African Wildlife Foundation

In the lead-up to World Ranger Day, the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) highlights the indispensable role of rangers and community scouts in safeguarding Africa's wildlife and wild lands. These dedicated individuals are the first line of defense, tirelessly patrolling protected areas, monitoring wildlife, and engaging communities. Their work is essential for preserving Africa's unique biodiversity.

Rangers, also known as wardens, eco-guards, community scouts, or village game scouts, form the cornerstone of conservation efforts across Africa. Despite their different titles, they all share the common goal of protecting wildlife and wild lands. However, there are notable differences among them.

AWF is committed to building a strong foundation for conservation across Africa by empowering rangers and communities. Our work aligns with the urgent call to action of World Ranger Day 2024's "30 by 30" theme. To achieve this ambitious goal, we are taking concrete steps to protect wildlife and support those on the frontlines. We share more about our efforts through this link: https://bit.ly/3WCMvtC

African lions have vanished from over 90% of their historic range, with the steepest declines happening in the past 20 years. Now extinct in over 20 African countries, these majestic animals face severe threats from habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.

At the African Wildlife Foundation, we are dedicated to reversing this alarming trend. Our comprehensive conservation strategies aim to protect lion habitats, mitigate conflicts between lions and humans, and promote sustainable practices that benefit both wildlife and communities.

Learn more about our work in lion conservation, and join us in protecting Africa's iconic lions here - https://bit.ly/3LzVGER.

Africa's iconic populations once roamed freely across vast savannas, but since the 1970s, they have faced severe declines due to and . However, Kenya's dedicated efforts are showing remarkable results.

According to Kenya Wildlife Service , Kenya's black rhino population has surpassed the national recovery target of 1,000 black rhinos, marking a 150% increase from approximately 400 in the 1980s. This achievement highlights Kenya's leadership in black rhino conservation, following closely behind South Africa and Namibia.

Read more about 's efforts and successes in rhino conservation here >> https://bit.ly/4d4Zqdl

Last week in Kinshasa, DRC- AWF hosted the West African Journalism Workshop, a significant step towards enhancing positive African conservation storytelling. We recognize the immense power of storytelling and the pivotal role journalists play in shaping narratives, influencing public opinion, and driving positive change.

In West Africa, the region's rich biodiversity, unique ecosystems, and wildlife face increasing threats from deforestation, poaching, climate change, and unsustainable development practices. Journalists serve as vital conduits of information, raising awareness, educating the public, and holding stakeholders accountable.

By empowering journalists with the knowledge, tools, and networks necessary to effectively report on conservation issues, AWF aims to enhance the quality and impact of environmental journalism in West Africa and across the continent.

Chimpanzees are essential for maintaining forest health and contribute to human well-being through tourism. This year’s reminds us to boost our conservation efforts to protect these amazing species and restore their natural habitats.

In the African forest belt, there are four subspecies of chimpanzees living in diverse environments, from rainforests to dry savannas.

AWF is actively conserving these chimpanzees with major programs in Cameroon, the DRC, and Uganda. Eco-guards in Bili-Uere (DRC) and Dja and Campo Ma’an (Cameroon) patrol to protect these animals and their habitats. Read more about our efforts here >> https://bit.ly/4bCw3Oo

Africa is home to unparalleled biodiversity, but its species and habitats are increasingly threatened by human activities. With over 45,300 species facing extinction globally, urgent action is needed. A recent study in Science demonstrates that conservation efforts significantly improve biodiversity outcomes.

At the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), we've dedicated ourselves to preserving Africa’s landscapes and empowering local communities. From the revival of Manyara Ranch in Tanzania to the protection of mountain gorillas in the Virungas, our initiatives exemplify the positive impact of conservation.

Our work emphasizes the importance of aligning conservation with sustainable development. By showcasing successful conservation efforts, we aim to build public confidence, secure ongoing support, and integrate conservation with development objectives. This holistic approach ensures that conservation efforts benefit both wildlife and human communities.

The leopards’ rosettes are a familiar pattern, but in the wild, they can be difficult to see. This difficulty is not only due to the camouflage the markings provide — helping to break up the predator’s outline — or to the creature’s remarkable stealth, the silence with which it is able to stalk its prey through the night. This is because the leopard’s numbers are in decline.

With their unparalleled grace and striking beauty, they are more than just august . In fact, we can all agree that the leopard is far too remarkable and valuable a species to lose.

In this article by BBC Wildlife Magazine, our resident scientists share more insights on the importance of leopards to our ecosystem. Read the article here> https://discoverwildlife.com/animal-facts/mammals/leopard-facts

The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) and ICCN ( Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature) have embarked on a groundbreaking project to enhance the Bili Uere landscape in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

The project will lead to the strengthening of the co-management agreement between AWF and ICCN for the Bili Uéré Hunting Estate and Mbomu Wildlife Reserve, boosting the logistical and operational capabilities of ICCN and AWF, therefore promoting of and local and pastoral .

This initiative, funded by the European Union (EU), is a significant chapter in the program, focusing on the ' Metallic Landscape. It also aligns perfectly with AWF’s Bili Uéré Landscape Conservation Strategy (2023-2033).

Building on the accomplishments of the ECOFAC6 project, which significantly enhanced ICCN’s governance and management of protected areas, fostered strong community relationships, and established inclusive governance structures. This new initiative is sure to mark an ambitious step towards preserving the incredible biodiversity of the DRC!

This , we salute and applaud the brave women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our planet's wildlife and natural habitats.

