Protecting Rhinos

While we have been incredibly fortunate to have enjoyed over 40 months without any poaching incidents recorded by our project partners in Namibia, we are deeply saddened to report that we have recently lost a critically endangered black rhino to poaching.

The recent poaching incident is a deeply upsetting event that highlights the ongoing challenges we face in protecting these majestic animals. Despite our dedicated efforts to safeguard wildlife, this tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threats that continue to endanger rhinos in the region. Our partner’s team, composed of 44 full-time staff members—90% of whom are from the local community—alongside 70 Conservancy Rhino Rangers, has been working tirelessly to prevent such occurrences. These rangers, of whom 95% are also local, are at the frontline of our conservation efforts, striving to create a safe environment for rhinos and other wildlife.

The expansion of the rhino ranger programme into new areas has been a crucial step forward. With a vehicle and a dedicated driver assigned to the North-East landscape of the Nyae Nyae conservancy, the rangers are fully active in their mission. However, despite these advancements, the poaching incident highlights the need for even greater vigilance and stronger measures. We are resolute in our commitment to ensuring that such a tragedy does not happen again, and we are redoubling our efforts to protect Namibia’s rhinos.

In Assam, India, our partners have been leveraging advanced technological tools, such as GIS and remote sensing, to monitor forests, wildlife, and flood-prone areas, particularly during the monsoon season in rhino-bearing regions. These tools are vital for effective decision-making in conservation, helping to protect both wildlife and human communities from the impacts of environmental changes.

Our partners recently organised a two-day Conservation and Education Consultation in Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong, Assam. This event aimed to develop a strategic approach to conservation education, engaging a broad spectrum of participants—from children to the elderly—in discussions on sustainable resource management, biodiversity conservation, and the preservation of traditional knowledge and cultural values.

Our partner’s commitment to integrating traditional practices with modern conservation strategies is exemplified by their initiatives in promoting alternative and sustainable livelihoods. These efforts, supported by DSWF, aim to ensure that local communities can thrive economically while contributing to the preservation of biodiversity.

Both in Namibia and Assam, these initiatives reflect the broader global challenge of conservation in the face of increasing human pressures. Whether combating poaching in Namibia or educating the youth in Assam, these efforts are critical in building a future where wildlife and human communities can coexist sustainably. The successes and challenges in these regions emphasise the need for continued innovation, collaboration, and support to protect our planet’s most vulnerable species and the communities that depend on them.

As always, thank you for your generous support in providing a more sustainable future for the rhinos of India and Namibia, and the communities that live alongside them.

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