The Issue:

Communities along the southern boundary of Hwange National Park face harsh living conditions, including poor soil fertility, drought, and frequent human-wildlife conflict as elephants destroy crops and predators kill livestock. Historically, this has led to subsistence poaching. Limited access to education and income-generating opportunities, particularly for women, further compounds these challenges. Without viable alternatives, communities often see wildlife as a threat rather than an asset, making long-term conservation efforts difficult to sustain.

 Grant Award Use:

The $15,000 ATCF grant will support Phase 2 of CRCI by funding the recruitment and training of local women as wildlife protection scouts. This expansion includes integrating women into the Cobras Community Wildlife Protection Unit, building additional fencing to secure new rhino sanctuaries, and fostering greater community engagement in conservation. Funds will help cover salaries, supplies, and program coordination—ensuring women are not only included in conservation but are also empowered as leaders in their communities.

 What Would a Successful Project Result In?

Success would mean a thriving population of white rhinos living safely on community-managed land, with local people—especially women—employed as scouts and benefiting directly from conservation-linked tourism. Human-wildlife conflict would decrease, new income streams would emerge, and community members would become active advocates for biodiversity protection and environmental stewardship.