Protecting Rhinos

As spring breathes new life into landscapes around the world, we are pleased to share developments from our rhino conservation projects in both India and Namibia, work made possible only through the unwavering support of donors like you.

India

Across the rhino-bearing landscapes of Assam, we are delighted to report that rhino populations continue to increase. These gains are a testament to the ceaseless work of dedicated teams on the ground, and to the long-term impact of strategic conservation partnerships. Our support this year is helping to strengthen frontline protection efforts in Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary, providing 250 members of Village Defence Patrols with essential equipment including raincoats, torches and footwear, as well as fuel support for ongoing patrols. These items are not only practical necessities during the monsoon months, but also vital in ensuring that rangers can carry out their duties safely and effectively.

In addition to direct protection efforts, our partners are continuing to work closely with forest departments, police, cross-border agencies, and the judiciary to share intelligence and mount coordinated responses to wildlife crime. This collaboration is essential to dismantling the networks that threaten endangered species and to strengthening enforcement of wildlife protection laws.

Conservation education remains a core focus. This year, over 3,000 children will take part in our Rhino and Tiger Go to School programme, with 40 sessions planned to inspire the next generation of conservationists. A further 30 to 35 students will attend a Nature Orientation Camp, a three-day immersive experience that nurtures a deeper understanding and appreciation of local wildlife and ecosystems.

Namibia

In northern Namibia, the beginning of 2024 was marred by two devastating rhino poaching incidents, stark reminders that organised poaching syndicates remain an ever-present threat. However, since those early losses, we are pleased to report that there have been no further incidents. This progress reflects the unwavering commitment of local rangers, whose daily patrols play a vital role in monitoring and protecting one of the world’s most endangered species.

Rangers are expected to carry out over 11,000 patrols, covering an estimated 60,000km, an extraordinary feat of endurance and dedication. During these patrols, rangers collect vital monitoring data which feeds into the national SMART database, guiding conservation decisions made by the Namibian government.

However, these efforts have come under unprecedented strain due to the sudden freeze of USAID funding. This funding once supported a wide array of conservation activities from anti-poaching patrols to community outreach and investigations into the illegal wildlife trade. The impact of this funding withdrawal has been swift and severe, with real-world consequences for both wildlife and the people working to protect them.

In this time of global uncertainty, your generosity is keeping hope alive for rhinos and the people who care for them. The sudden loss of international funding has made individual giving more important than ever, and we are deeply grateful to each of you for standing by our side.

Together, we are proving that determined, passionate people can make a lasting difference, not only by safeguarding wildlife but also by uplifting communities and inspiring future generations. Thank you for helping us continue this vital work. With your support, we look forward to a future where rhinos can thrive in the wild.