RECENT INITIATIVES
Lugaya Training center, Uganda, january 2026
Building on the success of Operation Equip Wildlife Guardians, we returned to Uganda in January 2026 for a powerful second phase of impact. Our team executed a seamless delivery of critically needed ranger equipment to the legendary Kidepo Valley National Park, strengthening the frontline in one of East Africa’s most remote and threatened landscapes.
From there, we traveled southwest to the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s Lugaya Training Academy at Murchison Falls National Park, where we trained rangers, investigators, and prosecutors in wildlife crime scene investigation, GPS land navigation, and arrest and handcuffing procedures.
This mission deepened our partnership with UWA and expanded the skills and tools available to the men and women who stand between wildlife and the threats they face every day.
KWAZULU-NATAL, SOUTH AFRICA, august 2025
In August 2025, we returned to the Wild Tomorrow Conservation Centre in KwaZulu-Natal to deliver the second iteration of Wildlife Crime Scene Investigative Techniques training. Building on the success of our 2024 mission, this program brought together rangers from local private reserves, equipping them with advanced, hands-on skills in evidence collection, preservation, and investigation to strengthen their fight against wildlife crime.
This initiative was made possible through the partnership and support of Wild Tomorrow and the dedication of participating rangers. Together, we are building a stronger network of conservation professionals committed to protecting Africa’s endangered species and critical habitats.
Photography credits: Chantelle Melzer
Uganda, February 2025
We recently concluded Operation Equip Wildlife Guardians—an extraordinary initiative that took to six of ten national parks across Uganda to aid the rangers that tirelessly protect the country's wildlife. In partnership with the Uganda Wildlife Authority, this project provided vital equipment and training to rangers stationed in several national parks.
This project would not have been possible without our donors, to whom we'd like to extend a huge THANK YOU--your generosity fueled this mission! Thanks to you, UWA rangers in six national parks received range finders, audio recorders, Nikon binoculars, Canon cameras, flashlights, hydration backpacks, and rain gear.
Uganda Wildlife Authority Headquarters
Uganda Wildlife Authority Headquarters
Uganda Wildlife Authority Headquarters
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Uganda Wildlife Authority Headquarters
Uganda Wildlife Authority Headquarters
Murchison Falls National Park
Uganda Wildlife Authority Headquarters
Murchison Falls National Park
Kibale National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Murchison Falls National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Lake Mburo National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
KWAZULU-NATAL, SOUTH AFRICA, OCTOBER 2024
In October 2024, we collaborated with our partner Wild Tomorrow to empower KwaZulu-Natal's conservation heroes with the knowledge and tools they need to tackle poaching. We were honored to provide vital equipment and training in wildlife crime scene investigative techniques to Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife rangers and South African Police Service detectives. These dedicated individuals are on a mission to protect Africa’s beloved wildlife and critical habitat.
Photography credits: Chantelle Melzer
Wildlife Defense is registered in the United States as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, meaning all or a portion of your donation (as indicated on your receipt) may be tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law, EIN 93-4900332
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