2025 Wildlife Ranger Challenge Launches to Support Africa’s Frontline Conservation Heroes

As the world sets its sights on the 2030 biodiversity targets, a vital truth emerges: African rangers are far more than just protectors. The continent’s nearly 60,000 rangers are educators, peacekeepers, first responders, and community leaders who bridge conservation and human development. From preventing poaching and protecting carbon-rich landscapes to supporting livelihoods and responding to local crises, their role is essential for both planetary and community resilience.

It’s time we champion them. Their welfare, their advanced training, and their professional recognition aren’t merely important; they are the bedrock upon which the future of conservation will be built.

Nick Bubb, Chief Executive at Tusk, says, “Rangers are much more than guardians of wildlife. They are embedded in their communities, protecting the ecosystems that sustain life, while also responding to emergencies, supporting livelihoods, and fostering peace. The Wildlife Ranger Challenge celebrates their courage and resilience while calling on the global community to invest in their future. Rangers are central to the future of our planet. By running with them, funding them, and telling their stories, we are investing in biodiversity, climate resilience, and community security.”

Also Read: Lewa Lions Dominate the Wildlife Ranger Challenge

The Wildlife Ranger Challenge brings together more than 170 ranger teams across 24 African countries in a multi-month campaign of endurance, teamwork, and global solidarity. The initiative culminates in a synchronised 21 km race on September 20th, with rangers running in full gear, carrying 22 kg backpacks, to demonstrate the physical and mental demands of their daily work on the frontline of conservation.

Organised by Tusk and GRAA, with support from founding donor Mark Scheinberg, the Challenge has grown into the largest annual celebration of Africa’s wildlife rangers, raising over $21 million since its launch in 2020. This year, the spotlight is on rangers as community leaders, not just conservation heroes.

The final days of the Challenge align with the African Ranger Congress, a policy-driven gathering hosted by the Game Rangers’ Association of Africa (GRAA) from September 17 to 21 at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya. While the Challenge builds public and philanthropic momentum through storytelling and solidarity, the Congress brings together advocates focused on professionalisation, fair employment standards, and long-term investment in ranger welfare.

Together, the two events offer a full picture of the ranger movement in Africa, from the emotional and physical demands on individuals to the systemic changes needed for long-term impact.

Louise de Bruin, Chief Executive at the Game Rangers’ Association of Africa, says, “The GRAA is delighted to be an organising partner of the Wildlife Ranger Challenge, an event that shines a global spotlight on the vital and diverse work of rangers. These men and women are not just protectors of wildlife; they are leaders at the frontline of conservation, safeguarding ecosystems, supporting communities, and driving solutions for people and the planet. It is especially fitting to see this year’s Challenge alongside the African Ranger Congress, as together they celebrate rangers while advancing welfare, standards, and professional recognition across the sector. Both events remind us that collaboration is key. Together, we can do more for rangers, for people, and for our planet.”

Supporters from around the world are invited to join the global movement in support of rangers, make a donation, or even run in solidarity with the rangers wherever they are by visiting www.wildliferangerchallenge.org.

Double Your Impact: Support African Wildlife Rangers Today!

Every dollar you donate to the 2025 Wildlife Ranger Challenge will be matched, up to a whopping $1.4 million. This means your contribution goes twice as far in directly supporting the brave men and women on the front lines of conservation across Africa. These vital funds provide essential ranger welfare, cutting-edge training, crucial equipment, comprehensive insurance, and innovative solutions to the challenges they face daily. The 2025 Wildlife Ranger Challenge couldn’t come at a more crucial time. As the world races to achieve the Global Biodiversity Framework’s ambitious 30×30 target, which aims to conserve 30% of the planet’s land and ocean by 2030, it’s the dedicated rangers who will make this vision a reality. They are the human force safeguarding our planet’s precious biodiversity.

Yet, despite their pivotal role, many rangers confront dangerous working conditions, often with inadequate training, insufficient gear, and a lack of proper insurance or support. They put their lives on the line daily to protect our natural heritage.

Witness the Challenge: Race Day Events Across Africa

This year, the Wildlife Ranger Challenge race day is bigger and better than ever, featuring national events in Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, and South Africa! Join us to witness the thrilling race day action firsthand and hear inspiring stories of ranger impact directly from those who live it. From patrolling vital marine zones in Mozambique to rescuing endangered wildlife in Zambia and supporting school children in Uganda, their dedication knows no bounds.

Rachel Sibanda, a ranger at the Great Plains Biodiversity Ranger in Zambezi, highlights the invaluable role of female rangers: “The involvement of female rangers in the Wildlife Ranger Challenge highlights their endurance, survival skills, and physical and mental health. It raises awareness about the critical work they do in protecting the natural world.”

Ezekiel Loserian, a ranger at African People & Wildlife in Tanzania, speaks to the power of teamwork and dedication: “We have trained with commitment and worked hard together, and winning the Wildlife Ranger Challenge has made us proud. It shows what community rangers can achieve with discipline, teamwork, and a strong heart for conservation. This challenge continues to push us forward.”

Join us in supporting these incredible rangers and help them continue their vital work. Your contribution makes a tangible difference in protecting wildlife and securing a healthier planet for all.