From patrolling vast to combating poaching, these incredible women work tirelessly on the frontlines of conservation. Their dedication, strength, and passion are making a significant difference in preserving and safeguarding .

African Wildlife Foundation acknowledges the pivotal role that play in preserving ’s wildlife heritage. Here is a tribute to the women who are not just protecting wildlife but also shaping the future of : https://bit.ly/3L1oA0e

As the countdown to draws nearer, we are eager to celebrate our long-necked friends this week by sharing with you the amazing conservation work we and our partners have been engaged in to safeguard these precious .

This is why we would like to know how many of you are conservation gurus. Are you ready for an easy challenge?

We'd like you to tell us how many species can be found in . Bonus points if you can name them all correctly!

Share your answers in the comments below, and let’s spread the love for our gentle giants!

This year, as we celebrate , we raise awareness of the increased need for enhanced efforts to combat drought and desertification.

In Tanzania, the African Wildlife Foundation, alongside ,
and the , has upgraded to a .

These efforts are geared towards protecting rare species like the Udzungwa Red Colobus Monkey and the Magombera Chameleon and strengthening the Udzungwa-Selous .

Through strategic and approaches, we've set a global benchmark for .

We remain committed to fighting land degradation and protecting and

We’ve successfully completed our park boundary refreshment in the stunning Dja Faunal Reserve (DFR) in Cameroon! Thanks to the Nancy Drapper Foundation, local communities, and the Ministry of Forests and Wildlife (MINFOF), we marked over 15 km of trees across 10 villages. 🌳

This project is key to the DFR management plan (2020-2024) and vital for the reserve's rich . We’re also strengthening the bond between and the DFR.

We engaged 278 participants in discussions about the DFR's status and zoning regulations.

This collaboration shows the power of working together for a shared goal. We are grateful to everyone involved!

Let’s keep the spirit of conservation alive!

Clean water for a healthy future!

Access to clean water is a fundamental right for all! In Faro, Cameroon, journeying 3-5km daily for water was a reality for many women and children. The EU-funded CaSeVe project promotes sustainable water management in Cameroon's Faro region. Building on the success of the ECOFAC 6 project, CaSeVe, with the support of AWF. The Rural Resource Center in Tchamba has received ten 5000-liter-capacity tanks courtesy of AWF’s efforts in the region.

The 674 individuals in the Tchamba community now enjoy clean water for domestic use, agriculture, and livestock. Similarly, the Voko village has seen a positive change, with 452 residents now having clean water available. .

The African Wildlife Foundation and the Conservation Service at Campo Ma’an National Park, Cameroon, are continuing their multi-year initiative to support local communities living around the area. This week, they organized a mass distribution of 21,800 cocoa plants and 10,000 plantain seedlings in the Akom II and Ma'an sectors.

Twenty-one families from four villages received enough plants to establish 1-hectare cocoa agroforests, enriched with plantains. This initiative not only improves their livelihoods but also promotes conservation efforts! Supporting communities and protecting nature go hand-in-hand.

The African Wildlife Foundation and are transforming lives in Taita Taveta County by enhancing access to clean water! In this semi-arid region, clean water is more than a necessity—it's a lifeline for people, livestock, and wildlife.

Thanks to the amazing Diwadane Water Project, over 20,000 residents now have a sustainable water source!

Ready to see the impact? Read the latest article on how conservation and community development can create a sustainable future - https://www.awf.org/news/awf-and-tui-care-foundation-enhance-access-clean-water-taita-taveta-county

Have you got your tickets for the upcoming Wildscreen Festival in Arusha, Tanzania, from 6-7 June 2024?

With epic headliners, networking events, and premiere screenings, this event will explore the wildlife film and TV industry with a special focus on career development, funding, production, and impact.

Featuring 'In Conversation With' sessions including Erica Rugabandana, 'Development 101' with Sreya Biwas, WildPitch, and many more sessions from local talent and industry leaders!

Check out the programme and book your spot now!

Programme Link:https://wildscreen.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Wildscreen-Festival-Tanzania-Programme.pdf

Ticket Link: https://events.wildscreen.org/products/wildscreen-tanzania-festival

Did you know? Nature-based tourism alone contributes a staggering $29 billion annually to 's economy, supporting countless jobs and livelihoods!
But how can we ensure this vital economic driver thrives?

Learn more about how initiatives like the Report and Rwanda's success stories are shaping a future for both people and wildlife. From Tanzania to Cameroon and the DRC, the African Wildlife Foundation is leading the way in championing a future where people and wildlife thrive together!
Read here>> https://www.awf.org/news/international-day-biodiversity-how-awf-fuels-biodiversity-conservation-africa

In the true spirit of , We are showcasing how we are leading the charge with innovative conservation approaches, including habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and community-based projects in Rwanda.

To know more about our proactive role in promoting , highlighting the various strategies, initiatives, and undertaken to protect 's diverse ecosystems and . Read our latest article > https://www.awf.org/news/international-day-biodiversity-awfs-pioneering-role-rwandas-conservation-success

When communities thrive, it sends a ripple effect to wildlife and the ecosystems they share. Right now, you can amplify your support. Join our $250,000 Spring Board Challenge Match and build a resilient future for Africa: https://bit.ly/3QOdZJG

$250K for Africa's Future When communities thrive, so does wildlife and the ecosystems they both rely on. Join our $250,000 Spring Challenge Match and amplify your impact for Africa's resilient future. Join by June 12 to double your gift!