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
VFAPU’s impact is driven by its hands-on anti-poaching methods, daily foot and vehicle patrols, strategic snare sweeps, wildlife monitoring, intelligence-led operations, and strong collaboration with authorities, which together have dramatically reduced poaching pressure around Victoria Falls. Through these efforts, VFAPU has removed thousands of snares, rescued injured wildlife, supported successful arrests and prosecutions, and built stronger community awareness around conservation. These combined methods have created a safer environment for wildlife and helped protect the ecological and economic value of the Victoria Falls region.
BOOTS ON THE GROUND
VFAPU’s most effective strategy is its year-round horse and foot patrols, which maintain a constant field presence to deter poachers, gather intelligence, respond to incursions, monitor wildlife, and help rescue snared animals alongside vets.
TECHNOLOGY IN THE FIGHT AGAINST POACHING
VFAPU relies on advanced technology for early detection, using AI-enabled cellular trail cameras to identify threats and send instant alerts that support rapid responses and arrests. Positioned along known poaching routes, these cameras monitor key access points.
WORKING WITH SPECIALIZED CANINES
VFAPU partners with the Take Action Trust to use specially trained K9 units for tracking poachers, assisting in patrols and detecting concealed wildlife products. These dogs have aided multiple arrests, and are a vital part of our anti-poaching operations.
INTELLIGENCE AND UNDER-COVER OPERATIONS
A key part of VFAPU’s anti-poaching strategy is intelligence gathering. With a high demand for bushmeat and wildlife products in the city, VFAPU relies on an established informer network and conducts undercover operations with plain-clothed rangers. These efforts provide crucial information on illegal activities
Our Story
Charles Brightman, a local safari operator and conservationist, founded the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit (VFAPU) in January 1999 in partnership with Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, responding to the severe poaching crisis at the time. Since then, VFAPU has worked closely with the National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and the Zimbabwe Republic Police, achieving significant progress in protecting local wildlife.
What began with just three scouts has grown into a committed team of 18 full-time rangers who patrol roughly fifty square kilometres around Victoria Falls. These patrols run seven days a week, both day and night, tackling all forms of poaching.
Charles Brightman was a finalist for the Worldwide Vets Golden Star Award 2025, in recognition of his continued dedication and outstanding contribution to conservation. His tireless work in the field, commitment to wildlife welfare, and long-term impact on conservation efforts have earned him international recognition and reflect the vital role he plays in protecting wildlife and supporting those working on the frontlines of conservation.
The role of an Anti-Poaching Ranger is vital if we are to win the war against wildlife crime.
VFAPU rangers are vital because they provide constant on-the-ground protection for wildlife in the Victoria Falls area, removing snares, deterring poachers, and responding quickly to threats before animals are harmed. Their dedication keeps poaching pressure down, safeguards vulnerable species, and supports the long-term health of the ecosystem. By working closely with local communities and authorities, they also help prevent conflict and strengthen conservation awareness, making them essential to preserving the region’s natural heritage
Latest News
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- VFAPU Monthly Updates
Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit March 2026 Update The last month or so has seen a definite shift in the seasons....
Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit February 2026 Update February has shown the dark side of living side by side with animals....
Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching January 2026 Update First and foremost, a very Happy New Year and all the best for 2026....
Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit September – October 2025 Update The last two months have been busy and I must start...
Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit August 2025 Update August has seen the return of the heat, temperatures gradually climbing into the...
How You Can Help?
You can make a real difference in protecting Zimbabwe’s wildlife by supporting our anti-poaching rangers. Your donation helps fund their salaries, provide essential equipment, maintain vehicles, and ensure they have the supplies needed to patrol remote and challenging terrain. Every contribution strengthens their ability to safeguard the area keeping these iconic animals safe for generations to come.