Children In The Wilderness
Children in the Wilderness (CITW) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering rural African youth through conservation education and sustainable development initiatives. Operating across several African countries including Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia the organisation works primarily with children living in communities that border wildlife areas. Children in the Wilderness is the flagship education programme within Wilderness’ Impact strategy
At its core, CITW recognises that the long-term survival of Africa’s wildlife depends on the people who live alongside it. By investing in young people, the organisation aims to build a generation that not only understands conservation but actively participates in it.
Our Mission
The organisation’s mission is to educate, inspire, and uplift children to become responsible custodians of their natural environment. It combines environmental awareness with personal development, helping young people gain a deeper understanding of ecosystems and wildlife , leadership and life skills and confidence and a sense of purpose.
The broader vision is to create sustainable communities where people and wildlife can coexist, reducing human-wildlife conflict and promoting conservation-driven livelihoods.
Programme Structure
Children in the Wilderness is founded on the belief that protecting Africa’s extraordinary wilderness and wildlife requires knowledge, compassion, and long-term commitment. To safeguard these precious landscapes for future generations, it is essential that young people living alongside them understand the value of conservation and the role they can play in protecting their natural heritage. Through environmental education and life skills development, the programme empowers the next generation of leaders and decision-makers to become passionate custodians of Africa’s wild places.
This vision is brought to life through a range of initiatives that engage children from rural communities bordering protected areas. Eco-Clubs at local schools provide regular environmental learning opportunities, while immersive wilderness camps at Wilderness and partner camps inspire a deeper appreciation for nature through firsthand experiences in the bush.
Beyond environmental education, Children in the Wilderness is committed to improving the well-being and future opportunities of the children and communities it serves. Through initiatives such as school nutrition programmes, village upliftment projects, scholarships, and teacher support, the programme helps create healthier, stronger communities where both people and wildlife can thrive together.
ANNUAL CAMPS
Each year, a Wilderness or partner camp is transformed into an outdoor classroom, hosting up to 30 children aged 10–17years for an immersive four-day adventure. Through engaging lessons, practical conservation activities, games, and unforgettable wildlife experiences. Participants develop a deeper appreciation for nature while having the time of their lives.
ECO-MENTOR TRAINING
To ensure long-term impact, CITW invests in training local teachers and community members as Eco-Mentors. These mentors lead Eco-Club activities, act as role models within their communities and sustain the programme beyond external support. This approach strengthens local ownership and ensures continuity.
ECO-CLUBS
Eco-Clubs are the backbone of CITW’s work. These are long-term, school-based programmes that provide environmental education and conservation knowledge, teach practical life skills and problem-solving and encourage creativity and critical thinking. Through regular sessions, children learn about topics such as biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable living.
YES PROGRAMME
The YES programme targets high-potential students and provides advanced opportunities for growth. It focuses on leadership development, career guidance and deeper engagement in conservation issues. This creates a pathway for students who show strong commitment and promise.
SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIPS
CITW also provides educational scholarships to selected students, helping them continue their studies at secondary or tertiary level. Many beneficiaries go on to pursue careers in conservation, tourism and environmental science
TERTIARY SCHOLARSHIPS
Through our scholarship programme, we invest in the next generation of conservation leaders by funding students from our programme as they pursue tertiary qualifications in environmental and conservation-related fields.
Ngamo Vocational Training Centre
Established in 2025, the Ngamo Livestock Farm and Vocational Training Centre provides practical, hands on training that equips young people with valuable vocational, agricultural and life skills. Students gain experience in areas such as sustainable agriculture,livestock management, entrepreneurship and personal development, preparing them for future employment and self-sufficiency. Each year, the Ngamo Vocational Training Centre provides practical skills training to approximately 40 young people from rural communities surrounding Hwange National Park. By investing in local youth, the centre is helping create stronger communities and a more sustainable future for both people and wildlife.
Conservation Through Education
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How You Can Help?
Your support can help shape the next generation of conservation leaders. By donating to Children in the Wilderness (CITW), you provide children with access to environmental education, life skills training, Eco-Clubs, wilderness camps, and scholarship opportunities. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps inspire young people to value and protect Africa’s natural heritage, creating a lasting impact on both communities and wildlife for generations to come.