"Coexistence officers are key partners incommunity-driven conservation. By working together, rangers and communities cancome up with smart solutions that help both people and nature, making sure weall have a bright future ahead."
Elvis Kisimir, Human-Wildlife Conflict Prevention Senior Program Officer
On July 31st, we celebrate the dedication and bravery of rangers who stand on the front lines of wildlife conservation. At African People &Wildlife, our rangers are community-based coexistence officers, ensuring harmony between people and the magnificent animals that share their land.
This World Ranger Day, we’re shining a spotlight on our coexistence teams like Community Game Scouts who help protect communal lands around Tarangire National Park. Combined with Warriors for Wildlife working in six different landscapes across Tanzania, this ranger network does more than safeguard wildlife-saving the lives of countless big cats, elephants, buffalo, and other animals. They build strong community relationships, promote environmental education, and help their neighbors peacefully overcome conflicts.
It’s conservation with a human touch.
Spotted: Rangers in the Night
In the villages around Karatu, human-elephant coexistence officers work in the fertile foothills and lush river corridors outside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. These rangers, part of APW-trained Rapid Response Teams, play a vital role in fostering harmony between elephants and local farmers.
Recent images by photographer Marcus Westberg (on assignment for Global Conservation) reveal the intensity of their mission. When reports of elephants venturing into agricultural fields emerge, the team quickly mobilizes. Equipped with high-powered flashlights and other mitigation tools, they navigate challenging terrain to safely redirect the elephants away from crops and back to natural habitats.
This crucial effort to protect local livelihoods and wildlife with local teams is part of an ongoing collaboration with Karatu District and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority. Sustainable coexistence relies on strong partnerships. By bringing together rangers, communities, and local governments, we are creating a robust network of shared knowledge and collective action.
Double Duty: Your Gift Will Be Matched
For a limited time, donations will be matcheddollar-for-dollar thanks to a generous supporter. Make a gift for World RangerDay to double the impact of your generosity! Donations contribute tocoexistence programming, such as stipends, training, and equipment for ourcoexistence officers.
Let’s Cheer #ForWildlifeRangers
Want to support rangers from home? Rally behind our two teams of Community Game Scouts as they gear up for the Tusk Trust Wildlife Ranger Challenge. Known for its exceptional (and winning!) track record, our Tarangire Coexistence Team is set to compete in this year’s series of rigorous mental and physical trials, culminating in a 21km half marathon on September 21st.
How you can help:
- Test your skills and stamina by joining the Mini Challenges.
- Encourage friends and family to participate, raising awareness and support for rangers.
- Post about the Wildlife Ranger Challenge on your social media using #ForWildlifeRangers — including updates from APW!