Rhino Monitoring and Anti-Poaching
North West Matabeleland, encompassing Hwange National Park and Zambezi National Park, was historically home to both black and white rhino. Black rhinos inhabited the rugged hills and bush of what are now the Sinamatella and Robins sectors of Hwange, and were also recorded on the basalts of the Zambezi River basin above Victoria Falls. White rhinos, on the other hand, were widespread across the flat, open Kalahari woodland that dominates the region, with F. C. Selous noting significant numbers on the Dete Vlei in the late 1800s. Unfortunately, human activities in the early twentieth century—including settlement, agriculture, and unsustainable hunting—led to the complete eradication of rhinos from this once-rich landscape.
Our Impact
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.
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
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How You Can Help?
You can help protect Zimbabwe’s rhinos by supporting our rhino monitoring and anti-poaching efforts. Your donation provides vital resources for our rangers to track and safeguard rhinos, maintain water points, patrol high-risk areas, and respond to threats in real time. Every contribution directly strengthens our frontline conservation work and helps ensure the survival of these iconic species.