Protecting Rhinos

Efforts in Namibia and India have continued to deliver meaningful results, despite the challenges faced by communities and wildlife alike. In Namibia, our partners are celebrating the 10th year of the Community Rhino Ranger Programme (CRRP)which  continues to thrive, with over 70 rhino rangers, including 20 inspiring women, safeguarding rhino populations. Our ranger welfare programme ensures field staff remain well-equipped and trained, with every ranger now skilled in basic first aid and provided with fully stocked kits.   

A landmark population viability analysis is underway in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT). This project is the first of its kind for Namibia’s black rhinos, creating models that assess the population’s resilience under various environmental scenarios, such as drought. This vital data will inform conservation strategies for decades to come.   

In Namibia, our partner’s “Reading with Rhinos” initiative reached over 1,000 children across six schools in Kunene and five village schools in Tsumkwe. This programme introduces young learners to the importance of conservation while fostering a love of reading, encouraging future generations to protect the region’s wildlife.   

However, challenges persist. Poaching remains a threat in Kunene and NyaeNyae, while the rising cost of living, changing land use, and the ongoing drought pose additional hurdles. Greater community engagement and local partner investment will be crucial as we navigate these complexities.   

In India, efforts to combat poaching yielded significant successes, with 23 poachers apprehended and 14 weapons seized, leading to three successful convictions. Conservation education remains a cornerstone of our work, reaching nearly 8,000 children and 4,000 women through workshops and outreach activities. Our partner’s Rhino and Tiger Goes to Schoolprogramme brought conservation lessons to 17 schools, while a summer nature camp offered hands-on learning experiences to young participants. Additionally, our media campaigns reached over 10,000 people, spreading awareness about the importance of protecting these magnificent animals.   

Together with our partners and the communities we support, these achievements demonstrate the tangible power of collaboration in creating a brighter future for rhinos.   

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