- The fundraising initiative features a series of fitness challenges between June and September every year and culminates with a 21km half-marathon race in select African countries.
- This year will see the overall campaign exceed $20 million raised since July 2020, which underlines the hugely positive impact that the Wildlife Ranger Challenge has had on rangers across Africa.
Image: GILBERT KOECH
African Wildlife Ranger teams today took part in a 21 km (half-marathon) race across protected areas in 18 African countries, to raise vital funds for and awareness of the Wildlife Ranger profession.
Now in its fifth year, the Wildlife Ranger Challenge is coordinated by UK-based African conservation charity Tusk and the Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA), with support from founding donor, Mark Scheinberg.
The fundraising initiative features a series of fitness challenges between June and September every year and culminates with a 21km half-marathon race in select African countries.
This year will see the overall campaign exceed $20 million raised since July 2020, which underlines the hugely positive impact that the Wildlife Ranger Challenge has had on rangers across Africa.
The Challenge aims to elevate the status of wildlife rangers, highlighting their diverse responsibilities and the daily challenges they face.
By raising funds for their crucial conservation work, the Challenge seeks to support their efforts to protect global wildlife.
Additionally, the event fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among the participants.
This year, over 150 four-person Wildlife Ranger teams competed, representing diverse conservation efforts across Africa.
From marine rangers protecting coral and sea turtles in the Indian Ocean to mounted rangers patrolling the high-altitude forests of Mount Kenya to an all-female unit protecting wildlife in the remote east of Zambia, these teams showcased the dedication and variety of wildlife conservation work being done on the continent.
In a global show of support for wildlife rangers, five regional races were held in Kenya, South Africa, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda each hosted their own race, challenging participants to navigate diverse terrains, from lush rainforests to arid savannas.
Rangers from these five countries joined forces with supporters worldwide, uniting under the hash tag #ForWildlifeRangers.
In Kenya, 17 teams competed in the regional race held at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.
The Lewa Lions emerged as the overall winners, followed by Ol Pejeta and the Northern Rangelands Trust.
In the female category, the Lewa Lionesses secured first place, with the Sera Rangers women's team in second.
Pre-Race instructions advised all Wildlife Rangers to run early to avoid the heat, be accompanied by a vehicle, be alert to dangerous wildlife, wear boots and field uniforms and carry a backpack weighing 22kg for men and 10kg for women.
Each Ranger Team of four were asked to start together, stay together and finish together due to the risks from the elements and wildlife encounters.
Tusk CEO Nick Bubb said it has been such a privilege for me to be in Zambia with the teams from Conservation South Luangwa for race day. In addition to the energy and obvious camaraderie of Rangers, it was their total commitment to the task in hand which I found so inspiring.
Simply put, Rangers are exceptional human beings, and I believe that it is now more important than ever to stand with them, invest in their profession and fully recognise the incalculable value of their contribution to conservation.”
Game Rangers Association of Africa (GRAA) CEO Andrew Campbell said the challenge is in essence a microcosm of a Ranger’s life.
“The qualities I have seen played out in today’s race - endurance, teamwork, dedication, stamina, grit - are those that are needed to be a Ranger in day-to-day life,” he said.
Chief of programmes and Partnerships, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy John Kinoti said the conservancy honours the courageous men and women who stand on the frontlines of wildlife conservation across Africa.
“Their commitment and sacrifice are vital in the fight to protect endangered species and preserve our natural heritage for future generations. Let us stand together to support and recognize their vital role in securing a future where wildlife can thrive," he said.
Patrol Programs and Security Officer at Mount Kenya Trust Enoch Ochieng said rangers play a crucial role in protecting our ecosystems.
“They serve as guardians, educators, and even firefighters, ensuring the health and balance of our natural world. The Wildlife Ranger Challenge provides invaluable support to Kenyan rangers, not only by providing them with salaries but also by fostering a sense of camaraderie through competitions and idea exchange," he said
"This event also offers a unique opportunity for rangers to connect with their supporters and friends, strengthening the bond between those dedicated to conservation efforts."