Honouring Wildlife Guardians

Harnessing Technology for Wildlife Conservation in Hurungwe, Zimbabwe

August 14, 2024

a group of people standing next to a tree — Image 1: Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Rangers in the Mid Zambezi Valley

Wildlife conservation is crucial for preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. In areas like Hurungwe, Zimbabwe, the fight against poaching is an ongoing battle that requires innovative solutions. As poachers become more advanced in their use of technology, the role of rangers becomes even more critical in the fight against poaching. It's vital to invest in rangers by equipping them with the necessary technological tools and resources to effectively combat these threats.

Hurungwe, in Zimbabwe's Mashonaland West Province, is a breathtaking expanse of wilderness, home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Yet, beneath this natural beauty lies a constant threat: poaching. The rangers of the Mid-Zambezi Valley region, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) under the Global Environment Facility (GEF) 6 Project in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, are the unsung heroes working tirelessly to combat this threat.

For many years, rangers in the Zambezi Valley have been struggling to effectively perform their duties, due to the rugged and challenging terrain, telecommunication network coverage has been a persistent issue for the rangers, who relied on analog radios. The uneven landscape made it difficult for them to receive a stable signal for effective communication during patrols. However, UNDP is spearheading the GEF 6 initiative and has configured a digital radio system covering 40% of the area, with ongoing work in progress to expand network coverage throughout the entire Zambezi Valley. This digital radio system is essential for coordinating patrols, reporting incidents, and requesting backups during emergencies. With integrated Global Positioning System (GPS) functionality, tracking the precise location of rangers has become easier, enhancing their safety, and ensuring that assistance can be sent to their exact location when needed.

Among the rangers in the Zambezi Valley is Tawanda, a seasoned ranger who is protecting the valley’s rich biodiversity. Equipped with a digital radio, he was thrilled to share how the radio system eased his patrol operations, saying "The digital radios we received have greatly improved our operations in many of our protected areas. They enable precise communication about patrol locations, potential threats, and real-time field updates.

a man in a garden — Image 2: Tawanda, the ranger in action

Over the years, rangers often struggled with the collection and management of data regarding wildlife deaths, poaching activities, and habitat conditions, which are critical for effective conservation strategies. Tracking wildlife movements and poacher activities was a challenge in vast and dense ecosystems, leading to difficulties in protecting endangered species. To assist the rangers a Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool (SMART) was introduced, to integrate data from various patrols. This consolidated information helps to plan patrol routes based on historical data and real-time information.

“Rangers are now using SMART to record incidents of poaching, human-wildlife conflict, or illegal activities. Moreover, we are optimistic that the drone technology provided will allow rangers to quickly survey large areas, efficiently spotting poachers and animals in distress." Partmore Ngorima, Principal Ecologist a.i. – Mid Zambezi Valley Region

a man standing on a dry grass field — Image 3: Partmore Ngorima, Principal Ecologist a.i. – Mid Zambezi Valley Region

With limited surveillance and coverage, rangers would often face significant safety risks from encounters with armed poachers and dangerous wildlife. Harsh weather conditions, dense forests, and rugged terrain hinder traditional patrols and make it difficult for rangers to carry out their duties. Through UNDP, two drones were procured with a 35 km radius and 120 meters altitude to cover the entire landscape, and ten rangers in the Mid-Zambezi Valley region were trained to become certified drone pilots. Looking ahead, the drones will allow rangers to monitor large and inaccessible areas efficiently. Additionally, the drones help to quickly identify poachers and animals in distress.

These technologies have significantly improved the work of the rangers and the integration of these technologies creates a robust system for wildlife protection. These systems together, enhance the capability of conservation teams to protect wildlife, respond to threats promptly, and adapt to changing conditions in the field.
Oswald, one of the rangers, is particularly pleased with the use of the digital radio systems. He remarked, "When we are in the field, the only way to know where the other rangers are is through communication. Hence, the radio system is important to us."

UNDP’s support to rangers through the GEF 6 Zambezi Valley Biodiversity Project, aims to strengthen anti-poaching efforts in the mid-to lower Zambezi Region through a multi-faceted approach. At its core, the project focuses on capacitating the rangers, and this partnership has led to significant strides in enhancing the capabilities and morale of the rangers, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges they face.

With the support of advanced technology, the rangers have become more adept at their tasks, fostering a renewed sense of hope for the conservation of Hurungwe’s rich biodiversity. Every patrol, every drone flight, and every radio transmission will contribute to a larger mission: safeguarding the natural heritage of Zimbabwe for future generations.