Communities near Kruger face rising conflict as elephants raid crops. Elephants Alive (EA) is helping families protect fields using beehive fences and botanicals elephants avoid, while training women and youth to produce honey and essential oils for income. A solar-powered mobile distillation unit, and its various component parts, will enable communities to create products locally, strengthening livelihoods and supporting peaceful coexistence.
Communities bordering Kruger face escalating human-elephant conflict as elephants raid crops when habitats shrink and fences fail. Families lose food, income, and safety, deepening fear and resentment. Without sustainable ways to protect farms and reduce conflict, livelihoods are threatened and elephants risk harm, making peaceful coexistence increasingly fragile.
The project reduces crop raids by using beehive fences and botanical barriers that elephants naturally avoid. It trains women and youth to harvest honey and produce essential oils from these plants, creating income tied to conservation. The solar-powered mobile unit, and its various component parts still require support, will enable communities to turn coexistence crops into high-value oils, unlocking economic opportunities even in areas without electricity.
The project will build lasting human-elephant coexistence by strengthening livelihoods, restoring trust, and reducing conflict. Communities gain sustainable income from honey and essential oils, increasing resilience to climate and economic pressures. Healthier ecosystems, empowered women, and safer farms create a model that can be replicated across the region for long-term conservation and community wellbeing.
Support this important cause by creating a personalized fundraising page.
Start a Fundraiser
