for future generations.

In addition to the inspiring speeches and side celebrations, the event received significant support from various partners and community members including the Amalinda Safaris, the Friends of Hwange, the Gwayi Farmers Association, Wilderness Safaris, and many others who rallied behind the cause.